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Cao L, Yang X, Li Y, Yang Y, Liu Q, Bottini M, Jin Y, Wang B, Zhang J, Liang XJ. Near-Infrared Light-Activatable DNA Tentacles for Efficient Inhibition of Tumor Metastasis by Bio-Orthogonal Cell Assembly. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 38937261 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis remains a major challenge in cancer management. Among various treatment strategies, immune cell-based cancer therapy holds a great potential for inhibiting metastasis. However, its wide application in cancer therapy is restricted by complex preparations, as well as inadequate homing and controllability. Herein, we present a groundbreaking approach for bioorthogonally manipulating tumor-NK (natural killer) cell assembly to inhibit tumor metastasis. Multiple dibenzocyclootyne (DBCO) groups decorated long single-stranded DNA were tail-modified on core-shell upconversion nanoparticles (CSUCNPs) and condensed by photosensitive chemical linker (PC-Linker) DNA to shield most of the DBCO groups. On the one hand, the light-triggered DNA scaffolds formed a cross-linked network by click chemistry, effectively impeding tumor cell migration. On the other hand, the efficient cellular assembly facilitated the effective communication between tumor cells and NK-92 cells, leading to enhanced immune response against tumors and further suppression of tumor metastasis. These features make our strategy highly applicable to a wide range of metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhi Cao
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Xinjian Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Yimei Li
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Qiulin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Massimo Bottini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
- Sanford Burnham Prebys, La Jolla,California 92037, United States
| | - Yi Jin
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis Mechanism and Control of Inflammatory-autoimmune Diseases of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Bei Wang
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis Mechanism and Control of Inflammatory-autoimmune Diseases of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Jinchao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of Hebei Province, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, PR China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Center for Excellence in Nanoscience and CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, PR China
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2
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Kuznetsova AV, Glukhova XA, Popova OP, Beletsky IP, Ivanov AA. Contemporary Approaches to Immunotherapy of Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2270. [PMID: 38927974 PMCID: PMC11201544 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the arrival of the immunotherapy industry has introduced the possibility of providing transformative, durable, and potentially curative outcomes for various forms of malignancies. However, further research has shown that there are a number of issues that significantly reduce the effectiveness of immunotherapy, especially in solid tumors. First of all, these problems are related to the protective mechanisms of the tumor and its microenvironment. Currently, major efforts are focused on overcoming protective mechanisms by using different adoptive cell therapy variants and modifications of genetically engineered constructs. In addition, a complex workforce is required to develop and implement these treatments. To overcome these significant challenges, innovative strategies and approaches are necessary to engineer more powerful variations of immunotherapy with improved antitumor activity and decreased toxicity. In this review, we discuss recent innovations in immunotherapy aimed at improving clinical efficacy in solid tumors, as well as strategies to overcome the limitations of various immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alla V. Kuznetsova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Xenia A. Glukhova
- Onni Biotechnologies Ltd., Aalto University Campus, Metallimiehenkuja 10, 02150 Espoo, Finland; (X.A.G.); (I.P.B.)
| | - Olga P. Popova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
| | - Igor P. Beletsky
- Onni Biotechnologies Ltd., Aalto University Campus, Metallimiehenkuja 10, 02150 Espoo, Finland; (X.A.G.); (I.P.B.)
