1
|
Wells K, Liu T, Zhu L, Yang L. Immunomodulatory nanoparticles activate cytotoxic T cells for enhancement of the effect of cancer immunotherapy. NANOSCALE 2024. [PMID: 39257225 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01780c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy represents a promising targeted treatment by leveraging the patient's immune system or adoptive transfer of active immune cells to selectively eliminate cancer cells. Despite notable clinical successes, conventional immunotherapies face significant challenges stemming from the poor infiltration of endogenous or adoptively transferred cytotoxic T cells in tumors, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and the immune evasion capability of cancer cells, leading to limited efficacy in many types of solid tumors. Overcoming these hurdles is essential to broaden the applicability of immunotherapies. Recent advances in nanotherapeutics have emerged as an innovative tool to overcome these challenges and enhance the therapeutic potential of tumor immunotherapy. The unique biochemical and biophysical properties of nanomaterials offer advantages in activation of immune cells in vitro for cell therapy, targeted delivery, and controlled release of immunomodulatory agents in vivo. Nanoparticles are excellent carriers for tumor associated antigens or neoantigen peptides for tumor vaccine, empowering activation of tumor specific T cell responses. By precisely delivering immunomodulatory agents to the tumor site, immunoactivating nanoparticles can promote tumor infiltration of endogenous T cells or adoptively transferred T cells into tumors, to overcoming delivery and biological barriers in the tumor microenvironment, augmenting the immune system's ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This review provides an overview of the current advances in immunotherapeutic approaches utilizing nanotechnology. With a focus on discussions concerning strategies to enhance activity and efficacy of cytotoxic T cells and explore the intersection of engineering nanoparticles and immunomodulation aimed at bolstering T cell-mediated immune responses, we introduce various nanoparticle formulations designed to deliver therapeutic payloads, tumor antigens and immunomodulatory agents for T cell activation. Diverse mechanisms through which nanoparticle-based approaches influence T cell responses by improving antigen presentation, promoting immune cell trafficking, and reprogramming immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments to potentiate anti-tumor immunity are examined. Additionally, the synergistic potential of combining nanotherapeutics with existing immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive T cell therapies is explored. In conclusion, this review highlights emerging research advances on activation of cytotoxic T cells using nanoparticle agents to support the promises and potential applications of nanoparticle-based immunomodulatory agents for cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kory Wells
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute, Clinic C, Room 4088, 1365 C Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Tongrui Liu
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute, Clinic C, Room 4088, 1365 C Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute, Clinic C, Room 4088, 1365 C Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Lily Yang
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute, Clinic C, Room 4088, 1365 C Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ferrari DP, Ramos-Gomes F, Alves F, Markus MA. KPC-luciferase-expressing cells elicit an anti-tumor immune response in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13602. [PMID: 38866899 PMCID: PMC11169258 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64053-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mouse models for the study of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are well-established and representative of many key features observed in human PDAC. To monitor tumor growth, cancer cells that are implanted in mice are often transfected with reporter genes, such as firefly luciferase (Luc), enabling in vivo optical imaging over time. Since Luc can induce an immune response, we aimed to evaluate whether the expression of Luc could affect the growth of KPC tumors in mice by inducing immunogenicity. Although both cell lines, KPC and Luc transduced KPC (KPC-Luc), had the same proliferation rate, KPC-Luc tumors had significantly smaller sizes or were absent 13 days after orthotopic cell implantation, compared to KPC tumors. This coincided with the loss of bioluminescence signal over the tumor region. Immunophenotyping of blood and spleen from KPC-Luc tumor-bearing mice showed a decreased number of macrophages and CD4+ T cells, and an increased accumulation of natural killer (NK) cells in comparison to KPC tumor mice. Higher infiltration of CD8+ T cells was found in KPC-Luc tumors than in their controls. Moreover, the immune response against Luc peptide was stronger in splenocytes from mice implanted with KPC-Luc cells compared to those isolated from KPC wild-type mice, indicating increased immunogenicity elicited by the presence of Luc in the PDAC tumor cells. These results must be considered when evaluating the efficacy of anti-cancer therapies including immunotherapies in immunocompetent PDAC or other cancer mouse models that use Luc as a reporter for bioluminescence imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Pereira Ferrari
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Hermann Rein‑Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Fernanda Ramos-Gomes
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Hermann Rein‑Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Hermann Rein‑Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Haematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - M Andrea Markus
