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Qu Y, Zeng A, Cheng Y, Li S. Natural killer cell memory: challenges and opportunities for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2376410. [PMID: 38987282 PMCID: PMC11238922 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2376410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Substantial advancements have been made in recent years in comprehending immune memory, which enhances the secondary response through prior infections. The ability of vertebrate T and B lymphocytes to exhibit classic recall responses has long been regarded as a distinguishing characteristic. However, natural killer (NK) cells have been found to acquire immunological memory in a manner akin to T and B cells. The fundamental principles derived from the investigation of NK cell memory offer novel insights into innate immunity and have the potential to pave the way for innovative strategies to enhance therapeutic interventions against multiple diseases including cancer. Here, we reviewed the fundamental characteristics, memory development and regulatory mechanism of NK cell memory. Moreover, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the accomplishments, obstacles, and future direction pertaining to the utilization of NK cell memory in the field of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Qu
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Anhui Zeng
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yulu Cheng
- Department of Disinfection Supply Center, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shengchun Li
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Zang J, Mei Y, Zhu S, Yin S, Feng N, Ci T, Lyu Y. Natural Killer-Based Therapy: A Prospective Thought for Cancer Treatment Related to Diversified Drug Delivery Pathways. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:939. [PMID: 39065636 PMCID: PMC11279587 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070939] [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: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been a research hotspot due to its low side effects, long-lasting efficacy, and wide anti-tumor spectrum. Recently, NK cell-based immunotherapy has gained broad attention for its unique immunological character of tumor identification and eradication and low risk of graft-versus-host disease and cytokine storm. With the cooperation of a drug delivery system (DDS), NK cells activate tumoricidal activity by adjusting the balance of the activating and inhibitory signals on their surface after drug-loaded DDS administration. Moreover, NK cells or NK-derived exosomes can also be applied as drug carriers for distinct modification to promote NK activation and exert anti-tumor effects. In this review, we first introduce the source and classification of NK cells and describe the common activating and inhibitory receptors on their surface. Then, we summarize the strategies for activating NK cells in vivo through various DDSs. Finally, the application prospects of NK cells in tumor immunotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yijun Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Shiguo Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Shaoping Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine External Medication Development and Application, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China;
| | - Nianping Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Tianyuan Ci
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yaqi Lyu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
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3
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Surov A, Wienke A, Gutzmer R, Borggrefe J. Prognostic role of the skeletal musculature in oncology: significance, coherences and clinical implications. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2024; 196:699-706. [PMID: 38134902 DOI: 10.1055/a-2213-2320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Surov
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling Medical Center, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Andreas Wienke
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Informatics, Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Ralf Gutzmer
- Department of Dermatology, Johannes Wesling Medical Center, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Borggrefe
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling Medical Center, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
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Ballesteros-Ribelles A, Millán-López A, Carmona-Luque MD, Herrera C. Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor-Mobilized Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: An Alternative Cellular Source for Chimeric Antigen Receptor Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5769. [PMID: 38891957 PMCID: PMC11171785 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphocyte collection by apheresis for CAR-T production usually does not include blood mobilized using granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) due to the widespread knowledge that it causes a decrease in the number and functionality of lymphocytes. However, it is used for stem cell transplant, which is a common treatment for hematological malignancies. The growing demand for CAR therapies (CAR-T and NK-CAR), both in research and clinics, makes it necessary to evaluate whether mobilized PBSC products may be potential candidates for use in such therapies. This review collects recent works that experimentally verify the role and functionality of T and NK lymphocytes and the generation of CAR-T from apheresis after G-CSF mobilization. As discussed, T cells do not vary significantly in their phenotype, the ratio of CD4+ and CD8+ remains constant, and the different sub-populations remain stable. In addition, the expansion and proliferation rates are invariant regardless of mobilization with G-CSF as well as the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and the cytotoxic ability. Therefore, cells mobilized before apheresis are postulated as a new alternative source of T cells for adoptive therapies that will serve to alleviate high demand, increase availability, and take advantage of the substantial number of existing cryopreserved products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alejandro Millán-López
- Cell Therapy Group, Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.B.-R.); (A.M.-L.)
| | - MDolores Carmona-Luque
- Cell Therapy Group, Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.B.-R.); (A.M.-L.)
| | - Concha Herrera
- Cell Therapy Group, Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.B.-R.); (A.M.-L.)
- Department of Hematology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
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Zengarini C, Guglielmo A, Mussi M, Motta G, Agostinelli C, Sabattini E, Piraccini BM, Pileri A. A Narrative Review of the State of the Art of CCR4-Based Therapies in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas: Focus on Mogamulizumab and Future Treatments. Antibodies (Basel) 2024; 13:32. [PMID: 38804300 PMCID: PMC11130839 DOI: 10.3390/antib13020032] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The CCR4 receptor is a pivotal target in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) therapy due to its role in impairing immune responses against malignant T-cells and expression profiles. Monoclonal antibodies like mogamulizumab effectively bind to CCR4, reducing tumour burden and enhancing patient outcomes by inhibiting the receptor's interaction with ligands, thereby hindering malignant T-cell migration and survival. Combining CCR4 antibodies with chemotherapy, radiation, and other drugs is being explored for synergistic effects. Additionally, small-molecular inhibitors, old pharmacological agents interacting with CCR4, and CAR-T therapies are under investigation. Challenges include drug resistance, off-target effects, and patient selection, addressed through ongoing trials refining protocols and identifying biomarkers. Despite advancements, real-life data for most of the emerging treatments are needed to temper expectations. In conclusion, CCR4-targeted therapies show promise for CTCL management, but challenges persist. Continued research aims to optimise treatments, enhance outcomes, and transform CTCL management. This review aims to elucidate the biological rationale and the several agents under various stages of development and clinical evaluation with the actual known data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Zengarini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Alba Guglielmo
- Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Institute of Dermatology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Martina Mussi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanna Motta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Division of Haematopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Agostinelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Division of Haematopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Sabattini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Division of Haematopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Bianca Maria Piraccini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pileri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.Z.)
- Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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Awad RM, De Vlaeminck Y, Meeus F, Ertveldt T, Zeven K, Ceuppens H, Goyvaerts C, Verdonck M, Salguero G, Raes G, Devoogdt N, Breckpot K. In vitro modelling of local gene therapy with IL-15/IL-15Rα and a PD-L1 antagonist in melanoma reveals an interplay between NK cells and CD4 + T cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18995. [PMID: 37923822 PMCID: PMC10624833 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45948-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Blockade of the immune checkpoint axis consisting of programmed death-1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 alleviates the functional inhibition of tumor-infiltrating lymphoid cells yet weakly induces their expansion. Exogenous cytokines could further expand lymphoid cells and thus synergize with αPD-L1 therapy. However, systemic delivery of most cytokines causes severe toxicity due to unspecific expansion of immune cells in the periphery. Here, we modelled local delivery of cytokines and αPD-L1 therapeutics to immune cell-containing in vitro melanoma tumors. Three-dimensional tumor models consisting of 624-MEL cells were co-cultured with human peripheral blood lymphoid cells (PBLs) in presence of the cytokines IL-2, IL-7, IL-15, IL-21 and IFN-γ. To model local gene therapy, melanoma tumors were modified with lentiviral vectors encoding IL-15 fused to IL-15Rα (IL-15/IL-15Rα) and K2-Fc, a fusion of a human PD-L1 specific single domain antibody to immunoglobulin (Ig)G1 Fc. To evaluate the interplay between PBL fractions, NK cells, CD4+ T cells or CD8+ T cells were depleted. Tumor cell killing was followed up using real time imaging and immune cell expansion and activation was evaluated with flow cytometry. Among the tested cytokines, IL-15 was the most potent cytokine in stimulating tumor cell killing and expanding both natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells. Gene-based delivery of IL-15/IL-15Rα to tumor cells, shows expansion of NK cells, activation of NK cells, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and killing of tumor spheroids. Both NK cells and CD8+ T cells are necessary for tumor cell killing and CD4+ T-cell activation was reduced without NK cells. Co-delivery of K2-Fc improved tumor cell killing coinciding with increased activation of NK cells, which was independent of bystander T cells. CD4+ or CD8+ T cells were not affected by the co-delivery of K2-Fc even though NK-cell activation impacted CD4+ T-cell activation. This study demonstrates that gene-based delivery of IL-15/IL-15Rα to tumor cells effectively mediates anti-tumor activity and sensitizes the tumor microenvironment for therapy with αPD-L1 therapeutics mainly by impacting NK cells. These findings warrant further investigation of gene-based IL-15 and K2-Fc delivery in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Maximilian Awad
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katty Zeven
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Magali Verdonck
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gustavo Salguero
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud-IDCBIS, 111611, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Myeloid Cell Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology and Cancer Immunotherapy, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMWE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Benavente MCR, Hughes HB, Kremer PG, Subedi GP, Barb AW. Inhibiting N-glycan processing increases the antibody binding affinity and effector function of human natural killer cells. Immunology 2023; 170:202-213. [PMID: 37218360 PMCID: PMC10524233 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel approaches are required to improve the efficacy of immunotherapies and increase the proportion of patients who experience a benefit. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) contributes to the efficacy of many monoclonal antibodies therapies. Natural killer (NK) cells mediate ADCC, though responses are highly variable and depend on prior treatment as well as other factors. Thus, strategies to increase NK cell activity are expected to improve multiple therapies. Both cytokine treatment and NK cell receptor engineering are being explored to increase ADCC. Post-translational modifications, including glycosylation, are widely recognized as mediators of cellular processes but minimally explored as an alternative strategy to increase ADCC. We evaluated the impact of treatment with kifunensine, an inhibitor of asparagine-linked (N-)glycan processing, on ADCC using primary and cultured human NK cells. We also probed affinity using binding assays and CD16a structure with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Treating primary human NK cells and cultured YTS-CD16a cells with kifunensine doubled ADCC in a CD16a-dependent manner. Kifunensine treatment also increased the antibody-binding affinity of CD16a on the NK cell surface. Structural interrogation identified a single CD16a region, proximal to the N162 glycan and the antibody-binding interface, perturbed by the N-glycan composition. The observed increase in NK cell activity following kifunensine treatment synergized with afucosylated antibodies, further increasing ADCC by an additional 33%. These results demonstrate native N-glycan processing is an important factor that limits NK cell ADCC. Furthermore, optimal antibody and CD16a glycoforms are defined that provide the greatest ADCC activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harrison B. Hughes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Paul G. Kremer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Ganesh P. Subedi
- Roy J Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
| | - Adam W. Barb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Roy J Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
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Ahmed K, Jha S. Oncoviruses: How do they hijack their host and current treatment regimes. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188960. [PMID: 37507056 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188960] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Viruses have the ability to modulate the cellular machinery of their host to ensure their survival. While humans encounter numerous viruses daily, only a select few can lead to disease progression. Some of these viruses can amplify cancer-related traits, particularly when coupled with factors like immunosuppression and co-carcinogens. The global burden of cancer development resulting from viral infections is approximately 12%, and it arises as an unfortunate consequence of persistent infections that cause chronic inflammation, genomic instability from viral genome integration, and dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes and host oncogenes involved in normal cell growth. This review provides an in-depth discussion of oncoviruses and their strategies for hijacking the host's cellular machinery to induce cancer. It delves into how viral oncogenes drive tumorigenesis by targeting key cell signaling pathways. Additionally, the review discusses current therapeutic approaches that have been approved or are undergoing clinical trials to combat malignancies induced by oncoviruses. Understanding the intricate interactions between viruses and host cells can lead to the development of more effective treatments for virus-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kainat Ahmed