| | - Alexey A. Ivanov
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
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3
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Xie X, Zhai J, Zhou X, Guo Z, Lo PC, Zhu G, Chan KWY, Yang M. Magnetic Particle Imaging: From Tracer Design to Biomedical Applications in Vasculature Abnormality. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2306450. [PMID: 37812831 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is an emerging non-invasive tomographic technique based on the response of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to oscillating drive fields at the center of a static magnetic gradient. In contrast to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which is driven by uniform magnetic fields and projects the anatomic information of the subjects, MPI directly tracks and quantifies MNPs in vivo without background signals. Moreover, it does not require radioactive tracers and has no limitations on imaging depth. This article first introduces the basic principles of MPI and important features of MNPs for imaging sensitivity, spatial resolution, and targeted biodistribution. The latest research aiming to optimize the performance of MPI tracers is reviewed based on their material composition, physical properties, and surface modifications. While the unique advantages of MPI have led to a series of promising biomedical applications, recent development of MPI in investigating vascular abnormalities in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, and cancer are also discussed. Finally, recent progress and challenges in the clinical translation of MPI are discussed to provide possible directions for future research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xulin Xie
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Jiao Zhai
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhengjun Guo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Pui-Chi Lo
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Guangyu Zhu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Kannie W Y Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Mengsu Yang
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
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4
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Balzasch BM, Cerwenka A. Microenvironmental signals shaping NK-cell reactivity in cancer. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250103. [PMID: 37194594 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the postulation of the "missing-self" concept, much progress has been made in defining requirements for NK-cell activation. Unlike T lymphocytes that process signals from receptors in a hierarchic manner dominated by the T-cell receptors, NK cells integrate receptor signals more "democratically." Signals originate not only the downstream of cell-surface receptors triggered by membrane-bound ligands or cytokines, but are also mediated by specialized microenvironmental sensors that perceive the cellular surrounding by detecting metabolites or the availability of oxygen. Thus, NK-cell effector functions are driven in an organ and disease-dependent manner. Here, we review the latest findings on how NK-cell reactivity in cancer is determined by the reception and integration of complex signals. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to guide novel combinatorial approaches for NK-cell-based anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca M Balzasch
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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5
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Hibler W, Merlino G, Yu Y. CAR NK Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma: Potential & Prospects. Cells 2023; 12:2750. [PMID: 38067178 PMCID: PMC10706172 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232750] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is among the most lethal forms of cancer, accounting for 80% of deaths despite comprising just 5% of skin cancer cases. Treatment options remain limited due to the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms associated with melanoma heterogeneity that underlie the rapid development of secondary drug resistance. For this reason, the development of novel treatments remains paramount to the improvement of patient outcomes. Although the advent of chimeric antigen receptor-expressing T (CAR-T) cell immunotherapies has led to many clinical successes for hematological malignancies, these treatments are limited in their utility by their immune-induced side effects and a high risk of systemic toxicities. CAR natural killer (CAR-NK) cell immunotherapies are a particularly promising alternative to CAR-T cell immunotherapies, as they offer a more favorable safety profile and have the capacity for fine-tuned cytotoxic activity. In this review, the discussion of the prospects and potential of CAR-NK cell immunotherapies touches upon the clinical contexts of melanoma, the immunobiology of NK cells, the immunosuppressive barriers preventing endogenous immune cells from eliminating tumors, and the structure and design of chimeric antigen receptors, then finishes with a series of proposed design innovations that could improve the efficacy CAR-NK cell immunotherapies in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yanlin Yu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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6
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Kitamura T. Tumour-associated macrophages as a potential target to improve natural killer cell-based immunotherapies. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:1003-1014. [PMID: 37313600 PMCID: PMC10539946 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230002] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells has been proposed as a novel immunotherapy for malignant tumours resistant to current therapeutic modalities. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that the NK cell-infusion is well tolerated without severe side effects and shows promising results in haematological malignancies. However, patients with malignant solid tumours do not show significant responses to this therapy. Such disappointing results largely arise from the inefficient delivery of infused NK cells and the impairment of their functions in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant stromal cells in the TME of most solid tumours, and a high TAM density correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Although our knowledge of the interactions between TAMs and NK cells is limited, many studies have indicated that TAMs suppress NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Therefore, blockade of TAM functions can be an attractive strategy to improve NK cell-based immunotherapies. On the other hand, macrophages are reported to activate NK cells under certain circumstances. This essay presents our current knowledge about mechanisms by which macrophages regulate NK cell functions and discusses possible therapeutic approaches to block macrophage-mediated NK cell suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Kitamura