- Translational Molecular Imaging, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Hermann Rein‑Straße 3, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Meng X, Zhu G, Yang YG, Sun T. Targeted delivery strategies: The interactions and applications of nanoparticles in liver diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116702. [PMID: 38729052 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116702] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, nanoparticles have been broadly utilized in various drugs delivery formulations. Nanodelivery systems have shown promise in solving problems associated with the distribution of hydrophobic drugs and have promoted the accumulation of nanomedicines in the circulation or in organs. However, the injection dose of nanoparticles (NPs) is much greater than that needed by diseased tissues or organs. In other words, most of the NPs are localized off-target and do not reach the desired tissue or organs. With the rapid development of biodegradable and biosafety nanomaterials, the nanovectors represent assurance of safety. However, the off-target effects also induce concerns about the application of NPs, especially in the delivery of gene editing tools. Therefore, a complete understanding of the biological responses to NPs in the body will clearly guide the design of targeted delivery of NPs. The different properties of various nanodelivery systems may induce diverse interactions between carriers and organs. In this review, we describe the relationship between the liver, the most influenced organ of systemic administration of NPs, and targeted delivery nanoplatforms. Various transport vehicles have adopted multiple delivery strategies for the targeted delivery to the cells in the homeostasis liver and in diseased liver. Additionally, nanodelivery systems provide a novel strategy for treating incurable diseases. The appearance of a targeted delivery has profoundly improved the application of NPs to liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiandi Meng
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ge Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yong-Guang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Tianmeng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, Jilin, China; State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pan X, Ni S, Hu K. Nanomedicines for reversing immunosuppressive microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomaterials 2024; 306:122481. [PMID: 38286109 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122481] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Although immunotherapeutic strategies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have gained promising advances, their limited efficacy and significant toxicity remain great challenges for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) immunotherapy. The tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) with insufficient T-cell infiltration and low immunogenicity accounts for most HCC patients' poor response to ICIs. Worse still, the current immunotherapeutics without precise delivery may elicit enormous autoimmune side effects and systemic toxicity in the clinic. With a better understanding of the TIME in HCC, nanomedicines have emerged as an efficient strategy to achieve remodeling of the TIME and superadditive antitumor effects via targeted delivery of immunotherapeutics or multimodal synergistic therapy. Based on the typical characteristics of the TIME in HCC, this review summarizes the recent advancements in nanomedicine-based strategies for TIME-reversing HCC treatment. Additionally, perspectives on the awaiting challenges and opportunities of nanomedicines in modulating the TIME of HCC are presented. Acquisition of knowledge of nanomedicine-mediated TIME reversal will provide researchers with a better opportunity for clinical translation of HCC immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xier Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shuting Ni
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Kaili Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Luo R, Wan Y, Liu G, Chen J, Luo X, Li Z, Su D, Lu N, Luo Z. Engineering Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel to Enhance the Capacity of Dendritic Cells to Activate In Vivo T-Cell Immunity. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:1408-1428. [PMID: 38236703 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The efficacy of the dendritic cell (DC) has failed to meet expectations thus far, and crucial problems such as the immature state of DCs, low targeting efficiency, insufficient number of dendritic cells, and microenvironment are still the current focus. To address these problems, we developed two self-assembling peptides, RLDI and RQDT, that mimic extracellular matrix (ECM). These peptides can be self-assembled into highly ordered three-dimensional nanofiber scaffold structures, where RLDI can form gelation immediately. In addition, we found that RLDI and RQDT enhance the biological function of DCs, including releasing antigens sustainably, adhering to DCs, promoting the maturation of DCs, and increasing the ability of DC antigen presentation. Moreover, peptide hydrogel-based DC treatment significantly achieved prophylactic and treatment effects on colon cancer. These results have certain implications for the design of new broad-spectrum vaccines in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruyue Luo
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Yuan Wan
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Guicen Liu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jialei Chen
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xinyi Luo
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhaoxu Li
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Di Su
