Role of Regulatory B Cells in the Progression of Cervical Cancer

TRAF3 loss-of-function reveals the noncanonical NF-κB pathway as a therapeutic target in diffuse large B cell lymphoma

Here, we report recurrent focal deletions of the chr14q32.31-32 locus, including TRAF3, a negative regulator of NF-κB signaling, in de novo diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (24/324 cases). Integrative analysis revealed an association between TRAF3 copy number loss with accumulation of NIK, the central noncanonical (NC) NF-κB kinase, and increased NC NF-κB pathway activity. Accordingly, TRAF3 genetic ablation in isogenic DLBCL model systems caused upregulation of NIK and enhanced NC NF-κB downstream signaling. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of NIK in TRAF3-deficient cells differentially impaired their proliferation and survival, suggesting an acquired onco-addiction to NC NF-κB. TRAF3 ablation also led to exacerbated secretion of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10. Coculturing of TRAF3-deficient DLBCL cells with CD8+ T cells impaired the induction of Granzyme B and interferon (IFN) γ, which were restored following neutralization of IL-10. Our findings corroborate a direct relationship between TRAF3 genetic alterations and NC NF-κB activation, and highlight NIK as a potential therapeutic target in a defined subset of DLBCL.

Breg-Mediated Immunoregulation in the Skin

Wound healing is a complex process involving a coordinated series of events aimed at restoring tissue integrity and function. Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are a subset of B lymphocytes that play an essential role in fine-tuning immune responses and maintaining immune homeostasis. Recent studies have suggested that Bregs are important players in cutaneous immunity. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of Bregs in skin immunity in health and pathology, such as diabetes, psoriasis, systemic sclerosis, cutaneous lupus erythematosus, cutaneous hypersensitivity, pemphigus, and dermatomyositis. We discuss the mechanisms by which Bregs maintain tissue homeostasis in the wound microenvironment through the promotion of angiogenesis, suppression of effector cells, and induction of regulatory immune cells. We also mention the potential clinical applications of Bregs in promoting wound healing, such as the use of adoptive Breg transfer.

The dichotomy of regulatory B cells in cancer versus allergic disease

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are an immunosuppressive cell phenotype that affects the immune system by limiting the inflammatory cascade. Dysregulation of Bregs can interestingly play a dichotomous role in the pathophysiology of many diseases and is especially highlighted when examining cancer pathology compared to allergic disease. This study reviews the existing literature on Bregs and compares their role in allergic disease in contrast to cancer development. Upregulation of Bregs in cancer states has been associated with poor prognostic outcomes across various cancer types, and Breg proliferation was associated with chronic interferon signaling, activation of the BCR-BTK (B cell receptor-Bruton's tyrosine kinase) pathway, and release of C-X-C motif ligand 13. In contrast, Breg dysfunction has been identified as a key mechanism in many allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. Development of Breg-targeted immunotherapies is currently at the preclinical level, but strategies differentially focus on Breg depletion in cancer versus Breg stimulation in allergy. Our review highlights the divergent functions that Bregs play in cancer compared to allergy. We conclude that natural homeostasis hinges on a fine balance between the dichotomous role of Bregs-over or underactivation can result in a pathological state.

Comprehensive analysis of autophagy associated genes and immune infiltrates in cervical cancer

Objectives

Cervical cancer (CC) is the most common gynecological malignant tumor and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in women. The progression of CC is significantly affected by autophagy. Our objective was to use bioinformatics analysis to explore the expression, prognostic significance, and immune infiltration of autophagy-related genes in CC.

Materials and Methods

We identified a set of autophagy-related differentially expressed genes (ARDEGs) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. ARDEGs were further validated by The Human Protein Atlas (HPA), GSE52903, and GSE39001 dataset. Hub genes were found by the STRING network and Cytoscape. We performed Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), Gene ontology analysis (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, and immune infiltration analysis to further understand the functions of the hub genes. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were used to check the hub genes.