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Sudhakar Jha
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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Su H, Geng H, Cai L, Xu M, Xing W, Long W, Liu B, Li Y, Liu B. Immune-check blocking combination multiple cytokines shown curative potential in mice tumor model. Cancer Med 2023; 12:13573-13585. [PMID: 37199371 PMCID: PMC10315798 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In order to ensure the stable transcription of target genes, we constructed a eukaryotic high expression vector carrying an immune-check inhibitor PD-1v and a variety of cytokines, and studied their effects on activating immune response to inhibit tumor growth. METHODS A novel eukaryotic expression plasmid vector named pT7AMPCE containing T7RNA polymerase, T7 promoter, internal ribosome entry site (IRES), and poly A tailing signal was constructed by T4 DNA ligase, on which homologous recombination was used to clone and construct the vector carrying PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, GM-CSF, and GFP. In vitro transfection of CT26 cells was performed, and the protein expression of PD-1v, IL-12 and GM-CSF was detected by Western blot and ELISA after 48 h. Mice were subcutaneously inoculated with CT26-IRFP tumor cells in the rib abdomen, and the tumor tissues were injected with PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF recombinant plasmids for treatment during the experimental period. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated by assay tumor size and survival time of tumor-bearing mice during the experiment. Expression levels of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-4, IL-2, and IL-5 in mouse blood were measured using the CBA method. Tumor tissues were extracted and immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues was detected by HE staining and the IHC method. RESULTS The recombinant plasmids carrying PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF were successfully constructed, and the Western blot and ELISA results showed that PD-1v, IL-12, and GM-CSF were expressed in the supernatant of CT26 cells 48 h after in vitro cell transfection. The combined application of PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF recombinant plasmids significantly inhibited tumor growth in mice, and the tumor growth rate was significantly lower than that in the blank control group and GFP plasmid control group (p < 0.05). Cytometric bead array data suggested that the combination of PD-1v and various cytokines can effectively activate immune cells. HE and IHC analysis revealed plenty of immune cell infiltrates in the tumor tissue, and a large proportion of tumor cells showed the necrotic phenotype in the combination treatment group. CONCLUSION The combination of immune check blockade and multiple cytokine therapy can significantly activate the body's immune response and inhibit tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Su
- School of PharmacyHubei University of Science and TechnologycXianningChina
| | - Hui Geng
- School of Life ScienceHuazhong Normal UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Linkang Cai
- Wuhan Binhui Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.WuhanChina
| | - Minjie Xu
- School of Life ScienceHuazhong Normal UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Wenpin Xing
- School of Life ScienceHuazhong Normal UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Wei Long
- Wuhan Binhui Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.WuhanChina
| | - Biao Liu
- Hubei University of TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yankun Li
- School of PharmacyHubei University of Science and TechnologycXianningChina
| | - Binlei Liu
- Wuhan Binhui Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.WuhanChina
- Hubei University of TechnologyWuhanChina
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Chouljenko DV, Murad YM, Lee IF, Delwar Z, Ding J, Liu G, Liu X, Bu X, Sun Y, Samudio I, Jia WWG. Targeting carcinoembryonic antigen-expressing tumors using a novel transcriptional and translational dual-regulated oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2023; 28:334-348. [PMID: 36938544 PMCID: PMC10018392 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
VG2025 is a recombinant oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) that uses transcriptional and translational dual regulation (TTDR) of critical viral genes to enhance virus safety and promote tumor-specific virus replication without reducing virulence. The TTDR platform is based on transcriptional control of the essential HSV-1 immediate-early protein ICP27 using a tumor-specific carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) promoter, coupled with translational control of the neurovirulence factor ICP34.5 using multiple microRNA (miR)-binding sites. VG2025 further incorporates IL-12 and the IL-15/IL-15 receptor alpha subunit complex to enhance the antitumor and immune stimulatory properties of oncolytic HSVs. The TTDR strategy was verified in vitro and shown to be highly selective. Strong in vivo antitumor efficacy was observed following both intratumoral and intravenous administration. Clear abscopal and immune memory effects were also evident, indicating a robust antitumor immune response. Gene expression profiling of treated tumors revealed increased immune cell infiltration and activation of multiple immune-signaling pathways when compared with the backbone virus. Absence of neurotoxicity was verified in mice and in rhesus monkeys. Taken together, the enhanced tumor clearance, excellent safety profile, and positive correlation between CEA levels and viral replication efficiency may provide an opportunity for using biomarker-based precision medicine in oncolytic virotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry V. Chouljenko
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
- Corresponding author: Dmitry V. Chouljenko, Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada.
