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Bullock KK, Richmond A. Beyond Anti-PD-1/PD-L1: Improving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Responses in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2189. [PMID: 38927895 PMCID: PMC11201651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122189] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The introduction of anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (anti-PD-1) to the clinical management of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a breakthrough for a disease whose treatment has long relied on the standards of chemotherapy and surgery. Nevertheless, few TNBC patients achieve a durable remission in response to anti-PD-1, and there is a need to develop strategies to maximize the potential benefit of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) for TNBC patients. In the present review, we discuss three conceptual strategies to improve ICI response rates in TNBC patients. The first effort involves improving patient selection. We discuss proposed biomarkers of response and resistance to anti-PD-1, concluding that an optimal biomarker will likely be multifaceted. The second effort involves identifying existing targeted therapies or chemotherapies that may synergize with ICI. In particular, we describe recent efforts to use inhibitors of the PI3K/AKT or RAS/MAPK/ERK pathways in combination with ICI. Third, considering the possibility that targeting the PD-1 axis is not the most promising strategy for TNBC treatment, we describe ongoing efforts to identify novel immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann Richmond
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
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2
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Bell HN, Zou W. Beyond the Barrier: Unraveling the Mechanisms of Immunotherapy Resistance. Annu Rev Immunol 2024; 42:521-550. [PMID: 38382538 PMCID: PMC11213679 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-101819-024752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) induces a remarkable and durable response in a subset of cancer patients. However, most patients exhibit either primary or acquired resistance to ICB. This resistance arises from a complex interplay of diverse dynamic mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These mechanisms include genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic alterations that prevent T cell trafficking to the tumor site, induce immune cell dysfunction, interfere with antigen presentation, drive heightened expression of coinhibitory molecules, and promote tumor survival after immune attack. The TME worsens ICB resistance through the formation of immunosuppressive networks via immune inhibition, regulatory metabolites, and abnormal resource consumption. Finally, patient lifestyle factors, including obesity and microbiome composition, influence ICB resistance. Understanding the heterogeneity of cellular, molecular, and environmental factors contributing to ICB resistance is crucial to develop targeted therapeutic interventions that enhance the clinical response. This comprehensive overview highlights key mechanisms of ICB resistance that may be clinically translatable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N Bell
- Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Medical School, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Graduate Programs in Cancer Biology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; ,
| | - Weiping Zou
- Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Medical School, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; ,
- Graduate Programs in Cancer Biology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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3
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Wang C, Liu X, Nov P, Li L, Li C, Liao X, Li L, Du K, Li J. A signature based on circadian rhythm-associated genes for the evaluation of prognosis and the tumour microenvironment in HNSCC. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7594. [PMID: 38556542 PMCID: PMC10982303 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The morbidity and mortality rates of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain high worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify a new prognostic biomarker to guide the personalized treatment of HNSCC patients. Increasing evidence suggests that circadian rhythm genes play an important role in the development and progression of cancer. We aimed to explore the value of circadian rhythm genes in predicting prognosis and guiding the treatment of HNSCC. We first obtained a list of circadian rhythm genes from previous research. The sequencing data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Finally, univariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis were performed to develop a prognostic signature (Circadian Rhythm-Related Gene Prognostic Index, CRRGPI) consisting of nine circadian rhythm genes. The signature exhibited good performance in predicting overall survival. Patients with low CRRGPI scores had lower metabolic activities and an active antitumour immunity ability. Additionally, a clinical cohort was used to further evaluate the ability of the CRRGPI to predict the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, the novel circadian rhythm-related gene signature can provide a precise prognostic evaluation with the potential capacity to guide individualized treatment regimens for HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changqian Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Pengkhun Nov
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lilin Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chunhui Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xuejiao Liao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Luyao Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kunpeng Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Jiqiang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, Guangdong Province, China.