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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7
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Wu C, Zhong Q, Shrestha R, Wang J, Hu X, Li H, Rouchka EC, Yan J, Ding C. Reactive myelopoiesis and FX-expressing macrophages triggered by chemotherapy promote cancer lung metastasis. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e167499. [PMID: 36976637 PMCID: PMC10243818 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.167499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that certain cytotoxic drugs enhance metastasis, but the importance of host responses triggered by chemotherapy in regulating cancer metastasis has not been fully explored. Here, we showed that multidose gemcitabine (GEM) treatment promoted breast cancer lung metastasis in a transgenic spontaneous breast cancer model. GEM treatment significantly increased accumulation of CCR2+ macrophages and monocytes in the lungs of tumor-bearing as well as tumor-free mice. These changes were largely caused by chemotherapy-induced reactive myelopoiesis biased toward monocyte development. Mechanistically, enhanced production of mitochondrial ROS was observed in GEM-treated BM Lin-Sca1+c-Kit+ cells and monocytes. Treatment with the mitochondria targeted antioxidant abrogated GEM-induced hyperdifferentiation of BM progenitors. In addition, GEM treatment induced upregulation of host cell-derived CCL2, and knockout of CCR2 signaling abrogated the pro-metastatic host response induced by chemotherapy. Furthermore, chemotherapy treatment resulted in the upregulation of coagulation factor X (FX) in lung interstitial macrophages. Targeting activated FX (FXa) using FXa inhibitor or F10 gene knockdown reduced the pro-metastatic effect of chemotherapy. Together, these studies suggest a potentially novel mechanism for chemotherapy-induced metastasis via the host response-induced accumulation of monocytes/macrophages and interplay between coagulation and inflammation in the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caijun Wu
- UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center and
| | | | - Rejeena Shrestha
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | | | | | - Hong Li
- UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center and
| | - Eric C. Rouchka
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Louisville J.B. Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jun Yan
- UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center and
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Immunotherapy, UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Chuanlin Ding
- UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center and
- Department of Surgery, Division of Immunotherapy, UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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8
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Zhu L, Yu X, Cao T, Deng H, Tang X, Lin Q, Zhou Q. Immune cell membrane-based biomimetic nanomedicine for treating cancer metastasis. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
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9
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The pro-tumorigenic responses in metastatic niches: an immunological perspective. CLINICAL & TRANSLATIONAL ONCOLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF SPANISH ONCOLOGY SOCIETIES AND OF THE NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF MEXICO 2023; 25:333-344. [PMID: 36136272 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02950-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is the leading cause of mortality related to cancer. In the course of metastasis, cancer cells detach from the primary tumor, enter the circulation, extravasate at secondary sites, and colonize there. All of these steps are rate limiting and decrease the efficiency of metastasis. Prior to their arrival, tumor cells can modify the secondary sites. These favorable microenvironments increase the probability of successful dissemination and are referred to as pre-metastatic niches. Cancer cells use different mechanisms to induce and maintain these niches, among which immune cells play prominent roles. The immune system, including innate and adaptive, enhances recruitment, extravasation, and colonization of tumor cells at distant sites. In addition to immune cells, stromal cells can also contribute to forming pre-metastatic niches. This review summarizes the pro-metastatic responses conducted by immune cells and the assistance of stromal cells and endothelial cells in the induction of pre-metastatic niches.
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10
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Zhang X, Bai W, Hu L, Ha H, Du Y, Xiong W, Wang H, Shang P. The pleiotropic mode and molecular mechanism of macrophages in promoting tumor progression and metastasis. CLINICAL & TRANSLATIONAL ONCOLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF SPANISH ONCOLOGY SOCIETIES AND OF THE NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF MEXICO 2023; 25:91-104. [PMID: 36071369 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02932-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are the most abundant immune cells in primary and metastatic tumor tissues. Studies have shown that macrophages mainly exhibit a tumor-promoting phenotype and play a key role in tumor progression and metastasis. Therefore, many macrophage-targeted drugs have entered clinical trials. However, compared to preclinical studies, some clinical trial results showed that macrophage-targeted therapy did not achieve the desired effect. This may be because most of what we know about macrophages comes from in vitro experiments and animal models, while macrophages in the more complex human microenvironment are still poorly understood. With the development of technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, we have gained a new understanding of the origin, classification and functional mechanism of tumor-associated macrophages. Therefore, this study reviewed the recent progress of macrophages in promoting tumor progression and metastasis, aiming to provide some help for the formulation of optimal strategies for macrophage-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Zhang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Wenxiu Bai
- Ultrasonic Special Examination Department, Tai An TSCM Hospital, Taian, 271000, Shandong, China
| | - Lisha Hu
- Ultrasonic Special Examination Department, Tai An TSCM Hospital, Taian, 271000, Shandong, China
| | - Hualan Ha
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Yuelin Du
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Hongbo Wang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Panfeng Shang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, Gansu Nephro-Urological Clinical Center, Key Laboratory of Urological Diseases in Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, Gansu, China.