Results

A total of 10 up-regulated (CXCR4, BAX, SPHK1, EIF2AK2, TBK1, TNFSF10, ITGB4, CDKN2A, IL24, and BIRC5) and 19 down-regulated (PINK1, ATG16L2, ATG4D, IKBKE, MLST8, MAPK3, ERBB2, ULK3, TP53INP2, MTMR14, BNIP3, FOS, CCL2, FAS, CAPNS1, HSPB8, PTK6, FKBP1B , and DNAJB1) ARDEGs were identified. The ARDEGs were enriched in cell growth, apoptosis, human papillomavirus infection, and cytokine-mediated. Then, we found that low expression of MAPK3 was associated with poor prognosis in CC patients and was significantly enriched in immune pathways. In addition, the expression of MAPK3 was significantly positively correlated with the infiltration levels of macrophages, B cells, mast cell activation, and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Furthermore, MAPK3 was positively correlated with LGALS9, and negatively correlated with CTLA4 and CD40.

Conclusion

Our results show that MAPK3 can be used as a new prognostic biomarker to predict the prognosis of patients with CC.

Exploring the dual role of B cells in solid tumors: implications for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

In the tumor milieu of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), distinct B cell subpopulations are present, which exert either pro- or anti-tumor activities. Multiple factors, including hypoxia, cytokines, interactions with tumor cells, and other immune infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), alter the equilibrium between the dual roles of B cells leading to cancerogenesis. Certain B cell subsets in the tumor microenvironment (TME) exhibit immunosuppressive function. These cells are known as regulatory B (Breg) cells. Breg cells suppress immune responses by secreting a series of immunosuppressive cytokines, including IL-10, IL-35, TGF-β, granzyme B, and adenosine or dampen effector TILs by intercellular contacts. Multiple Breg phenotypes have been discovered in human and mouse cancer models. However, when compartmentalized within a tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS), B cells predominantly play anti-tumor effects. A mature TLS contains a CD20+ B cell zone with several important types of B cells, including germinal-center like B cells, antibody-secreting plasma cells, and memory B cells. They kill tumor cells via antibody-dependent cytotoxicity and phagocytosis, and local complement activation effects. TLSs are also privileged sites for local T and B cell coordination and activation. Nonetheless, in some cases, TLSs may serve as a niche for hidden tumor cells and indicate a bad prognosis. Thus, TIL-B cells exhibit bidirectional immune-modulatory activity and are responsive to a variety of immunotherapies. In this review, we discuss the functional distinctions between immunosuppressive Breg cells and immunogenic effector B cells that mature within TLSs with the focus on tumors of HNSCC patients. Additionally, we review contemporary immunotherapies that aim to target TIL-B cells. For the development of innovative therapeutic approaches to complement T-cell-based immunotherapy, a full understanding of either effector B cells or Breg cells is necessary.

Immune microenvironment of cervical cancer and the role of IL-2 in tumor promotion

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous mixture of resident and tumor cells that maintain close communication through their secretion products. The composition of the TME is dynamic and complex among the different types of cancer, where the immune cells play a relevant role in the elimination of tumor cells, however, under certain circumstances they contribute to tumor development. In cervical cancer (CC) the human papilloma virus (HPV) shapes the microenvironment in order to mediate persistent infections that favors transformation and tumor development. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an important TME cytokine that induces CD8+ effector T cells and NKs to eliminate tumor cells, however, IL-2 can also suppress the immune response through Treg cells. Recent studies have shown that CC cells express the IL-2 receptor (IL-2R), that are induced to proliferate at low concentrations of exogenous IL-2 through alterations in the JAK/STAT pathway. This review provides an overview of the main immune cells that make up the TME in CC, as well as the participation of IL-2 in the tumor promotion. Finally, it is proposed that the low density of IL-2 produced by immunocompetent cells is used by tumor cells through its IL-2R as a mechanism to proliferate simultaneously depleting this molecule in order to evade immune response.

Differentially activated B cells develop regulatory phenotype and show varying immunosuppressive features: a comparative study

Regulatory B lymphocytes (Bregs) are B cells with well-pronounced immunosuppressive properties, allowing them to suppress the activity of effector cells. A broad repertoire of immunosuppressive mechanisms makes Bregs an attractive tool for adoptive cell therapy for diseases associated with excessive activation of immune reactions. Such therapy implies Breg extraction from the patient's peripheral blood, ex vivo activation and expansion, and further infusion into the patient. At the same time, the utility of Bregs for therapeutic approaches is limited by their small numbers and extremely low survival rate, which is typical for all primary B cell cultures. Therefore, extracting CD19+ cells from the patient's peripheral blood and specifically activating them ex vivo to make B cells acquire a suppressive phenotype seems to be far more productive. It will allow a much larger number of B cells to be obtained initially, which may significantly increase the likelihood of successful immunosuppression after adoptive Breg transfer. This comparative study focuses on finding ways to efficiently manipulate B cells in vitro to differentiate them into Bregs. We used CD40L, CpG, IL4, IL21, PMA, and ionomycin in various combinations to generate immunosuppressive phenotype in B cells and performed functional assays to test their regulatory capacity. This work shows that treatment of primary B cells using CD40L + CpG + IL21 mix was most effective in terms of induction of functionally active regulatory B lymphocytes with high immunosuppressive capacity ex vivo.