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Peng X, Huang X, Lulu TB, Jia W, Zhang S, Cohen L, Huang S, Fan J, Chen X, Liu S, Wang Y, Wang K, Isoyama S, Dan S, Wang F, Zhang Z, Elkabets M, Kong D. A novel pan-PI3K inhibitor KTC1101 synergizes with anti-PD-1 therapy by targeting tumor suppression and immune activation. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:54. [PMID: 38486218 PMCID: PMC10938783 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are critical regulators of diverse cellular functions and have emerged as promising targets in cancer therapy. Despite significant progress, existing PI3K inhibitors encounter various challenges such as suboptimal bioavailability, potential off-target effects, restricted therapeutic indices, and cancer-acquired resistance. Hence, novel inhibitors that overcome some of these challenges are needed. Here, we describe the characterization of KTC1101, a novel pan-PI3K inhibitor that simultaneously targets tumor cell proliferation and the tumor microenvironment. Our studies demonstrate that KTC1101 significantly increases the anti-PD-1 efficacy in multiple pre-clinical mouse models. METHODS KTC1101 was synthesized and characterized employing chemical synthesis, molecular modeling, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and mass spectrometry. Its target specificity was confirmed through the kinase assay, JFCR39 COMPARE analysis, and RNA-Seq analysis. Metabolic stability was verified via liver microsome and plasma assays, pharmacokinetics determined by LC-MS/MS, and safety profile established through acute toxicity assays to determine the LD50. The antiproliferative effects of KTC1101 were evaluated in a panel of cancer cell lines and further validated in diverse BALB/c nude mouse xenograft, NSG mouse xenograft and syngeneic mouse models. The KTC1101 treatment effect on the immune response was assessed through comprehensive RNA-Seq, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry, with molecular pathways investigated via Western blot, ELISA, and qRT-PCR. RESULTS KTC1101 demonstrated strong inhibition of cancer cell growth in vitro and significantly impeded tumor progression in vivo. It effectively modulated the Tumor Microenvironment (TME), characterized by increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells and innate immune cells. An intermittent dosing regimen of KTC1101 enhanced these effects. Notably, KTC1101 synergized with anti-PD-1 therapy, significantly boosting antitumor immunity and extending survival in preclinical models. CONCLUSION KTC1101's dual mechanism of action-directly inhibiting tumor cell growth and dynamically enhancing the immune response- represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment strategies. These findings support incorporating KTC1101 into future oncologic regimens to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Peng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Talal Ben Lulu
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Wenqing Jia
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Shaolu Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Limor Cohen
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Shengfan Huang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Jindian Fan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yongzhe Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Kailin Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Sho Isoyama
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Shingo Dan
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| | - Moshe Elkabets
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
| | - Dexin Kong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Department of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
- International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
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5