| | - Yanal M. Murad
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - I-Fang Lee
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Zahid Delwar
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Jun Ding
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Guoyu Liu
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Xiaohu Liu
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Xuexian Bu
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Yi Sun
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - Ismael Samudio
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
| | - William Wei-Guo Jia
- Virogin Biotech Canada Ltd., 150-13511 Commerce Parkway, Richmond, BC V6V 2J8, Canada
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Casado-Fernández G, Corona M, Torres M, Saez AJ, Ramos-Martín F, Manzanares M, Vigón L, Mateos E, Pozo F, Casas I, García-Gutierrez V, Rodríguez-Mora S, Coiras M. Sustained Cytotoxic Response of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Unvaccinated Individuals Admitted to the ICU Due to Critical COVID-19 Is Essential to Avoid a Fatal Outcome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1947. [PMID: 36767310 PMCID: PMC9915056 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to determine the influence of the cytotoxic activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) on the outcome of unvaccinated individuals with critical COVID-19 admitted to the ICU. Blood samples from 23 individuals were collected upon admission and then every 2 weeks for 13 weeks until death (Exitus group) (n = 13) or discharge (Survival group) (n = 10). We did not find significant differences between groups in sociodemographic, clinical, or biochemical data that may influence the fatal outcome. However, direct cellular cytotoxicity of PBMCs from individuals of the Exitus group against pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2-infected Vero E6 cells was significantly reduced upon admission (-2.69-fold; p = 0.0234) and after 4 weeks at the ICU (-5.58-fold; p = 0.0290), in comparison with individuals who survived, and it did not improve during hospitalization. In vitro treatment with IL-15 of these cells did not restore an effective cytotoxicity at any time point until the fatal outcome, and an increased expression of immune exhaustion markers was observed in NKT, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells. However, IL-15 treatment of PBMCs from individuals of the Survival group significantly increased cytotoxicity at Week 4 (6.18-fold; p = 0.0303). Consequently, immunomodulatory treatments that may overcome immune exhaustion and induce sustained, efficient cytotoxic activity could be essential for survival during hospitalization due to critical COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiomar Casado-Fernández
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Magdalena Corona
- Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Madrid, Spain
- Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Torres
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Adolfo J. Saez
- Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Ramos-Martín
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Manzanares
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Vigón
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Mateos
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Pozo
- Respiratory Viruses Service, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Casas
- Respiratory Viruses Service, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentín García-Gutierrez
- Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Rodríguez-Mora
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mayte Coiras
- Immunopathology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Yang K, Zhao Y, Sun G, Zhang X, Cao J, Shao M, Liang X, Wang L. Clinical application and prospect of immune checkpoint inhibitors for CAR-NK cell in tumor immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1081546. [PMID: 36741400 PMCID: PMC9892943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1081546] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering of natural killer (NK) cells is an attractive research field in tumor immunotherapy. While CAR is genetically engineered to express certain molecules, it retains the intrinsic ability to recognize tumor cells through its own receptors. Additionally, NK cells do not depend on T cell receptors for cytotoxic killing. CAR-NK cells exhibit some differences to CAR-T cells in terms of more precise killing, numerous cell sources, and increased effectiveness in solid tumors. However, some problems still exist with CAR-NK cell therapy, such as cytotoxicity, low transfection efficiency, and storage issues. Immune checkpoints inhibit immune cells from performing their normal killing function, and the clinical application of immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer treatment has become a key therapeutic strategy. The application of CAR-T cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors is being evaluated in numerous ongoing basic research and clinical studies. Immune checkpoints may affect the function of CAR-NK cell therapy. In this review, we describe the combination of existing CAR-NK cell technology with immune checkpoint therapy and discuss the research of CAR-NK cell technology and future clinical treatments. We also summarize the progress of clinical trials of CAR-NK cells and immune checkpoint therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangdi Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuze Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanqun Sun
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinjin Cao
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingcong Shao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xijun Liang
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
| | - Lina Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
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13
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Sindaco P, Pandey H, Isabelle C, Chakravarti N, Brammer JE, Porcu P, Mishra A. The role of interleukin-15 in the development and treatment of hematological malignancies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1141208. [PMID: 37153603 PMCID: PMC10157481 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1141208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are a vital component of the immune system that controls the activation and growth of blood cells. However, chronic overexpression of cytokines can trigger cellular events leading to malignant transformation. The cytokine interleukin-15 (IL-15) is of particular interest, which has been shown to contribute to the development and progression of various hematological malignancies. This review will provide an overview of the impact of the immunopathogenic function of IL-15 by studying its role in cell survival, proliferation, inflammation, and treatment resistance. We will also review therapeutic approaches for inhibiting IL-15 in blood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Sindaco
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hritisha Pandey
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Colleen Isabelle
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Nitin Chakravarti
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Pierluigi Porcu
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Anjali Mishra
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Anjali Mishra,
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14
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Yaping W, Zhe W, Zhuling C, Ruolei L, Pengyu F, Lili G, Cheng J, Bo Z, Liuyin L, Guangdong H, Yaoling W, Niuniu H, Rui L. The soldiers needed to be awakened: Tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Front Genet 2022; 13:988703. [PMID: 36246629 PMCID: PMC9558824 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.988703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment, tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) are a key component. Different types of TIICs play distinct roles. CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells could secrete soluble factors to hinder tumor cell growth, whereas regulatory T cells (Tregs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) release inhibitory factors to promote tumor growth and progression. In the meantime, a growing body of evidence illustrates that the balance between pro- and anti-tumor responses of TIICs is associated with the prognosis in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, in order to boost anti-tumor response and improve the clinical outcome of tumor patients, a variety of anti-tumor strategies for targeting TIICs based on their respective functions have been developed and obtained good treatment benefits, including mainly immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), adoptive cell therapies (ACT), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, and various monoclonal antibodies. In recent years, the tumor-specific features of immune cells are further investigated by various methods, such as using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and the results indicate that these cells have diverse phenotypes in different types of tumors and emerge inconsistent therapeutic responses. Hence, we concluded the recent advances in tumor-infiltrating immune cells, including functions, prognostic values, and various immunotherapy strategies for each immune cell in different tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Yaping
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wang Zhe
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chu Zhuling
- Department of General Surgery, Eastern Theater Air Force Hospital of PLA, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Ruolei
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fan Pengyu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Guo Lili
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ji Cheng
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhang Bo