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11
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Turk S, Baesmat AS, Yılmaz A, Turk C, Malkan UY, Ucar G, Haznedaroğlu IC. NK-cell dysfunction of acute myeloid leukemia in relation to the renin–angiotensin system and neurotransmitter genes. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:1495-1506. [PMID: 36213442 PMCID: PMC9490854 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0551] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most heterogeneous hematological disorder and blast cells need to fight against immune system. Natural killer (NK) cells can elicit fast anti-tumor responses in response to surface receptors of tumor cells. NK-cell activity is often impaired in the disease, and there is a risk of insufficient tumor suppression and progression. The aim of this study is to assess the dysfunction of NK cells in AML patients via focusing on two important pathways. We obtained single-cell RNA-sequencing data from NK cells obtained from healthy donors and AML patients. The data were used to perform a wide variety of approaches, including DESeq2 (version 3.9), limma (version 3.26.8) power differential expression analyses, hierarchical clustering, gene set enrichment, and pathway analysis. ATP6AP2, LNPEP, PREP, IGF2R, CTSA, and THOP1 genes were found to be related to the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) family, while DPP3, GLRA3, CRCP, CHRNA5, CHRNE, and CHRNB1 genes were associated with the neurotransmitter pathways. The determined genes are expressed within different patterns in the AML and healthy groups. The relevant molecular pathways and clusters of genes were identified, as well. The cross-talks of NK-cell dysfunction in relation to the RAS and neurotransmitters seem to be important in the genesis of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyhan Turk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
| | - Ayriana Safari Baesmat
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Yılmaz
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
| | - Can Turk
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
| | - Umit Yavuz Malkan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
| | - Gulberk Ucar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, 06105, Turkey
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12
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Seliger B, Koehl U. Underlying mechanisms of evasion from NK cells as rational for improvement of NK cell-based immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:910595. [PMID: 36045670 PMCID: PMC9422402 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.910595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells belong to the family of innate immune cells with the capacity to recognize and kill tumor cells. Different phenotypes and functional properties of NK cells have been described in tumor patients, which could be shaped by the tumor microenvironment. The discovery of HLA class I-specific inhibitory receptors controlling NK cell activity paved the way to the fundamental concept of modulating immune responses that are regulated by an array of inhibitory receptors, and emphasized the importance to explore the potential of NK cells in cancer therapy. Although a whole range of NK cell-based approaches are currently being developed, there are still major challenges that need to be overcome for improved efficacy of these therapies. These include escape of tumor cells from NK cell recognition due to their expression of inhibitory molecules, immune suppressive signals of NK cells, reduced NK cell infiltration of tumors, an immune suppressive micromilieu and limited in vivo persistence of NK cells. Therefore, this review provides an overview about the NK cell biology, alterations of NK cell activities, changes in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment contributing to immune escape or immune surveillance by NK cells and their underlying molecular mechanisms as well as the current status and novel aspects of NK cell-based therapeutic strategies including their genetic engineering and their combination with conventional treatment options to overcome tumor-mediated evasion strategies and improve therapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Barbara Seliger,
| | - Ulrike Koehl
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Cellular Therapeutics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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13
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Franklin M, Connolly E, Hussell T. Recruited and Tissue-Resident Natural Killer Cells in the Lung During Infection and Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:887503. [PMID: 35844626 PMCID: PMC9284027 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.887503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are an important component of the innate immune system, and have a key role in host defense against infection and in tumor surveillance. Tumors and viruses employ remarkably similar strategies to avoid recognition and killing by NK cells and so much can be learnt by comparing NK cells in these disparate diseases. The lung is a unique tissue environment and immune cells in this organ, including NK cells, exist in a hypofunctional state to prevent activation against innocuous stimuli. Upon infection, rapid NK cell infiltration into the lung occurs, the amplitude of which is determined by the extent of inflammation and damage. Activated NK cells kill infected cells and produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines to recruit cells of the adaptive immune system. More recent evidence has shown that NK cells also play an additional role in resolution of inflammation. In lung cancer however, NK cell recruitment is impaired and those that are present have reduced functionality. The majority of lung NK cells are circulatory, however recently a small population of tissue-resident lung NK cells has been described. The specific role of this subset is yet to be determined, but they show similarity to resident memory T cell subsets. Whether resident or recruited, NK cells are important in the control of pulmonary infections, but equally, can drive excessive inflammation if not regulated. In this review we discuss how NK cells are recruited, controlled and retained in the specific environment of the lung in health and disease. Understanding these mechanisms in the context of infection may provide opportunities to promote NK cell recruitment and function in the lung tumor setting.