B cells: The many facets of B cells in allergic diseases

B cells play a key role in our immune system through their ability to produce antibodies, suppress a proinflammatory state, and contribute to central immune tolerance. We aim to provide an in-depth knowledge of the molecular biology of B cells, including their origin, developmental process, types and subsets, and functions. In allergic diseases, B cells are well known to induce and maintain immune tolerance through the production of suppressor cytokines such as IL-10. Similarly, B cells protect against viral infections such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that caused the recent coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Considering the unique and multifaceted functions of B cells, we hereby provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of B-cell biology and its clinical applications in allergic diseases, organ transplantation, and cancer.

TIME Is Ticking for Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer (CC) is a major health problem among reproductive-age females and comprises a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the major risk factor associated with CC incidence. However, lifestyle is also a critical factor in CC pathogenesis. Despite HPV vaccination introduction, the incidence of CC is increasing worldwide. Therefore, it becomes critical to understand the CC tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) to develop immune cell-based vaccination and immunotherapeutic approaches. The current article discusses the immune environment in the normal cervix of adult females and its role in HPV infection. The subsequent sections discuss the alteration of different immune cells comprising CC TIME and their targeting as future therapeutic approaches.

Tumor microenvironment promotes lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer: its mechanisms and clinical implications

Although previous studies have shed light on the etiology of cervical cancer, metastasis of advanced cervical cancer remains the main reason for the poor outcome and high cancer-related mortality rate. Cervical cancer cells closely communicate with immune cells recruited to the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The crosstalk between tumors and immune cells has been clearly shown to foster metastatic dissemination. Therefore, unraveling the mechanisms of tumor metastasis is crucial to develop more effective therapies. In this review, we interpret several characteristics of the TME that promote the lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer, such as immune suppression and premetastatic niche formation. Furthermore, we summarize the complex interactions between tumor cells and immune cells within the TME, as well as potential therapeutic strategies to target the TME.

The Regulation between CD4+CXCR5+ Follicular Helper T (Tfh) Cells and CD19+CD24hiCD38hi Regulatory B (Breg) Cells in Gastric Cancer

Purpose

T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and regulatory B (Breg) cells are reported to play essential roles in humoral immunity, especially in inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Hence, we sought to investigate the involvement of CXCR5⁺CD4⁺ Tfh cells and CD19⁺CD24^hiCD38^hi Breg cells in gastric cancer.

Methods

The blood samples were obtained from 36 gastric cancer patients and 18 healthy individuals. The percentage of Tfh cells (Tfh%) and Breg cells (Breg%) was detected via flow cytometry, while IL-21, IL-10, and CXCL13 levels were examined with ELISA. The association between them and clinical parameters of patients was also assessed. The in vitro Tfh-B cell coculture experiments were performed for six days, and then, Tfh%, Breg%, and cytokines were valued by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively.

Results

Tfh%, Breg%, and CXCL13 level were significantly increased among gastric cancer patients. Moreover, higher Tfh% was associated with lymphatic metastasis, patients' worse outcomes and Breg%. Tfh differentiation and CXCL13 were upregulated by cocultured B cells in vitro, while Tfh cells seem to not participate in Breg cell differentiation from B cells.

Conclusion

Altogether, increased Tfh and Breg cells could be involved in immune suppression in gastric cancer. Moreover, B cell may be a potential regulator for Tfh differentiation, while Tfh cells had no significant effects on the regulation of Breg cells.

Review Article: Immune Landscape and Immunotherapy Options in Cervical Carcinoma

Simple Summary

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers with a high mortality rate, especially in women of reproductive age. A lot of treatment modalities are being used in clinical practice but they come with a wide range of toxic side effects, the relapse of cancer, and a low disease-free survival rate. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment landscape of cervical cancer as it focuses majorly on agents that stimulate the body’s own immune system against tumor cells. A deeper understanding of immune system players and immune perturbations in the onset and progression of cervical cancer can pave the way to better treatment with zero relapse. Immunotherapy holds the key to a cancer-free future. This review summarizes the immune players that are perturbed in cervical cancer, and immunotherapy options that are being exploited, alone or in combination, for the treatment of cervical carcinoma in women.