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Liu Liuyin
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hou Guangdong
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wang Yaoling
- Department of Geriatrics, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hou Niuniu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of General Surgery, Eastern Theater Air Force Hospital of PLA, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Hou Niuniu, ; Ling Rui,
| | - Ling Rui
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hou Niuniu, ; Ling Rui,
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15
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Sánchez Martínez D, Tirado N, Mensurado S, Martínez-Moreno A, Romecín P, Gutiérrez Agüera F, Correia DV, Silva-Santos B, Menéndez P. Generation and proof-of-concept for allogeneic CD123 CAR-Delta One T (DOT) cells in acute myeloid leukemia. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005400. [PMID: 36162920 PMCID: PMC9516293 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005400] [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] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have emerged as a breakthrough treatment for relapse/refractory hematological tumors, showing impressive complete remission rates. However, around 50% of the patients relapse before 1-year post-treatment. T-cell ‘fitness’ is critical to prolong CAR-T persistence and activity. Allogeneic T cells from healthy donors are less dysfunctional or exhausted than autologous patient-derived T cells; in this context, Delta One T cells (DOTs), a recently described cellular product based on MHC/HLA-independent Vδ1+γδ T cells, represent a promising allogeneic platform. Methods Here we generated and preclinically validated, for the first time, 4-1BB-based CAR-DOTs directed against the interleukin-3α chain receptor (CD123), a target antigen widely expressed on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blasts. Results CD123CAR-DOTs showed vigorous, superior to control DOTs, cytotoxicity against AML cell lines and primary samples both in vitro and in vivo, even on tumor rechallenge. Conclusions Our results provide the proof-of-concept for a DOT-based next-generation allogeneic CAR-T therapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Sánchez Martínez
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain .,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029)
| | - Néstor Tirado
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029)
| | - Sofia Mensurado
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alba Martínez-Moreno
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029)
| | - Paola Romecín
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029)
| | - Francisco Gutiérrez Agüera
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029)
| | - Daniel V Correia
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Silva-Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pablo Menéndez
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain .,Red Española de Terapias Avanzadas (TERAV) - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCII) (RICORS, RD21/0017/0029).,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Oncología (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Coënon L, Villalba M. From CD16a Biology to Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity Improvement. Front Immunol 2022; 13:913215. [PMID: 35720368 PMCID: PMC9203678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.913215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) is a potent cytotoxic mechanism that is mainly mediated in humans by natural killer (NK) cells. ADCC mediates the clinical benefit of several widely used cytolytic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), and increasing its efficacy would improve cancer immunotherapy. CD16a is a receptor for the Fc portion of IgGs and is responsible to trigger NK cell-mediated ADCC. The knowledge of the mechanism of action of CD16a gave rise to several strategies to improve ADCC, by working on either the mAbs or the NK cell. In this review, we give an overview of CD16a biology and describe the latest strategies employed to improve antibody-dependent NK cell cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loïs Coënon
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy (IRMB), Univ Montpellier, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), Montpellier, France
- Institut du Cancer Avignon-Provence Sainte Catherine, Avignon, France
- *Correspondence: Loïs Coënon,
| | - Martin Villalba
- Institut du Cancer Avignon-Provence Sainte Catherine, Avignon, France
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy, Univ Montpellier, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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17
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Rebhun RB, York D, Cruz SM, Judge SJ, Razmara AM, Farley LE, Brady RV, Johnson EG, Burton JH, Willcox J, Wittenburg LA, Woolard K, Dunai C, Stewart SL, Sparger EE, Withers SS, Gingrich AA, Skorupski KA, Al-Nadaf S, LeJeune AT, Culp WT, Murphy WJ, Kent MS, Canter RJ. Inhaled recombinant human IL-15 in dogs with naturally occurring pulmonary metastases from osteosarcoma or melanoma: a phase 1 study of clinical activity and correlates of response. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004493. [PMID: 35680383 PMCID: PMC9174838 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although recombinant human interleukin-15 (rhIL-15) has generated much excitement as an immunotherapeutic agent for cancer, activity in human clinical trials has been modest to date, in part due to the risks of toxicity with significant dose escalation. Since pulmonary metastases are a major site of distant failure in human and dog cancers, we sought to investigate inhaled rhIL-15 in dogs with naturally occurring lung metastases from osteosarcoma (OSA) or melanoma. We hypothesized a favorable benefit/risk profile given the concentrated delivery to the lungs with decreased systemic exposure. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We performed a phase I trial of inhaled rhIL-15 in dogs with gross pulmonary metastases using a traditional 3+3 cohort design. A starting dose of 10 µg twice daily × 14 days was used based on human, non-human primate, and murine studies. Safety, dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) were the primary objectives, while response rates, progression-free and overall survival (OS), and pharmacokinetic and immune correlative analyses were secondary. RESULTS From October 2018 to December 2020, we enrolled 21 dogs with 18 dogs reaching the 28-day response assessment to be evaluable. At dose level 5 (70 μg), we observed two DLTs, thereby establishing 50 µg twice daily × 14 days as the MTD and recommended phase 2 dose. Among 18 evaluable dogs, we observed one complete response >1 year, one partial response with resolution of multiple target lesions, and five stable disease for an overall clinical benefit rate of 39%. Plasma rhIL-15 quantitation revealed detectable and sustained rhIL-15 concentrations between 1-hour and 6 hour postnebulization. Decreased pretreatment lymphocyte counts were significantly associated with clinical benefit. Cytotoxicity assays of banked peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed significant increases in peak cytotoxicity against canine melanoma and OSA targets that correlated with OS. CONCLUSIONS In this first-in-dog clinical trial of inhaled rhIL-15 in dogs with advanced metastatic disease, we observed promising clinical activity when administered as a monotherapy for only 14 days. These data have significant clinical and biological implications for both dogs and humans with refractory lung metastases and support exploration of combinatorial therapies using inhaled rhIL-15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Rebhun
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Daniel York
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sylvia Margret Cruz
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Sean J Judge
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Aryana M Razmara
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Lauren E Farley
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Rachel V Brady
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Eric G Johnson
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Jenna H Burton
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Jennifer Willcox
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Luke A Wittenburg
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kevin Woolard
- Department of Pathology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Cordelia Dunai
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Susan L Stewart
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Ellen E Sparger
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sita S Withers
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Alicia A Gingrich
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Katherine A Skorupski
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sami Al-Nadaf
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Amandine T LeJeune
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - William Tn Culp
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - William J Murphy
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Michael S Kent
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Robert J Canter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California, Davis, California, USA
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18