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Na Lu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhongli Luo
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Feng X, Shi Y, Zhang Y, Lei F, Ren R, Tang X. Opportunities and Challenges for Inhalable Nanomedicine Formulations in Respiratory Diseases: A Review. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:1509-1538. [PMID: 38384321 PMCID: PMC10880554 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s446919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Lungs experience frequent interactions with the external environment and have an abundant supply of blood; therefore, they are susceptible to invasion by pathogenic microorganisms and tumor cells. However, the limited pharmacokinetics of conventional drugs in the lungs poses a clinical challenge. The emergence of different nano-formulations has been facilitated by advancements in nanotechnology. Inhaled nanomedicines exhibit better targeting and prolonged therapeutic effects. Although nano-formulations have great potential, they still present several unknown risks. Herein, we review the (1) physiological anatomy of the lungs and their biological barriers, (2) pharmacokinetics and toxicology of nanomaterial formulations in the lungs; (3) current nanomaterials that can be applied to the respiratory system and related design strategies, and (4) current applications of inhaled nanomaterials in treating respiratory disorders, vaccine design, and imaging detection based on the characteristics of different nanomaterials. Finally, (5) we analyze and summarize the challenges and prospects of nanomaterials for respiratory disease applications. We believe that nanomaterials, particularly inhaled nano-formulations, have excellent prospects for application in respiratory diseases. However, we emphasize that the simultaneous toxic side effects of biological nanomaterials must be considered during the application of these emerging medicines. This study aims to offer comprehensive guidelines and valuable insights for conducting research on nanomaterials in the domain of the respiratory system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xujun Feng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Lei
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rong Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiangdong Tang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine Center, Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hu Y, Dong Z, Liu K. Unraveling the complexity of STAT3 in cancer: molecular understanding and drug discovery. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:23. [PMID: 38245798 PMCID: PMC10799433 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02949-5] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcriptional factor involved in almost all cancer hallmark features including tumor proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, tumor inflammation, metabolism reprogramming, drug resistance, cancer stemness. Therefore, STAT3 has become a promising therapeutic target in a wide range of cancers. This review focuses on the up-to-date knowledge of STAT3 signaling in cancer. We summarize both the positive and negative modulators of STAT3 together with the cancer hallmarks involving activities regulated by STAT3 and highlight its extremely sophisticated regulation on immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment and metabolic reprogramming. Direct and indirect inhibitors of STAT3 in preclinical and clinical studies also have been summarized and discussed. Additionally, we highlight and propose new strategies of targeting STAT3 and STAT3-based combinations with established chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and combination therapy. These efforts may provide new perspectives for STAT3-based target therapy in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Hu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yi M, Li T, Niu M, Mei Q, Zhao B, Chu Q, Dai Z, Wu K. Exploiting innate immunity for cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:187. [PMID: 38008741 PMCID: PMC10680233 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01885-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment paradigms of various types of cancers. However, most of these immunomodulatory strategies focus on harnessing adaptive immunity, mainly by inhibiting immunosuppressive signaling with immune checkpoint blockade, or enhancing immunostimulatory signaling with bispecific T cell engager and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell. Although these agents have already achieved great success, only a tiny percentage of patients could benefit from immunotherapies. Actually, immunotherapy efficacy is determined by multiple components in the tumor microenvironment beyond adaptive immunity. Cells from the innate arm of the immune system, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and unconventional T cells, also participate in cancer immune evasion and surveillance. Considering that the innate arm is the cornerstone of the antitumor immune response, utilizing innate immunity provides potential therapeutic options for cancer control. Up to now, strategies exploiting innate immunity, such as agonists of stimulator of interferon genes, CAR-macrophage or -natural killer cell therapies, metabolic regulators, and novel immune checkpoint blockade, have exhibited potent antitumor activities in preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we summarize the latest insights into the potential roles of innate cells in antitumor immunity and discuss the advances in innate arm-targeted therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yi
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianye Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengke Niu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Mei