Abstract

Carcinoma of the cervix is one of the most common cancers that claims women’s lives every year. Despite preventive HPV vaccines and conventional cancer treatments, approximately 273,000 women succumb to cervical carcinoma every year. Immune system perturbations help malignant cells in immune evasion, tumor establishment, invasion, and metastasis. An insight into immune system players that promote or suppress cervical cancer is important for the development of more targeted therapies with the fewest side effects. Immunotherapy has emerged as the most compliant approach to target cancer because it utilizes a natural course of action to stimulate the immune system against cancer cells. The major immunotherapy approaches for cervical carcinoma include monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockade therapy, adoptive cell transfer therapies, and oncolytic viruses. In October 2021 the FDA approved pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy or bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for cervical cancer. A recent breakthrough has been made in the cancer immunotherapy regimen in which a monoclonal antibody dostarlimab was able to completely cure all colorectal cancer patients, with disease-free progression after 6 months and counting. This creates hope that immunotherapy may prove to be the final nail in the coffin of this centuries-long prevalent disease of “cancer”.

Neutrophils: Musketeers against immunotherapy

Neutrophils, the most copious leukocytes in human blood, play a critical role in tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and immune suppression. Recently, neutrophils have attracted the attention of researchers, immunologists, and oncologists because of their potential role in orchestrating immune evasion in human diseases including cancer, which has led to a hot debate redefining the contribution of neutrophils in tumor progression and immunity. To make this debate fruitful, this review seeks to provide a recent update about the contribution of neutrophils in immune suppression and tumor progression. Here, we first described the molecular pathways through which neutrophils aid in cancer progression and orchestrate immune suppression/evasion. Later, we summarized the underlying molecular mechanisms of neutrophil-mediated therapy resistance and highlighted various approaches through which neutrophil antagonism may heighten the efficacy of the immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Finally, we have highlighted several unsolved questions and hope that answering these questions will provide a new avenue toward immunotherapy revolution.

Construction of a Six-Gene Prognostic Risk Model Related to Hypoxia and Angiogenesis for Cervical Cancer

Background: The prognosis of cervical cancer (CC) is poor and not accurately reflected by the primary tumor node metastasis staging system. Our study aimed to develop a novel survival-prediction model.

Methods: Hallmarks of CC were quantified using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and univariate Cox proportional hazards analysis. We linked gene expression, hypoxia, and angiogenesis using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was combined with the random forest algorithm to construct a prognostic model. We further evaluated the survival predictive power of the gene signature using Kaplan-Meier analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results: Hypoxia and angiogenesis were the leading risk factors contributing to poor overall survival (OS) of patients with CC. We identified 109 candidate genes using WGCNA and univariate Cox regression. Our established prognostic model contained six genes (MOCSI, PPP1R14A, ESM1, DES, ITGA5, and SERPINF1). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that high-risk patients had worse OS (hazard ratio = 4.63, p < 0.001). Our model had high predictive power according to the ROC curve. The C-index indicated that the risk score was a better predictor of survival than other clinicopathological variables. Additionally, univariate and multivariate Cox regressions indicated that the risk score was the only independent risk factor for poor OS. The risk score was also an independent predictor in the validation set (GSE52903). Bivariate survival prediction suggested that patients exhibited poor prognosis if they had high z-scores for hypoxia or angiogenesis and high risk scores.

Conclusions: We established a six-gene survival prediction model associated with hypoxia and angiogenesis. This novel model accurately predicts survival and also provides potential therapeutic targets.