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Basho RK, Zhao L, White JB, Huo L, Bassett RL, Mittendorf EA, Thompson A, Litton JK, Ueno N, Arun B, Lim B, Valero V, Tripathy D, Zhang J, Adrada BE, Santiago L, Ravenberg E, Seth S, Yam C, Moulder SL, Damodaran S. Comprehensive Analysis Identifies Variability in PI3K Pathway Alterations in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Subtypes. JCO Precis Oncol 2024; 8:e2300124. [PMID: 38484209 PMCID: PMC10954064 DOI: 10.1200/po.23.00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The PI3K pathway is frequently altered in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Limited cell line and human data suggest that TNBC tumors characterized as mesenchymal (M) and luminal androgen receptor (LAR) subtypes have increased incidence of alterations in the PI3K pathway. The impact of PI3K pathway alterations across TNBC subtypes is poorly understood. METHODS Pretreatment tumor was evaluated from operable TNBC patients enrolled on a clinical trial of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT; A Robust TNBC Evaluation fraMework to Improve Survival [ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02276443]). Tumors were characterized into seven TNBC subtypes per Pietenpol criteria (basal-like 1, basal-like 2, immunomodulatory, M, mesenchymal stem-like, LAR, and unstable). Using whole-exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and immunohistochemistry for PTEN, alterations were identified in 32 genes known to activate the PI3K pathway. Alterations in each subtype were associated with pathologic response to NAT. RESULTS In evaluated patients (N = 177), there was a significant difference in the incidence of PI3K pathway alterations across TNBC subtypes (P < .01). The highest incidence of alterations was seen in LAR (81%), BL2 (79%), and M (62%) subtypes. The odds ratio for pathologic complete response (pCR) in the presence of PIK3CA mutation, PTEN mutation, and/or PTEN loss was highest in the LAR subtype and lowest in the M subtype, but these findings did not reach statistical significance. Presence of PIK3CA mutation was associated with pCR in the LAR subtype (P = .02). CONCLUSION PI3K pathway alteration can affect response to NAT in TNBC, and targeted agents may improve outcomes, particularly in patients with M and LAR TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Li Zhao
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jason B. White
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Lei Huo
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | | | | | | | - Naoto Ueno
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI
| | - Banu Arun
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Bora Lim
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Vicente Valero
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Debu Tripathy
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | | | | | - Sahil Seth
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Clinton Yam
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Stacy L. Moulder
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
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6
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Han HV, Efem R, Rosati B, Lu K, Maimouni S, Jiang YP, Montoya V, Van Der Velden A, Zong WX, Lin RZ. Propionyl-CoA carboxylase subunit B regulates anti-tumor T cells in a pancreatic cancer mouse model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.07.24.550301. [PMID: 37546948 PMCID: PMC10402106 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.24.550301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Most human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are not infiltrated with cytotoxic T cells and are highly resistant to immunotherapy. Over 90% of PDAC have oncogenic KRAS mutations, and phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are direct effectors of KRAS. Our previous study demonstrated that ablation of Pik3ca in KPC (KrasG12D; Trp53R172H; Pdx1-Cre) pancreatic cancer cells induced host T cells to infiltrate and completely eliminate the tumors in a syngeneic orthotopic implantation mouse model. Now, we show that implantation of Pik3ca-/- KPC (named αKO) cancer cells induces clonal expansion of cytotoxic T cells infiltrating the pancreatic tumors. To identify potential molecules that can regulate the activity of these anti-tumor T cells, we conducted an in vivo genome-wide gene-deletion screen using αKO cells implanted in the mouse pancreas. The result shows that deletion of propionyl-CoA carboxylase subunit B gene (Pccb) in αKO cells (named p-αKO) leads to immune evasion, tumor progression and death of host mice. Surprisingly, p-αKO tumors are still infiltrated with clonally expanded CD8+ T cells but they are inactive against tumor cells. However, blockade of PD-L1/PD1 interaction reactivated these clonally expanded T cells infiltrating p-αKO tumors, leading to slower tumor progression and improve survival of host mice. These results indicate that Pccb can modulate the activity of cytotoxic T cells infiltrating some pancreatic cancers and this understanding may lead to improvement in immunotherapy for this difficult-to-treat cancer.