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Chu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhijun Dai
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tsai WC, Liu FL, Huang MH, Huang CH. Enhancing Immunity and Modulating Vaginal Microflora Against Candidal Vaginitis Through Nanoemulsion Supplemented with Porphyra Oligosaccharide as an Intravaginal Vaccine Adjuvant. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:6333-6346. [PMID: 37954454 PMCID: PMC10637204 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s431009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intravaginal vaccination is an encouraging approach to prevent infectious vaginitis, with nanoemulsions showing effectiveness as mucosal adjuvants. Purpose This study aimed to formulate a nanoemulsion incorporating Porphyra oligosaccharide (PO@NE) and assess its effectiveness as a mucosal adjuvant in intravaginal vaccines against candidal vaginitis. Materials and Methods PO@NE was prepared, and the stability, immunomodulatory activity and cytotoxicity were screened in vitro. Further, the preventive effect of PO@NE as adjuvants for heat-killed Candida albicans (HK-CA) vaccines was explored in a murine model of candidal vaginitis, in comparison with those supplemented with polysaccharide (PP@NE). The mice were intravaginally vaccinated with 106 HK-CA cells, suspended in 1% NE without or with either PO or PP at a final concentration of 6.5 μg/mL, in a total volume of 20 μL. This vaccination was intravaginally administered once a week for 3 weeks. One week following the final vaccination, the mice underwent an intravaginal challenge with 107 C. albicans cells. One week after the challenge, the mice were euthanized to isolate serum, spleen, vaginal washes, and vaginal tissues for analysis. Results PP@NE and PO@NE, with diameters approximately around 100 nm, exhibited exceptional stability at 4°C and low cytotoxicity when used at a concentration of 1% (v/v). Intravaginal vaccination with HK-CA adjuvanted with PO@NE effectively protected against candidal vaginitis evidenced by less Candida hyphae colonization, milder mucosal damage and cell infiltration. Moreover, enhanced mucosal antibody production, induction of T helper (Th)1 and Th17-related immune responses, enlarged the population of CD8+ cells, and elevated vaginal microflora diversity were observed in vaccinated mice. Interestingly, the potency was rather attenuated when PO@NE was replaced with PP@NE. Conclusion These findings indicate PO@NE as a HK-CA vaccine adjuvant for candidal vaginitis prevention via enhancement of both cellular and humoral immunity and modulation of vaginal microflora, emphasizing further intravaginal vaccination development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chung Tsai
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Ling Liu
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsi Huang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Hsiung Huang
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
- Center for Marine Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dong Y, Chen J, Chen Y, Liu S. Targeting the STAT3 oncogenic pathway: Cancer immunotherapy and drug repurposing. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115513. [PMID: 37741251 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115513] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune effector cells in the microenvironment tend to be depleted or remodeled, unable to perform normal functions, and even promote the malignant characterization of tumors, resulting in the formation of immunosuppressive microenvironments. The strategy of reversing immunosuppressive microenvironment has been widely used to enhance the tumor immunotherapy effect. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was found to be a crucial regulator of immunosuppressive microenvironment formation and activation as well as a factor, stimulating tumor cell proliferation, survival, invasiveness and metastasis. Therefore, regulating the immune microenvironment by targeting the STAT3 oncogenic pathway might be a new cancer therapy strategy. This review discusses the pleiotropic effects of STAT3 on immune cell populations that are critical for tumorigenesis, and introduces the novel strategies targeting STAT3 oncogenic pathway for cancer immunotherapy. Lastly, we summarize the conventional drugs used in new STAT3-targeting anti-tumor applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yushan Dong
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, No. 24, Heping Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jingyu Chen
- Department of Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 1 Xiyuan Playground, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhan Chen
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Songjiang Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, No.26, Heping Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ren H, Jia W, Xie Y, Yu M, Chen Y. Adjuvant physiochemistry and advanced nanotechnology for vaccine development. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:5172-5254. [PMID: 37462107 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00848c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines comprising innovative adjuvants are rapidly reaching advanced translational stages, such as the authorized nanotechnology adjuvants in mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 worldwide, offering new strategies to effectively combat diseases threatening human health. Adjuvants are vital ingredients in vaccines, which can augment the degree, extensiveness, and longevity of antigen specific immune response. The advances in the modulation of physicochemical properties of nanoplatforms elevate the capability of adjuvants in initiating the innate immune system and adaptive immunity, offering immense potential for developing vaccines against hard-to-target infectious diseases and cancer. In this review, we provide an essential introduction of the basic principles of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination, key roles of adjuvants in augmenting and shaping immunity to achieve desired outcomes and effectiveness, and the physiochemical properties and action mechanisms of clinically approved adjuvants for humans. We particularly focus on the preclinical and clinical progress of highly immunogenic emerging nanotechnology adjuvants formulated in vaccines for cancer treatment or infectious disease prevention. We deliberate on how the immune system can sense and respond to the physicochemical cues (e.g., chirality, deformability, solubility, topology, and chemical structures) of nanotechnology adjuvants incorporated in the vaccines. Finally, we propose possible strategies to accelerate the clinical implementation of nanotechnology adjuvanted vaccines, such as in-depth elucidation of nano-immuno interactions, antigen identification and optimization by the deployment of high-dimensional multiomics analysis approaches, encouraging close collaborations among scientists from different scientific disciplines and aggressive exploration of novel nanotechnologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongze Ren
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Wencong Jia
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Xie
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Meihua Yu
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
| | - Yu Chen
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wan J, Ren L, Li X, He S, Fu Y, Xu P, Meng F, Xian S, Pu K, Wang H. Photoactivatable nanoagonists chemically programmed for pharmacokinetic tuning and in situ cancer vaccination. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2210385120. [PMID: 36787350 PMCID: PMC9974508 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2210385120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy holds great promise for the treatment of aggressive and metastatic cancers; however, currently available immunotherapeutics, such as immune checkpoint blockade, benefit only a small subset of patients. A photoactivatable toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8) nanoagonist (PNA) system that imparts near-infrared (NIR) light-induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) in dying tumor cells in synchrony with the spontaneous release of a potent immunoadjuvant is developed here. The PNA consists of polymer-derived proimmunoadjuvants ligated via a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-cleavable linker and polymer-derived photosensitizers, which are further encapsulated in amphiphilic matrices for systemic injection. In particular, conjugation of the TLR7/8 agonist resiquimod to biodegradable macromolecular moieties with different molecular weights enabled pharmacokinetic tuning of small-molecule agonists and optimized delivery efficiency in mice. Upon NIR photoirradiation, PNA effectively generated ROS not only to ablate tumors and induce the ICD cascade but also to trigger the on-demand release of TLR agonists. In several preclinical cancer models, intravenous PNA administration followed by NIR tumor irradiation resulted in remarkable tumor regression and suppressed postsurgical tumor recurrence and metastasis. Furthermore, this treatment profoundly shifted the tumor immune landscape to a tumoricidal one, eliciting robust tumor-specific T cell priming in vivo. This work highlights a simple and cost-effective approach to generate in situ cancer vaccines for synergistic photodynamic immunotherapy of metastatic cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianqin Wan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan250117, P. R. China
| | - Lulu Ren
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou310027, P. R. China
| | - Shasha He
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore637457, Singapore
| | - Yang Fu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310016, P. R. China
| | - Peirong Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou310027, P. R. China
| | - Fanchao Meng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
| | - Shiyun Xian
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
| | - Kanyi Pu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore637457, Singapore
| | - Hangxiang Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou310003, P. R. China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan250117, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Emerging peptide-based nanovaccines: From design synthesis to defense against cancer and infection. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114117. [PMID: 36528914 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based vaccines, which form one of the most potent vaccine platforms, offer exclusive advantages over classical vaccines that use whole organisms or proteins. However, peptides alone are still poor stability and weak immunogenicity, thus need a delivery system that can overcome these shortcomings. Currently, nanotechnology has been extensively utilized to address this issue. Nanovaccines, as new formulations of vaccines using nanoparticles (NPs) as carriers or adjuvants, are undergoing development instead of conventional vaccines. Indeed, peptide-based nanovaccine is a rapidly developing field of research that is emerging out of the confluence of antigenic peptides with the nano-delivery system. In this review, we shed light on the rational design and preparation strategies based on various nanomaterials of peptide-based nanovaccines, and we spotlight progress in the development of peptide-based nanovaccines against cancer and infectious diseases. Finally, the future prospects for development of peptide-based nanovaccines are presented.