Immunological Aspects of Human Papilloma Virus-Related Cancers Always Says, “I Am like a Box of Complexity, You Never Know What You Are Gonna Get”

The human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause different cancers in both men and women. The virus interferes with functions of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus in the anogenital area, breast, and head and neck cancer due to the local lesions. The tumors lead to death if not treated as a result of distant metastasis to internal organs and brain. Moreover, HPV attenuates the immune system during chronic infection and releases viral antigens into the tumor microenvironment. The tumors know how difficult is to win the battle with a strong united army of immune cells that are equipped with cytokines and enzymes. They confuse the immune cells with secreting viral antigens. The immune system is equipped with cytokines, a complement system, antibodies, and other secretory proteins to overcome the foreign invaders and viral antigens. However, the majority of the time, tumors win the battle without having all the equipment of the immune cells. Thus, in this review, we describe the recent progression in cellular and humoral immunity studies during the progression of HPV-related cancers. First of all, we describe the role of B, plasmoid cells, and B regulatory cells (Breg) in their functions in the tumor microenvironment. Then, different subtypes of T cells such as T CD8, CD4, T regulatory (Treg) cells were studied in recently published papers. Furthermore, NK cells and their role in tumor progression and prevention were studied. Finally, we indicate the breakthroughs in immunotherapy techniques for HPV-related cancers.

B Cell Function in the Tumor Microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous, complex organization composed of tumor, stroma, and endothelial cells that is characterized by cross talk between tumor and innate and adaptive immune cells. Over the last decade, it has become increasingly clear that the immune cells in the TME play a critical role in controlling or promoting tumor growth. The function of T lymphocytes in this process has been well characterized. On the other hand, the function of B lymphocytes is less clear, although recent data from our group and others have strongly indicated a critical role for B cells in antitumor immunity. There are, however, a multitude of populations of B cells found within the TME, ranging from naive B cells all the way to terminally differentiated plasma cells and memory B cells. Here, we characterize the role of B cells in the TME in both animal models and patients, with an emphasis on dissecting how B cell heterogeneity contributes to the immune response to cancer.

"Mechanisms of induction of regulatory B cells in the tumour microenvironment and their contribution to immunosuppression and pro-tumour responses"

The presence of tumour-infiltrating immune cells was originally associated with the induction of anti-tumour responses and good a prognosis. A more refined characterization of the tumour microenvironment has challenged this original idea and evidence now exists pointing to a critical role for immune cells in the modulation of anti-tumour responses and the induction of a tolerant pro-tumour environment. The coordinated action of diverse immunosuppressive populations, both innate and adaptive, shapes a variety of pro-tumour responses leading to tumour progression and metastasis. Regulatory B cells have emerged as critical modulators and suppressors of anti-tumour responses. As reported in autoimmunity and infection studies, Bregs are a heterogeneous population with diverse phenotypes and different mechanisms of action. Here we review recent studies on Bregs from animal models and patients, covering a variety of types of cancer. We describe the heterogeneity of Bregs, the cellular interactions they make with other immune cells and the tumour itself, and their mechanism of suppression that enables tumour escape. We also discuss the potential therapeutic tools that may inhibit Bregs function and promote anti-tumour responses.

B cells and tumor immune escape

B lymphocyte is an important component of the human immune system and it has a role in the process of the body's specific immunity. In recent years, the research on B cells and tumor immune escape has rapidly progressed. Studies have shown that different types of B cells play different roles in tumor microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms. B cells in the tertiary lymphatic structure promote anti-tumor immunity, while regulatory B cells promote tumor immune escape. Antibody drugs targeting B cells are a promising direction for tumor immunotherapy.

Construction, expression, and in vitro assembly of virus-like particles of L1 protein of human papillomavirus type 52 in Escherichia coli BL21 DE3

Background

A major discovery in human etiology recognized that cervical cancer is a consequence of an infection caused by some mucosatropic types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Since L1 protein of HPV is able to induce the formation of neutralizing antibodies, it becomes a protein target to develop HPV vaccines. Therefore, this study aims to obtain and analyze the expression of HPV subunit recombinant protein, namely L1 HPV 52 in E. coli BL21 DE3. The raw material used was L1 HPV 52 protein, while the synthetic gene, which is measured at 1473 bp in pD451-MR plasmid, was codon-optimized (ATUM) and successfully integrated into 5643 base pairs (bps) of pETSUMO. Bioinformatic studies were also conducted to analyze B cell epitope, T cell epitope, and immunogenicity prediction for L1HPV52 protein.