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Wang J, Wang S, Wang J, Huang J, Lu H, Pan B, Pan H, Song Y, Deng Q, Jin X, Shi G. Comprehensive analysis of clinical prognosis and biological significance of CNIH4 in cervical cancer. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22381-22394. [PMID: 38087815 PMCID: PMC10757085 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cornichon homolog 4 (CNIH4) belongs to the CNIH family. It functions as an oncogene in many tumors. However, CNIH4's significance in the immune landscape and its predictive potential in cervical cancer (CESC) is unexplored. METHODS CNIH4 levels and its effect on the survival of patients with CESC were evaluated using data retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The oncogenic effect of CNIH4 in CESC was determined using small interfering RNA-mediated transfected cell lines and tumorigenesis experiments in animal models. RESULTS Higher expression of CNIH4 was found in advanced tumor and pathological stages, as well as lymph node metastasis. CNIH4 expression correlated positively with the infiltration of macrophages M2 and resting dendritic cells into the affected tissue. Additionally, functional enrichment of RNA-sequencing of CNIH4-knocked down CESC cell lines showed the association of CNIH4 to the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis highlighted several immune pathways that were elevated in the CESC samples with enhanced levels of CNIH4, including Type-I and Type-II IFN-response pathways. The impact of CNIH4 on drug sensitivity was further assessed using the GDSC database. As CNIH4 is linked to the immune landscape in CESC, this study determined a four-gene risk prediction signature utilizing CNIH4-related immunomodulators. The risk score quantified from the prediction signature was an independent predictive indicator in CESC. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis verified the good predictive ability of the four-gene signature in TCGA-CESC cohort. Thus, the CNIH4-related model showed potential as an auxiliary TNM staging system tool. CONCLUSION CNIH4 may be an effective predictive biomarker for patients with cervical cancer, thus providing new ideas and research directions for CESC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- Industrial College of Biomedicine and Health IndustryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Shudan Wang
- School of MedicineNingbo UniversityNingboChina
| | - Junli Wang
- Industrial College of Biomedicine and Health IndustryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- School of Medical LaboratoryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Haishan Lu
- Clinical Pathological Diagnosis & Research CentraThe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Bin Pan
- Department of Laboratory Animal CenterYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Hanyi Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Yanlun Song
- Industrial College of Biomedicine and Health IndustryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- School of Medical LaboratoryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Qianqian Deng
- Industrial College of Biomedicine and Health IndustryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- School of Medical LaboratoryYoujiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Xiaojun Jin
- School of MedicineNingbo UniversityNingboChina
| | - Guiling Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
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8
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Jiang W, Ouyang X, Li C, Long Y, Chen W, Ji Z, Shen X, Xiang L, Yang H. Targeting PI3Kα increases the efficacy of anti-PD-1 antibody in cervical cancer. Immunology 2023; 170:419-438. [PMID: 37469254 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting programmed death 1(PD-1) has been approved for relapsed cervical cancer with unsatisfactory clinical efficacy. This study aims to analyse the impact of PI3K pathway activation on tumour immune microenvironment and evaluates the immune sensitization effect by PI3K inhibition in cervical cancer. The effect of PIK3CA mutation on PD-L1 expression and CD8+ T cells differentiation was determined in cervical cancer tissues. Luciferase and ChIP-qPCR/PCR assays were used to determine the transcriptional regulation of PD-L1 by PIK3CA-E545K. The effects of PI3K inhibitor treatment on immune environment in vitro and in vivo were evaluated by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and flow cytometry. The efficacy of PI3K inhibitor and anti-PD-1 therapy was assessed in cell-derived xenografts (CDX) and patients-derived xenografts (PDX). PD-L1 overexpression is more frequently observed in elder women with squamous cervical carcinoma. It predicts longer progress-free survival and overall survival. PIK3CA mutation results in increased mRNA and protein levels of PD-L1, the repression of CD8+ T cell differentiation in cervical cancer. Here, we report a case that continuous pembrolizumab monotherapy treatment induced complete remission of a recurrent cervical cancer patient with systemic metastasis and PIK3CA-E545K mutation, implying that PIK3CA mutation is potentially a biomarker for pembrolizumab treatment in cervical cancer. Specifically, this mutation promotes the expression of PD-L1 by upregulating the transcription factor IRF1. PI3Kα-specific inhibitor markedly activates immune microenvironment by regulating the PD-1/L1-related pathways and promoting CD8+ T cell differentiation and proliferation in Caski-CDXs with PIK3CA-E545K mutation. PI3Kα inhibitor significantly enhances the anti-tumour efficacy of PD-1 blockade in CDXs and PDXs. PIK3CA mutations may predict the response of cervical cancer to PD-1 blockade. The efficacy of PI3Kα inhibitors combined with PD-1 antibodies is promising in cervical cancer and warrants additional clinical and mechanistic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jiang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyan Ouyang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixiu Long