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Tajaldini M, Saeedi M, Amiriani T, Amiriani AH, Sedighi S, Mohammad Zadeh F, Dehghan M, Jahanshahi M, Zanjan Ghandian M, Khalili P, Poorkhani AH, Alizadeh AM, Khori V. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs); where do they stand in tumorigenesis and how they can change the face of cancer therapy? Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 928:175087. [PMID: 35679891 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) and its components have recently attracted tremendous attention in cancer treatment strategies, as alongside the genetic and epigenetic alterations in tumor cells, TME could also provide a fertile background for malignant cells to survive and proliferate. Interestingly, TME plays a vital role in the mediation of cancer metastasis and drug resistance even against immunotherapeutic agents. Among different cells that are presenting in TME, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have shown to have significant value in the regulation of angiogenesis, tumor metastasis, and drug-resistance through manipulating the composition as well as the organization of extracellular matrix (ECM). Evidence has shown that the presence of both TAMs and CAFs in TME is associated with poor prognosis and failure of chemotherapeutic agents. It seems that these cells together with ECM form a shield around tumor cells to protect them from the toxic agents and even the adaptive arm of the immune system, which is responsible for tumor surveillance. Given this, targeting TAMs and CAFs seems to be an essential approach to potentiate the cytotoxic effects of anti-cancer agents, either conventional chemotherapeutic drugs or immunotherapies. In the present review, we aimed to take a deep look at the mechanobiology of CAFs and TAMs in tumor progression and to discuss the available therapeutic approaches for harnessing these cells in TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Tajaldini
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Saeedi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Taghi Amiriani
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Amiriani
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Sima Sedighi
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammad Zadeh
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Dehghan
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Jahanshahi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Maziar Zanjan Ghandian
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Pedram Khalili
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | - Ali Mohammad Alizadeh
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Khori
- Ischemic Disorder Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
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Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines in the Context of NK Cell-Trophoblast Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042387. [PMID: 35216502 PMCID: PMC8878424 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, uterine NK cells interact with trophoblast cells. In addition to contact interactions, uterine NK cells are influenced by cytokines, which are secreted by the cells of the decidua microenvironment. Cytokines can affect the phenotypic characteristics of NK cells and change their functional activity. An imbalance of pro- and anti-inflammatory signals can lead to the development of reproductive pathology. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of cytokines on NK cells in the presence of trophoblast cells in an in vitro model. We used TNFα, IFNγ, TGFβ and IL-10; the NK-92 cell line; and peripheral blood NK cells (pNKs) from healthy, non-pregnant women. For trophoblast cells, the JEG-3 cell line was used. In the monoculture of NK-92 cells, TNFα caused a decrease in CD56 expression. In the coculture of NK cells with JEG-3 cells, TNFα increased the expression of NKG2C and NKG2A by NK-92 cells. Under the influence of TGFβ, the expression of CD56 increased and the expression of NKp30 decreased in the monoculture. After the preliminary cultivation of NK-92 cells in the presence of TGFβ, their cytotoxicity increased. In the case of adding TGFβ to the PBMC culture, as well as coculturing PBMCs and JEG-3 cells, the expression of CD56 and NKp44 by pNK cells was reduced. The differences in the effects of TGFβ in the model using NK-92 cells and pNK cells may be associated with the possible influence of monocytes or other lymphoid cells from the mononuclear fraction.