Results

The pETSUMO-L1HPV52 construct was successfully obtained in a correct ligation size when it was cut with EcoRI. Digestion by EcoRI revealed a size of 5953 and 1160 bps for both TA cloning petSUMO vector and gene of interest, respectively. Furthermore, the right direction of construct pETSUMO-L1HPV52 was proven by PCR techniques using specific primer pairs then followed by sequencing, which shows 147 base pairs. Characterization of L1 HPV 52 by SDS-PAGE analysis confirms the presence of a protein band at a size of ~55 kDa with 6.12 mg/L of total protein concentration. Observation under by transmission electron microscope demonstrates the formation of VLP-L1 at a size between 30 and 40 nm in assembly buffer under the condition of pH 5.4. Based on bioinformatics studies, we found that there are three B cell epitopes (GFPDTSFYNPET, DYLQMASEPY, KEKFSADLDQFP) and four T cell epitopes (YLQMASEPY, PYGDSLFFF, DSLFFFLRR, MFVRHFFNR). Moreover, an immunogenicity study shows that among all the T cell epitopes, the one that has the highest affinity value is DSLFFFLRR for Indonesian HLAs.

Conclusion

Regarding the achievement on successful formation of L1 HPV52-VLPs, followed by some possibilities found from bioinformatics studies, this study suggests promising results for future development of L1 HPV type 52 vaccine in Indonesia.

The role of B cells in the development, progression, and treatment of lymphomas and solid tumors

B cells are integral components of the mammalian immune response as they have the ability to generate antibodies against an almost infinite array of antigens. Over the past several decades, significant scientific progress has been made in understanding that this enormous B cell diversity contributes to pathogen clearance. However, our understanding of the humoral response to solid tumors and to tumor-specific antigens is unclear. In this review, we first discuss how B cells interact with other cells in the tumor microenvironment and influence the development and progression of various solid tumors. The ability of B lymphocytes to generate antibodies against a diverse repertoire of antigens and subsequently tailor the humoral immune response to specific pathogens relies on their ability to undergo genomic alterations during their development and differentiation. We will discuss key transforming events that lead to the development of B cell lymphomas. Overall, this review provides a foundation for innovative therapeutic interventions for both lymphoma and solid tumor malignancies.

The role of Tim-3/Galectin-9 pathway in T-cell function and prognosis of patients with human papilloma virus-associated cervical carcinoma

The interaction between Tim-3 on T cell and its ligand, Galectin-9, negatively regulates cellular immune responses. However, the role of Tim-3/Galectin-9 pathway in the immune evasion of cervical cancer remains unknown. This study is to investigate the expression, function, and regulation of Tim-3/Galectin-9 signaling pathway in human papilloma virus (HPV) positive cervical cancer. Flow cytometry showed that Tim-3 expression on T cell and Galectin-9 expression on monocytes in HPV positive cervical cancer patients were significantly higher compared to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and benign uterine fibroids Tim-3 + CD4+ Th1 cells and Tim-3 + CD8+ T cells in HPV positive cervical cancer patients were significantly reduced after surgery. Serum TGF-β and IL-10 levels were positively correlated with Tim-3 + Treg cells, while IFN-γ and IL-2 were negatively correlated with Tim-3 + Th1 cells. Additionally, Tim-3 + CD4+ T cells were positively correlated with Galectin-9 + monocytes. Survival curve analysis showed that Tim-3 + CD4+ T cells were negatively correlated with patient survival, and closely related to FIGO stage, degree of differentiation, and lymph node metastasis of HPV positive cervical cancer. In vitro experiments showed that by blocking the Tim-3/Galectin-9 pathway, the proliferation of T cells and their ability to express IFN-γ, IL-2, perforin, and granzyme B was significantly restored. In conclusion, high levels of Tim-3 and Galectin-9 in HPV positive cervical cancer patients play roles in the progression of disease by promoting Treg cells to inhibit the cytotoxic function of Th1 and CD8+ T cells. Tim-3/Galectin-9 may serve as a new immunotherapy target for patients with HPV positive cervical cancer.

Informing the new developments and future of cancer immunotherapy : Future of cancer immunotherapy

The application of cancer immunotherapy (CIT) in reinforcing anti-tumor immunity in response to carcinogenesis and metastasis has shown promising advances, along with new therapeutic challenges, in the landscape of cancer care. To promote tumor growth and metastasis, cancer cells aim to manipulate their microenvironment by mediating a crosstalk with various immune cells through the secretion of chemokines, cytokines, and other associated factors. Understanding this crosstalk is the key to discovering the best targets for improved immunotherapies and clinical strategies in cancer treatment. Here, we review the tumor immune crosstalk in cancer growth and metastasis. This review also highlights the development and expansion of CIT over the years. Moreover, we highlight clinical challenges and limitations involving immune-related adverse events, treating cancer patients with pre-existing autoimmune diseases, and the management of immunotherapy-induced treatment resistance. Possible clinical solutions to these current challenges in CIT are also proposed. Altogether, this review can contribute to the formation of pre-clinical and treatment-related strategies that further develop the availability and effectiveness of CIT.