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, the Central Hospital of Minhang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaodong Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuxia Shen
- Department of Pathology Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Libing Xiang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huijuan Yang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Glaviano A, Foo ASC, Lam HY, Yap KCH, Jacot W, Jones RH, Eng H, Nair MG, Makvandi P, Geoerger B, Kulke MH, Baird RD, Prabhu JS, Carbone D, Pecoraro C, Teh DBL, Sethi G, Cavalieri V, Lin KH, Javidi-Sharifi NR, Toska E, Davids MS, Brown JR, Diana P, Stebbing J, Fruman DA, Kumar AP. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling transduction pathway and targeted therapies in cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:138. [PMID: 37596643 PMCID: PMC10436543 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01827-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 114.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The PI3K/AKT/mTOR (PAM) signaling pathway is a highly conserved signal transduction network in eukaryotic cells that promotes cell survival, cell growth, and cell cycle progression. Growth factor signalling to transcription factors in the PAM axis is highly regulated by multiple cross-interactions with several other signaling pathways, and dysregulation of signal transduction can predispose to cancer development. The PAM axis is the most frequently activated signaling pathway in human cancer and is often implicated in resistance to anticancer therapies. Dysfunction of components of this pathway such as hyperactivity of PI3K, loss of function of PTEN, and gain-of-function of AKT, are notorious drivers of treatment resistance and disease progression in cancer. In this review we highlight the major dysregulations in the PAM signaling pathway in cancer, and discuss the results of PI3K, AKT and mTOR inhibitors as monotherapy and in co-administation with other antineoplastic agents in clinical trials as a strategy for overcoming treatment resistance. Finally, the major mechanisms of resistance to PAM signaling targeted therapies, including PAM signaling in immunology and immunotherapies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Glaviano
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Aaron S C Foo
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hiu Y Lam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Kenneth C H Yap
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - William Jacot
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut du Cancer de Montpellier, Inserm U1194, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Robert H Jones
- Cardiff University and Velindre Cancer Centre, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Huiyan Eng
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Madhumathy G Nair
- Division of Molecular Medicine, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Inserm U1015, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Matthew H Kulke
- Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard D Baird
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Jyothi S Prabhu
- Division of Molecular Medicine, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniel B L Teh
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, and Neurobiology Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Vincenzo Cavalieri
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Kevin H Lin
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Eneda Toska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew S Davids
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer R Brown
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Justin Stebbing
- Division of Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - David A Fruman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, 216 Sprague Hall, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Alan P Kumar
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
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10
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Zhong H, Zhang X, Tian P, Chu T, Guo Q, Yu X, Yu Z, Li Y, Chen L, Liu J, Zhang Y, Guan Y, Shi X, Wang J, Zhao Y, Han B. Tislelizumab plus chemotherapy for patients with EGFR-mutated non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer who progressed on EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006887. [PMID: 37597849 PMCID: PMC10441075 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006887] [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] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment options are limited for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after treatment failure with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). This multicenter open-label, phase II study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tislelizumab plus chemotherapy (cohort 1, TIS+chemo) or tislelizumab plus chemotherapy and bevacizumab (cohort 2, TIS+chemo+ beva) in EGFR-mutated non-squamous NSCLC patients who progressed on EGFR TKI therapies. Here, the primary analysis of the TIS+chemo cohort is reported. METHODS In the TIS+chemo cohort, patients with EGFR-sensitizing mutations with prior EGFR TKI failure received tislelizumab plus carboplatin and nab-paclitaxel as induction treatment, followed