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Corvino D, Kumar A, Bald T. Plasticity of NK cells in Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:888313. [PMID: 35619715 PMCID: PMC9127295 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.888313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial to various facets of human immunity and function through direct cytotoxicity or via orchestration of the broader immune response. NK cells exist across a wide range of functional and phenotypic identities. Murine and human studies have revealed that NK cells possess substantial plasticity and can alter their function and phenotype in response to external signals. NK cells also play a critical role in tumor immunity and form the basis for many emerging immunotherapeutic approaches. NK cells can directly target and lyse malignant cells with their inherent cytotoxic capabilities. In addition to direct targeting of malignant cells, certain subsets of NK cells can mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) which is integral to some forms of immune checkpoint-blockade immunotherapy. Another important feature of various NK cell subsets is to co-ordinate anti-tumor immune responses by recruiting adaptive and innate leukocytes. However, given the diverse range of NK cell identities it is unsurprising that both pro-tumoral and anti-tumoral NK cell subsets have been described. Here, NK cell subsets have been shown to promote angiogenesis, drive inflammation and immune evasion in the tumor microenvironment. To date, the signals that drive tumor-infiltrating NK cells towards the acquisition of a pro- or anti-tumoral function are poorly understood. The notion of tumor microenvironment-driven NK cell plasticity has substantial implications for the development of NK-based immunotherapeutics. This review will highlight the current knowledge of NK cell plasticity pertaining to the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, this review will pose critical and relevant questions that need to be addressed by the field in coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon Corvino
- Tumor-Immunobiology, Institute for Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ananthi Kumar
- Tumor-Immunobiology, Institute for Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias Bald
- Tumor-Immunobiology, Institute for Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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19
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Peng Y, Fu S, Zhao Q. 2022 update on the scientific premise and clinical trials for IL-15 agonists as cancer immunotherapy. J Leukoc Biol 2022; 112:823-834. [PMID: 35616357 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5mr0422-506r] [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: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse cytokines and their receptors on immune cells constitute a highly complex network in the immune system. Some therapeutic cytokines and their derivatives have been approved for cancer treatment. IL-15 is an immune-regulating cytokine with multiple functions, among which the function of activating the immunity of cancer patients has great potential in cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we introduce the functions of IL-15 and discuss its role in regulating the immune system in different immune cells. Meanwhile, we will address the applications of IL-15 agonists in cancer immunotherapy and provide prospects for the next generation of therapeutic designs. Although many challenges remain, IL-15 agonists offer a new therapeutic option in the future direction of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Peng
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Shengyu Fu
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.,MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
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Dunai C, Ames E, Ochoa MC, Fernandez-Sendin M, Melero I, Simonetta F, Baker J, Alvarez M. Killers on the loose: Immunotherapeutic strategies to improve NK cell-based therapy for cancer treatment. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 370:65-122. [PMID: 35798507 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that control tumor progression by not only directly killing cancer cells, but also by regulating other immune cells, helping to orchestrate a coordinated anti-tumor response. However, despite the tremendous potential that this cell type has, the clinical results obtained from diverse NK cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies have been, until recent years, rather modest. The intrinsic regulatory mechanisms that are involved in the control of their activation as well as the multiple mechanisms that tumor cells have developed to escape NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity likely account for the unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. The current approaches to improve long-term NK cell function are centered on modulating different molecules involved in both the activation and inhibition of NK cells, and the latest data seems to advocate for combining strategies that target multiple aspects of NK cell regulation. In this review, we summarize the different strategies (such as engineered NK cells, CAR-NK, NK cell immune engagers) that are currently being used to take advantage of this potent and complex immune cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordelia Dunai
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Erik Ames
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Maria C Ochoa
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Myriam Fernandez-Sendin
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Federico Simonetta
- Division of Hematology, Department of Oncology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Translational Research Centre in Onco-Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jeanette Baker
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Maite Alvarez
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain.
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21
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Chen W, Bamford RN, Edmondson EF, Waldmann TA. IL15 and Anti-PD-1 Augment the Efficacy of Agonistic Intratumoral Anti-CD40 in a Mouse Model with Multiple TRAMP-C2 Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:2082-2093. [PMID: 35262675 PMCID: PMC10569074 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-0496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE IL15 promotes activation and maintenance of natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T effector memory cells making it a potential immunotherapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer. However, monotherapy with IL15 was ineffective in patients with cancer, indicating that it would have to be used in combination with other anticancer agents. The administration of high doses of common gamma chain cytokines, such as IL15, is associated with the generation of "helpless" antigen-nonspecific CD8 T cells. The generation of the tumor-specific cytotoxic T cells can be mediated by CD40 signaling via agonistic anti-CD40 antibodies. Nevertheless, parenteral administration of anti-CD40 antibodies is associated with unacceptable side effects, such as thrombocytopenia and hepatic toxicity, which can be avoided by intratumoral administration. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We investigated the combination of IL15 with an intratumoral anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (mAb) in a dual tumor TRAMP-C2 murine prostate cancer model and expanded the regimen to include an anti-PD-1 mAb. RESULTS Here we demonstrated that anti-CD40 given intratumorally not only showed significant antitumor activity in treated tumors, but also noninjected contralateral tumors, indicative of abscopal efficacy. The combination of IL15 with intratumoral anti-CD40 showed an additive immune response with an increase in the number of tumor-specific tetramer-positive CD8 T cells. Furthermore, the addition of anti-PD-1 further improved efficacy mediated by the anti-CD40/IL15 combination. CONCLUSIONS These studies support the initiation of a clinical trial in patients with cancer using IL15 in association with the checkpoint inhibitor, anti-PD-1, and intratumoral optimized anti-CD40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Elijah F. Edmondson
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Thomas A. Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
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22
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Interleukin-15 augments NK cell-mediated ADCC of alemtuzumab in patients with CD52+ T-cell malignancies. Blood Adv 2022; 7:384-394. [PMID: 35475910 PMCID: PMC9898617 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2021006440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) monotherapy substantially increases the number and activity of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells but has not produced clinical responses. In a xenograft mouse model, IL-15 enhanced the NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC) of the anti-CD52 antibody alemtuzumab and led to significantly more durable responses than alemtuzumab alone. To evaluate whether IL-15 potentiates ADCC in humans, we conducted a phase 1 single-center study of recombinant human IL-15 and alemtuzumab in patients with CD52-positive mature T-cell malignances. We gave IL-15 subcutaneously 5 days per week for 2 weeks in a 3 + 3 dose escalation scheme (at 0.5, 1, and 2 μg/kg), followed by standard 3 times weekly alemtuzumab IV for 4 weeks. There were no dose-limiting toxicities or severe adverse events attributable to IL-15 in the 11 patients treated. The most common adverse events were lymphopenia (100%), alemtuzumab-related infusion reactions (90%), anemia (90%), and neutropenia (72%). There were 3 partial and 2 complete responses, with an overall response rate of 45% and median duration of response 6 months. Immediately after 10 days of IL-15, there was a median 7.2-fold increase in NK cells and 2.5-fold increase in circulating CD8+ T cells, whereas the number of circulating leukemic cells decreased by a median 38% across all dose levels. Treatment with IL-15 was associated with increased expression of NKp46 and NKG2D, markers of NK-cell activation, and increased ex vivo ADCC activity of NK cells, whereas inhibitory receptors PD1 and Tim3 were decreased. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02689453.