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhu M, Li S, Cao X, Rashid K, Liu T. The STAT family: Key transcription factors mediating crosstalk between cancer stem cells and tumor immune microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 88:18-31. [PMID: 36410636 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins compose a family of transcription factors critical for cancer stem cells (CSCs), and they are involved in maintaining stemness properties, enhancing cell proliferation, and promoting metastasis. Recent studies suggest that STAT proteins engage in reciprocal communication between CSCs and infiltrate immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Emerging evidence has substantiated the influence of immune cells, including macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and T cells, on CSC survival through the regulation of STAT signaling. Conversely, dysregulation of STATs in CSCs or immune cells contributes to the establishment of an immunosuppressive TME. Thus, STAT proteins are promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, especially when used in combination with immunotherapy. From this perspective, we discuss the complex roles of STATs in CSCs and highlight their functions in the crosstalk between CSCs and the immune microenvironment. Finally, cutting-edge clinical trial progress with STAT signaling inhibitors is summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suyao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of STAT3 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Lung Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122787. [PMID: 36559280 PMCID: PMC9781630 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a common malignancy worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an important transcription factor that not only regulates different hallmarks of cancer, such as tumorigenesis, cell proliferation, and metastasis but also regulates the occurrence and maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Abnormal STAT3 activity has been found in a variety of cancers, including lung cancer, and its phosphorylation level is associated with a poor prognosis of lung cancer. Therefore, the STAT3 pathway may represent a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of lung cancer. To date, various types of STAT3 inhibitors, including natural compounds, small molecules, and gene-based therapies, have been developed through direct and indirect strategies, although most of them are still in the preclinical or early clinical stages. One of the main obstacles to the development of STAT3 inhibitors is the lack of an effective targeted delivery system to improve their bioavailability and tumor targetability, failing to fully demonstrate their anti-tumor effects. In this review, we will summarize the recent advances in STAT3 targeting strategies, as well as the applications of nanoparticle-mediated targeted delivery of STAT3 inhibitors in the treatment of lung cancer.
Collapse
|
16
|
Yin Q, Wang Y, Xiang Y, Xu F. Nanovaccines: Merits, and diverse roles in boosting antitumor immune responses. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2119020. [PMID: 36170662 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2119020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An attractive type of cancer immunotherapy is cancer therapeutic vaccines that induce antitumor immunity effectively. Although supportive results in the recent vaccine studies, there are still numerous drawbacks, such as poor stability, weak immunogenicity and strong toxicity, to be tackled for promoting the potency and durability of antitumor efficacy. NPs (Nanoparticles)-based vaccines offer unique opportunities to breakthrough the current bottleneck. As a rule, nanovaccines are new the generations of vaccines that use NPs as carriers and/or adjuvants. Several advantages of nanovaccines are constantly explored, including optimal nanometer size, high stability, plenty of antigen loading, enhanced immunogenicity, tunable antigen presentation, more retention in lymph nodes and promote patient compliance by a lower frequency of dosing. Here, we summarized the merits and highlight the diverse role nanovaccines play in improving antitumor responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiliang Yin
- Department of Cadre Ward, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Academy of Health Management, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yipeng Xiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yang R, Yu S, Xu T, Zhang J, Wu S. Emerging role of RNA sensors in tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:43. [PMID: 35413927 PMCID: PMC9006576 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01261-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA sensors detect foreign and endogenous RNAs to protect the host by initiating innate and adaptive immune response. In tumor microenvironment (TME), activation of RNA sensors induces tumor-inhibitory cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses and inhibits the activity of immunosuppressive cells though stimulating type I IFN signaling pathway. These characteristics allow RNA sensors to be prospective targets in tumor immunotherapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the roles of RNA sensors in TME could provide new insight into the antitumor immunotherapy. Moreover, RNA sensors could be prominent triggering targets to synergize with immunotherapies. In this review, we highlight the diverse mechanisms of RNA sensors in cancer immunity and their emerging contributions in cancer immunotherapy, including monotherapy with RNA sensor agonists, as well as combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immune checkpoint blockade or cancer vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihui Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sufang Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|