by maintenance with tislelizumab plus pemetrexed. The primary endpoint was 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate. The planned sample size was 66 with a historical control of 7%, an expected value of 20%, a one-sided α of 0.05, and a power of 85%. RESULTS Between July 11, 2020 and December 13, 2021, 69 patients were enrolled. As of June 30, 2022, the median follow-up was 8.2 months. Among the 62 patients in the efficacy analysis set, estimated 1-year PFS rate was 23.8% (90% CI 13.1% to 36.2%), and its lower bound of 90% CI was higher than the historical control of chemotherapy (7%), which met the primary endpoint. The median PFS was 7.6 (95% CI 6.4 to 9.8) months. Median overall survival (OS) was not reached (95% CI 14.0 to not estimable), with a 1-year OS rate of 74.5% (95% CI 56.5% to 86.0%). The objective response rate and disease control rate were 56.5% (95% CI 43.3% to 69.0%) and 87.1% (95% CI 76.1% to 94.3%), respectively. Patients who had progressed on first-generation/second-generation and third-generation EGFR-TKIs at baseline had shorter PFS than those who progressed on first-generation/second-generation EGFR-TKIs (median 7.5 vs 9.8 months, p=0.031). Patients with positive ctDNA had shorter PFS (median 7.4 vs 12.3 months, p=0.031) than those with negative ctDNA. No grade 5 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were observed. Grades 3-4 TEAEs occurred in 40.6% (28/69) of patients. Grades 3-4 immune-related AEs occurred in 5 (7.2%) patients. CONCLUSION The study met the primary endpoint for the TIS+chemo cohort. Tislelizumab plus chemotherapy is effective with an acceptable safety profile for EGFR-mutated non-squamous NSCLC after EGFR TKI failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyan Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Panwen Tian
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianqing Chu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qisen Guo
- Department of Respiratory Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinmin Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhuang Yu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yalun Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lijuan Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University/Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University/Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Phase I Clinical Trials Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital Afiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Guan
- Department of Respiratory Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xun Shi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University/Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Baohui Han
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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11
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Piper M, Kluger H, Ruppin E, Hu-Lieskovan S. Immune Resistance Mechanisms and the Road to Personalized Immunotherapy. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e390290. [PMID: 37459578 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_390290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
What does the future of cancer immunotherapy look like and how do we get there? Find out where we've been and where we're headed in A Report on Resistance: The Road to personalized immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles Piper
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Eytan Ruppin
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - Siwen Hu-Lieskovan
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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12
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Zhang G, Zheng G, Zhang H, Qiu L. MUC1 induces the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment to promote the growth and metastasis of cholangiocarcinoma through the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110091. [PMID: 37018979 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in the progression of cholangiocarcinoma. This study aims to explore whether Mucin 1 (MUC1) regulates Foxp3+ Treg cells in the TME of cholangiocarcinoma through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. High-throughput sequencing dataset in the GEO database combined with GeneCards and Phenolyzer databases was used to obtain key genes in cholangiocarcinoma, followed by downstream pathway prediction. The relationship among MUC1, EGFR, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was explored. CD4+ T cells extracted from peripheral blood were induced to differentiate into Treg cells, followed by co-culture with cholangiocarcinoma cells. A mouse model was constructed to detect the role of MUC1 in the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells, malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma, and tumorigenesis in vivo. MUC1, highly expressed in cholangiocarcinoma, might be involved in cholangiocarcinoma development. MUC1 interacted with the EGFR to activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. MUC1 overexpression could activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which promoted the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells in the TME and the malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma cells both in vitro and in vivo and enhanced tumorigenesis in vivo. MUC1 may interact with EGFR to activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which induces the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells, enhancing the malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma cells and tumorigenesis in vivo and ultimately augmenting cholangiocarcinoma growth and metastasis.