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23
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da Silva LHR, Catharino LCC, da Silva VJ, Evangelista GCM, Barbuto JAM. The War Is on: The Immune System against Glioblastoma—How Can NK Cells Drive This Battle? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020400. [PMID: 35203609 PMCID: PMC8962431 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that play an important role in immunosurveillance, acting alongside other immune cells in the response against various types of malignant tumors and the prevention of metastasis. Since their discovery in the 1970s, they have been thoroughly studied for their capacity to kill neoplastic cells without the need for previous sensitization, executing rapid and robust cytotoxic activity, but also helper functions. In agreement with this, NK cells are being exploited in many ways to treat cancer. The broad arsenal of NK-based therapies includes adoptive transfer of in vitro expanded and activated cells, genetically engineered cells to contain chimeric antigen receptors (CAR-NKs), in vivo stimulation of NK cells (by cytokine therapy, checkpoint blockade therapies, etc.), and tumor-specific antibody-guided NK cells, among others. In this article, we review pivotal aspects of NK cells’ biology and their contribution to immune responses against tumors, as well as providing a wide perspective on the many antineoplastic strategies using NK cells. Finally, we also discuss those approaches that have the potential to control glioblastoma—a disease that, currently, causes inevitable death, usually in a short time after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Henrique Rodrigues da Silva
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508000, Brazil; (L.H.R.d.S.); (L.C.C.C.); (V.J.d.S.); (G.C.M.E.)
| | - Luana Correia Croda Catharino
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508000, Brazil; (L.H.R.d.S.); (L.C.C.C.); (V.J.d.S.); (G.C.M.E.)
| | - Viviane Jennifer da Silva
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508000, Brazil; (L.H.R.d.S.); (L.C.C.C.); (V.J.d.S.); (G.C.M.E.)
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Targeted Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Departamento de Hematologia, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 0124690, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Coeli Menezes Evangelista
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508000, Brazil; (L.H.R.d.S.); (L.C.C.C.); (V.J.d.S.); (G.C.M.E.)
| | - José Alexandre Marzagão Barbuto
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508000, Brazil; (L.H.R.d.S.); (L.C.C.C.); (V.J.d.S.); (G.C.M.E.)
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Targeted Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Departamento de Hematologia, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 0124690, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-11-3091-7375
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24
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Hangasky JA, Chen W, Dubois SP, Daenthanasanmak A, Müller JR, Reid R, Waldmann TA, Santi DV. A very long-acting IL-15: implications for the immunotherapy of cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004104. [PMID: 35101947 PMCID: PMC8804710 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is an important cytokine necessary for proliferation and maintenance of natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells, and with great promise as an immuno-oncology therapeutic. However, IL-15 has a very short half-life and a single administration does not provide the sustained exposure required for optimal stimulation of target immune cells. The purpose of this work was to develop a very long-acting prodrug that would maintain IL-15 within a narrow therapeutic window for long periods-similar to a continuous infusion. METHODS We prepared and characterized hydrogel microspheres (MS) covalently attached to IL-15 (MS~IL-15) by a releasable linker. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of MS~IL-15 were determined in C57BL/6J mice. The antitumor activity of MS~IL-15 as a single agent, and in combination with a suitable therapeutic antibody, was tested in a CD8+ T cell-driven bilateral transgenic adenocarcinoma mouse prostate (TRAMP)-C2 model of prostatic cancer and a NK cell-driven mouse xenograft model of human ATL (MET-1) murine model of adult T-cell leukemia. RESULTS On subcutaneous administration to mice, the cytokine released from the depot maintained a long half-life of about 168 hours over the first 5 days, followed by an abrupt decrease to about ~30 hours in accordance with the development of a cytokine sink. A single injection of MS~IL-15 caused remarkably prolonged expansions of NK and ɣδ T cells for 2 weeks, and CD44hiCD8+ T cells for 4 weeks. In the NK cell-driven MET-1 murine model of adult T-cell leukemia, single-agent MS~IL-1550 μg or anti-CCR4 provided modest increases in survival, but a combination-through antibody-depedent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC)-significantly extended survival. In a CD8+ T cell-driven bilateral TRAMP-C2 model of prostatic cancer, single agent subcutaneous MS~IL-15 or unilateral intratumoral agonistic anti-CD40 showed modest growth inhibition, but the combination exhibited potent, prolonged bilateral antitumor activity. CONCLUSIONS Our results show MS~IL-15 provides a very long-acting IL-15 with low Cmax that elicits prolonged expansion of target immune cells and high anticancer activity, especially when administered in combination with a suitable immuno-oncology agent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei Chen
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sigrid P Dubois
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anusara Daenthanasanmak
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jürgen R Müller
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ralph Reid
- ProLynx Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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25