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Tumor Microenvironment and Hydrogel-Based 3D Cancer Models for In Vitro Testing Immunotherapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041013. [PMID: 35205760 PMCID: PMC8870468 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies are emerging as promising strategies to cure cancer and extend patients’ survival. Efforts should be focused, however, on the development of preclinical tools better able to predict the therapeutic benefits in individual patients. In this context, the availability of reliable preclinical models capable of recapitulating the tumor milieu while overcoming the limitations of traditional systems is mandatory. Here, we review the tumor immune responses, escape mechanisms, and the most recent 3D biomaterial-based cancer in vitro models useful for investigating the effects of the different immunotherapeutic approaches. The main challenges and possible future trends are also discussed. Abstract In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. In a relevant percentage of patients, however, clinical benefits are lower than expected, pushing researchers to deeply analyze the immune responses against tumors and find more reliable and efficient tools to predict the individual response to therapy. Novel tissue engineering strategies can be adopted to realize in vitro fully humanized matrix-based models, as a compromise between standard two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and animal tests, which are costly and hardly usable in personalized medicine. In this review, we describe the main mechanisms allowing cancer cells to escape the immune surveillance, which may play a significant role in the failure of immunotherapies. In particular, we discuss the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the establishment of a milieu that greatly favors cancer malignant progression and impact on the interactions with immune cells. Then, we present an overview of the recent in vitro engineered preclinical three-dimensional (3D) models that have been adopted to resemble the interplays between cancer and immune cells and for testing current therapies and immunotherapeutic approaches. Specifically, we focus on 3D hydrogel-based tools based on different types of polymers, discussing the suitability of each of them in reproducing the TME key features based on their intrinsic or tunable characteristics. Finally, we introduce the possibility to combine the 3D models with technological fluid dynamics platforms, reproducing the dynamic complex interactions between tumor cells and immune effectors migrated in situ via the systemic circulation, pointing out the challenges that still have to be overcome for setting more predictive preclinical assays.
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Russo E, Laffranchi M, Tomaipitinca L, Del Prete A, Santoni A, Sozzani S, Bernardini G. NK Cell Anti-Tumor Surveillance in a Myeloid Cell-Shaped Environment. Front Immunol 2022; 12:787116. [PMID: 34975880 PMCID: PMC8718597 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.787116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells are innate lymphoid cells endowed with cytotoxic capacity that play key roles in the immune surveillance of tumors. Increasing evidence indicates that NK cell anti-tumor response is shaped by bidirectional interactions with myeloid cell subsets such as dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages. DC-NK cell crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment (TME) strongly impacts on the overall NK cell anti-tumor response as DCs can affect NK cell survival and optimal activation while, in turn, NK cells can stimulate DCs survival, maturation and tumor infiltration through the release of soluble factors. Similarly, macrophages can either shape NK cell differentiation and function by expressing activating receptor ligands and/or cytokines, or they can contribute to the establishment of an immune-suppressive microenvironment through the expression and secretion of molecules that ultimately lead to NK cell inhibition. Consequently, the exploitation of NK cell interaction with DCs or macrophages in the tumor context may result in an improvement of efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Laffranchi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luana Tomaipitinca
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Del Prete
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rozzano, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuromed, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Silvano Sozzani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuromed, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernardini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Teo KYW, Sevencan C, Cheow YA, Zhang S, Leong DT, Toh WS. Macrophage Polarization as a Facile Strategy to Enhance Efficacy of Macrophage Membrane‐Coated Nanoparticles in Osteoarthritis. SMALL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/smsc.202100116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kristeen Ye Wen Teo
- Faculty of Dentistry National University Centre for Oral Health National University of Singapore 9 Lower Kent Ridge Road, #10-01 Singapore 119085 Singapore
| | - Cansu Sevencan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Faculty of Engineering National University of Singapore 4 Engineering Drive 4 Singapore 117585 Singapore
| | - Yi Ann Cheow
- Faculty of Dentistry National University Centre for Oral Health National University of Singapore 9 Lower Kent Ridge Road, #10-01 Singapore 119085 Singapore
| | - Shipin Zhang
- Faculty of Dentistry National University Centre for Oral Health National University of Singapore 9 Lower Kent Ridge Road, #10-01 Singapore 119085 Singapore