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13
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Sugiyama D, Hinohara K, Nishikawa H. Significance of regulatory T cells in cancer immunology and immunotherapy. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:256-263. [PMID: 36458459 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Immunosuppression in the tumour microenvironment (TME) attenuates antitumor immunity, consequently hindering protective immunosurveillance and preventing effective antitumor immunity induced by cancer immunotherapy. Multiple mechanisms including immune checkpoint molecules, such as CTLA-4, PD-1, and LAG-3, and immunosuppressive cells are involved in the immunosuppression in the TME. Regulatory T (Treg) cells, a population of immunosuppressive cells, play an important role in inhibiting antitumor immunity. Therefore, Treg cells in the TME correlate with an unfavourable prognosis in various cancer types. Thus, Treg cell is considered to become a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Elucidating Treg cell functions in cancer patients is therefore crucial for developing optimal Treg cell-targeted immunotherapy. Here, we describe Treg cell functions and phenotypes in the TME from the perspective of Treg cell-targeted immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Sugiyama
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Hinohara
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Nishikawa
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Research Institute/Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center (EPOC), National Cancer Center, Chuo-ku, Japan
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14
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Targeting Class I-II-III PI3Ks in Cancer Therapy: Recent Advances in Tumor Biology and Preclinical Research. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030784. [PMID: 36765741 PMCID: PMC9913247 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) enzymes, producing signaling phosphoinositides at plasma and intracellular membranes, are key in intracellular signaling and vesicular trafficking pathways. PI3K is a family of eight enzymes divided into three classes with various functions in physiology and largely deregulated in cancer. Here, we will review the recent evidence obtained during the last 5 years on the roles of PI3K class I, II and III isoforms in tumor biology and on the anti-tumoral action of PI3K inhibitors in preclinical cancer models. The dependency of tumors to PI3K isoforms is dictated by both genetics and context (e.g., the microenvironment). The understanding of class II/III isoforms in cancer development and progression remains scarce. Nonetheless, the limited available data are consistent and reveal that there is an interdependency between the pathways controlled by all PI3K class members in their role to promote cancer cell proliferation, survival, growth, migration and metabolism. It is unknown whether this feature contributes to partial treatment failure with isoform-selective PI3K inhibitors. Hence, a better understanding of class II/III functions to efficiently inhibit their positive and negative interactions with class I PI3Ks is needed. This research will provide the proof-of-concept to develop combination treatment strategies targeting several PI3K isoforms simultaneously.
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15
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Shan F, Somasundaram A, Bruno TC, Workman CJ, Vignali DAA. Therapeutic targeting of regulatory T cells in cancer. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:944-961. [PMID: 35853825 PMCID: PMC9588644 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The success of immunotherapy in oncology underscores the vital role of the immune system in cancer development. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) maintain a fine balance between autoimmunity and immune suppression. They have multiple roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME) but act particularly in suppressing T cell activation. This review focuses on the detrimental and sometimes beneficial roles of Tregs in tumors, our current understanding of recruitment and stabilization of Tregs within the TME, and current Treg-targeted therapeutics. Research identifying subpopulations of Tregs and their respective functions and interactions within the complex networks of the TME will be crucial to develop the next generation of immunotherapies. Through these advances, Treg-targeted immunotherapy could have important implications for the future of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Shan
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Ashwin Somasundaram
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Tullia C Bruno
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Creg J Workman
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Dario A A Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
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16
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Signaling pathways and targeted therapies in lung squamous cell carcinoma: mechanisms and clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:353. [PMID: 36198685 PMCID: PMC9535022 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01200-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death across the world. Unlike lung adenocarcinoma, patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) have not benefitted from targeted therapies. Although immunotherapy has significantly improved cancer patients' outcomes, the relatively low response rate and severe adverse events hinder the clinical application of this promising treatment in LSCC. Therefore, it is of vital importance to have a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of LSCC as well as the inner connection among different signaling pathways, which will surely provide opportunities for more effective therapeutic interventions for LSCC. In this review, new insights were given about classical signaling pathways which have been proved in other cancer types but not in LSCC, including PI3K signaling pathway, VEGF/VEGFR signaling, and CDK4/6 pathway. Other signaling pathways which may have therapeutic potentials in LSCC were also discussed, including the FGFR1 pathway, EGFR pathway, and KEAP1/NRF2 pathway. Next, chromosome 3q, which harbors two key squamous differentiation markers SOX2 and TP63 is discussed as well as its related potential therapeutic targets. We also provided some progress of LSCC in epigenetic therapies and immune checkpoints blockade (ICB) therapies. Subsequently, we outlined some combination strategies of ICB therapies and other targeted therapies. Finally, prospects and challenges were given related to the exploration and application of novel therapeutic strategies for LSCC.