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Nandi M, Moyo MM, Orkhis S, Mobulakani JMF, Limoges MA, Rexhepi F, Mayhue M, Cayarga AA, Marrero GC, Ilangumaran S, Menendez A, Ramanathan S. IL-15Rα-Independent IL-15 Signaling in Non-NK Cell-Derived IFNγ Driven Control of Listeria monocytogenes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:793918. [PMID: 34956227 PMCID: PMC8703170 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.793918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15, produced by hematopoietic and parenchymal cells, maintains immune cell homeostasis and facilitates activation of lymphoid and myeloid cell subsets. IL-15 interacts with the ligand-binding receptor chain IL-15Rα during biosynthesis, and the IL-15:IL-15Rα complex is trans-presented to responder cells that express the IL-2/15Rβγc complex to initiate signaling. IL-15-deficient and IL-15Rα-deficient mice display similar alterations in immune cell subsets. Thus, the trimeric IL-15Rαβγc complex is considered the functional IL-15 receptor. However, studies on the pathogenic role of IL-15 in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases indicate that IL-15 can signal independently of IL-15Rα via the IL-15Rβγc dimer. Here, we compared the ability of mice lacking IL-15 (no signaling) or IL-15Rα (partial/distinct signaling) to control Listeria monocytogenes infection. We show that IL-15-deficient mice succumb to infection whereas IL-15Rα-deficient mice clear the pathogen as efficiently as wildtype mice. IL-15-deficient macrophages did not show any defect in bacterial uptake or iNOS expression in vitro. In vivo, IL-15 deficiency impaired the accumulation of inflammatory monocytes in infected spleens without affecting chemokine and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. The inability of IL-15-deficient mice to clear L. monocytogenes results from impaired early IFNγ production, which was not affected in IL-15Rα-deficient mice. Administration of IFNγ partially enabled IL-15-deficient mice to control the infection. Bone marrow chimeras revealed that IL-15 needed for early bacterial control can originate from both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells. Overall, our findings indicate that IL-15-dependent IL-15Rα-independent signaling via the IL-15Rβγc dimeric complex is necessary and sufficient for the induction of IFNγ from sources other than NK/NKT cells to control bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhuparna Nandi
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mitterrand Muamba Moyo
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sakina Orkhis
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | | | - Marc-André Limoges
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Fjolla Rexhepi
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Marian Mayhue
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Anny Armas Cayarga
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Gisela Cofino Marrero
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Subburaj Ilangumaran
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Alfredo Menendez
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sheela Ramanathan
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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26
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In Memoriam-Thomas Alexander Waldmann, M.D. J Clin Immunol 2021. [PMID: 34735678 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-021-01167-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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27
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Yoshie O. CCR4 as a Therapeutic Target for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215542. [PMID: 34771703 PMCID: PMC8583476 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary CCR4 is a chemokine receptor selectively expressed on normal T cell subsets such as type 2 helper T cells, skin-homing T cells and regulatory T cells, and on skin-associated T cell malignancies such as adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), which is etiologically associated with human T lymphocyte virus type 1 (HTLV-1), and cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCLs). Mogamulizumab is a fully humanized and glyco-engineered monoclonal anti-CCR4 antibody used for the treatment of refractory/relapsed ATLL and CTCLs, often resulting in complete remission. The clinical applications of Mogamulizumab are now being extended to solid tumors, exploring the therapeutic effect of regulatory T cell depletion. This review overviews the expression of CCR4 in various T cell subsets, HTLV-1-infected T cells, ATLL and CTCLs, and the clinical applications of Mogamulizumab. Abstract CCR4 is a chemokine receptor mainly expressed by T cells. It is the receptor for two CC chemokine ligands, CCL17 and CCL22. Originally, the expression of CCR4 was described as highly selective for helper T type 2 (Th2) cells. Later, its expression was extended to other T cell subsets such as regulatory T (Treg) cells and Th17 cells. CCR4 has long been regarded as a potential therapeutic target for allergic diseases such as atopic dermatitis and bronchial asthma. Furthermore, the findings showing that CCR4 is strongly expressed by T cell malignancies such as adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) and cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCLs) have led to the development and clinical application of the fully humanized and glyco-engineered monoclonal anti-CCR4 Mogamulizumab in refractory/relapsed ATLL and CTCLs with remarkable successes. However, Mogamulizumab often induces severe adverse events in the skin possibly because of its efficient depletion of Treg cells. In particular, treatment with Mogamulizumab prior to allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), the only curative option of these T cell malignancies, often leads to severe glucocorticoid-refractory graft-versus-host diseases. The efficient depletion of Treg cells by Mogamulizumab has also led to its clinical trials in advanced solid tumors singly or in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The main focus of this review is CCR4; its expression on normal and malignant T cells and its significance as a therapeutic target in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Yoshie
- Health and Kampo Institute, Sendai 981-3205, Japan;
- Kindai University, Osaka 577-8502, Japan
- Aoinosono-Sendai Izumi Long-Term Health Care Facility, Sendai 981-3126, Japan
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28
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Isolation and Characterization Methods of Human Invariant NKT Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 34524663 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1775-5_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKT) are abundant in the hepatic sinuses and account for about 20-50% of rat liver lymphocytes. Type I or invariant NKT cells (iNKT) exert a powerful pro-inflammatory effect when activated, while type II NKT cells are more heterogeneous and mainly play an immunomodulatory role. Here we mainly introduced the isolation and characterization methods of human invariant NKT cells. Through immunomagnetic beads and flow cytometry, iNKT cells can be isolated specifically, and that explains functional analysis can be further established.
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29
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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: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [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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