| | - David Tai Leong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Faculty of Engineering National University of Singapore 4 Engineering Drive 4 Singapore 117585 Singapore
- Integrative Sciences and Engineering Program NUS Graduate School National University of Singapore 21 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119077 Singapore
| | - Wei Seong Toh
- Faculty of Dentistry National University Centre for Oral Health National University of Singapore 9 Lower Kent Ridge Road, #10-01 Singapore 119085 Singapore
- Integrative Sciences and Engineering Program NUS Graduate School National University of Singapore 21 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119077 Singapore
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine National University of Singapore NUHS Tower Block Level 11, 1E Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119288 Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Faculty of Engineering National University of Singapore 4 Engineering Drive 3 Block 4, #04-08 Singapore 117583 Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program Life Sciences Institute National University of Singapore 28 Medical Drive Singapore 117456 Singapore
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Reis-Sobreiro M, Teixeira da Mota A, Jardim C, Serre K. Bringing Macrophages to the Frontline against Cancer: Current Immunotherapies Targeting Macrophages. Cells 2021; 10:2364. [PMID: 34572013 PMCID: PMC8464913 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092364] [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: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are found in all tissues and display outstanding functional diversity. From embryo to birth and throughout adult life, they play critical roles in development, homeostasis, tissue repair, immunity, and, importantly, in the control of cancer growth. In this review, we will briefly detail the multi-functional, protumoral, and antitumoral roles of macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Our objective is to focus on the ever-growing therapeutic opportunities, with promising preclinical and clinical results developed in recent years, to modulate the contribution of macrophages in oncologic diseases. While the majority of cancer immunotherapies target T cells, we believe that macrophages have a promising therapeutic potential as tumoricidal effectors and in mobilizing their surroundings towards antitumor immunity to efficiently limit cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karine Serre
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.R.-S.); (A.T.d.M.); (C.J.)
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20
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Fuertes MB, Domaica CI, Zwirner NW. Leveraging NKG2D Ligands in Immuno-Oncology. Front Immunol 2021; 12:713158. [PMID: 34394116 PMCID: PMC8358801 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.713158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) revolutionized the field of immuno-oncology and opened new avenues towards the development of novel assets to achieve durable immune control of cancer. Yet, the presence of tumor immune evasion mechanisms represents a challenge for the development of efficient treatment options. Therefore, combination therapies are taking the center of the stage in immuno-oncology. Such combination therapies should boost anti-tumor immune responses and/or target tumor immune escape mechanisms, especially those created by major players in the tumor microenvironment (TME) such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). Natural killer (NK) cells were recently positioned at the forefront of many immunotherapy strategies, and several new approaches are being designed to fully exploit NK cell antitumor potential. One of the most relevant NK cell-activating receptors is NKG2D, a receptor that recognizes 8 different NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL), including MICA and MICB. MICA and MICB are poorly expressed on normal cells but become upregulated on the surface of damaged, transformed or infected cells as a result of post-transcriptional or post-translational mechanisms and intracellular pathways. Their engagement of NKG2D triggers NK cell effector functions. Also, MICA/B are polymorphic and such polymorphism affects functional responses through regulation of their cell-surface expression, intracellular trafficking, shedding of soluble immunosuppressive isoforms, or the affinity of NKG2D interaction. Although immunotherapeutic approaches that target the NKG2D-NKG2DL axis are under investigation, several tumor immune escape mechanisms account for reduced cell surface expression of NKG2DL and contribute to tumor immune escape. Also, NKG2DL polymorphism determines functional NKG2D-dependent responses, thus representing an additional challenge for leveraging NKG2DL in immuno-oncology. In this review, we discuss strategies to boost MICA/B expression and/or inhibit their shedding and propose that combination strategies that target MICA/B with antibodies and strategies aimed at promoting their upregulation on tumor cells or at reprograming TAM into pro-inflammatory macrophages and remodeling of the TME, emerge as frontrunners in immuno-oncology because they may unleash the antitumor effector functions of NK cells and cytotoxic CD8 T cells (CTL). Pursuing several of these pipelines might lead to innovative modalities of immunotherapy for the treatment of a wide range of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Beatriz Fuertes
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Inés Domaica
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norberto Walter Zwirner
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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