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17
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Zhang T, Zhang C, Fu Z, Gao Q. Immune Modulatory Effects of Molecularly Targeted Therapy and Its Repurposed Usage in Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091768. [PMID: 36145516 PMCID: PMC9505720 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The fast evolution of anti-tumor agents embodies a deeper understanding of cancer pathogenesis. To date, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are three pillars of the paradigm for cancer treatment. The success of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) implies that reinstatement of immunity can efficiently control tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. However, only a fraction of patients benefit from ICI therapy, which turns the spotlight on developing safe therapeutic strategies to overcome the problem of an unsatisfactory response. Molecular-targeted agents were designed to eliminate cancer cells with oncogenic mutations or transcriptional targets. Intriguingly, accumulating shreds of evidence demonstrate the immunostimulatory or immunosuppressive capacity of targeted agents. By virtue of the high attrition rate and cost of new immunotherapy exploration, drug repurposing may be a promising approach to discovering combination strategies to improve response to immunotherapy. Indeed, many clinical trials investigating the safety and efficacy of the combination of targeted agents and immunotherapy have been completed. Here, we review and discuss the effects of targeted anticancer agents on the tumor immune microenvironment and explore their potential repurposed usage in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiancheng Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chenhao Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zile Fu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-21-6403-7181
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18
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Wang PH, Washburn R, Maniar R, Mu M, Ringham O, Kratchmarov R, Henick BS, Reiner SL. Cutting Edge: Promoting T Cell Factor 1 + T Cell Self-Renewal to Improve Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 Blockade. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:660-664. [PMID: 35905999 PMCID: PMC9387677 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade is limited by resistance to treatment, with many patients not achieving durable antitumor responses. Self-renewing (T cell factor 1+ [TCF1+]) CD8+ T cells have recently been implicated in efficacy of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (anti-PD-1). Mice challenged with syngeneic tumors were treated with anti-PD-1 and/or a reversible inhibitor of PI3K δ, designed to promote T cell self-renewal. Growth of tumors in untreated mice was characterized by waning proportions of TCF1+ T cells, suggesting self-renewing T cells become limiting for successful immunotherapy. Higher proportions of TCF1+ T cells in tumor and blood correlated with better control of tumor growth. Combining anti-PD-1 and inhibitor of PI3K δ conferred superior protection compared with either monotherapy and was associated with higher frequency of TCF1+ T cells in tumor and blood compared with anti-PD-1 alone. These findings reveal predictive importance of self-renewing T cells in anti-tumor immunity and suggest that resistance-directed strategies to enhance T cell self-renewal could potentiate the efficacy of PD-1 blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Robert Washburn
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Rohan Maniar
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY; and
| | - Michael Mu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Olivia Ringham
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Radomir Kratchmarov
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Brian S Henick
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY; and
| | - Steven L Reiner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY;
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
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19
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Targeting oncogene and non-oncogene addiction to inflame the tumour microenvironment. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:440-462. [PMID: 35292771 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the clinical management of multiple tumours. However, only a few patients respond to ICIs, which has generated considerable interest in the identification of resistance mechanisms. One such mechanism reflects the ability of various oncogenic pathways, as well as stress response pathways required for the survival of transformed cells (a situation commonly referred to as 'non-oncogene addiction'), to support tumour progression not only by providing malignant cells with survival and/or proliferation advantages, but also by establishing immunologically 'cold' tumour microenvironments (TMEs). Thus, both oncogene and non-oncogene addiction stand out as promising targets to robustly inflame the TME and potentially enable superior responses to ICIs.
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20
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Impact of epigenetics on human health and possible tool for remediation. THE NUCLEUS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13237-021-00379-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
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