Immunosuppressive Mechanisms of Regulatory B Cells

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) is a term that encompasses all B cells that act to suppress immune responses. Bregs contribute to the maintenance of tolerance, limiting ongoing immune responses and reestablishing immune homeostasis. The important role of Bregs in restraining the pathology associated with exacerbated inflammatory responses in autoimmunity and graft rejection has been consistently demonstrated, while more recent studies have suggested a role for this population in other immune-related conditions, such as infections, allergy, cancer, and chronic metabolic diseases. Initial studies identified IL-10 as the hallmark of Breg function; nevertheless, the past decade has seen the discovery of other molecules utilized by human and murine B cells to regulate immune responses. This new arsenal includes other anti-inflammatory cytokines such IL-35 and TGF-β, as well as cell surface proteins like CD1d and PD-L1. In this review, we examine the main suppressive mechanisms employed by these novel Breg populations. We also discuss recent evidence that helps to unravel previously unknown aspects of the phenotype, development, activation, and function of IL-10-producing Bregs, incorporating an overview on those questions that remain obscure.

Progression of Metastasis through Lymphatic System

Lymph nodes are the most common sites of metastasis in cancer patients. Nodal disease status provides great prognostic power, but how lymph node metastases should be treated is under debate. Thus, it is important to understand the mechanisms by which lymph node metastases progress and how they can be targeted to provide therapeutic benefits. In this review, we focus on delineating the process of cancer cell migration to and through lymphatic vessels, survival in draining lymph nodes and further spread to other distant organs. In addition, emerging molecular targets and potential strategies to inhibit lymph node metastasis are discussed.

Current Advance of Immune Evasion Mechanisms and Emerging Immunotherapies in Renal Cell Carcinoma

Renal cell carcinoma is a highly heterogeneous cancer group, and the complex microenvironment of the tumor provides appropriate immune evasion opportunities. The molecular mechanism of immune escape in renal cell carcinoma is currently a hot issue, focusing primarily on the major complex of histocompatibility, immunosuppressive cells, their secreted immunosuppressive cytokines, and apoptosis molecule signal transduction. Immunotherapy is the best treatment option for patients with metastatic or advanced renal cell carcinoma and combination immunotherapy based on a variety of principles has shown promising prospects. Comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanism of immune escape in renal cell carcinoma is of vital importance for the clinical implementation of effective therapies. The goal of this review is to address research into the mechanisms of immune escape in renal cell carcinoma and the use of the latest immunotherapy. In addition, we are all looking forward to the latest frontiers of experimental combination immunotherapy.

Phenotypes, Functions, and Clinical Relevance of Regulatory B Cells in Cancer

In immune system, B cells are classically positive modulators that regulate inflammation and immune responses. Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are a subset of B cells which play crucial roles in various conditions, including infection, allergies, autoimmune diseases, transplantation, and tumors. Until now, unequivocal surface markers for Bregs still lack consensus, although numerous Breg subsets have been identified. Generally, Bregs exert their immunoregulatory functions mainly through cytokine secretion and intercellular contact. In the tumor microenvironment, Bregs suppress effector T cells, induce regulatory T cells and target other tumor-infiltrating immune cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells, natural killer cells and macrophages, to hamper anti-tumor immunity. Meanwhile, the cross-regulations between Bregs and tumor cells often result in tumor escape from immunosurveillance. In addition, accumulating evidence suggests that Bregs are closely associated with many clinicopathological factors of cancer patients and might be potential biomarkers for accessing patient survival. Thus, Bregs are potential therapeutic targets for future immunotherapy in cancer patients. In this review, we will discuss the phenotypes, functions, and clinical relevance of Bregs in cancer.

Immunology of HPV-mediated cervical cancer: current understanding

Human papilloma virus (HPV) has emerged as a primary cause of cervical cancer worldwide. HPV is a relatively small (55 nm in diameter) and non-enveloped virus containing approximately 8 kb long double stranded circular DNA genome. To date, 228 genotypes of HPV have been identified. Although all HPV infections do not lead to the development of malignancy of cervix, only persistent infection of high-risk types of HPV (mainly with HPV16 and HPV18) results in the disease. In addition, the immunity of the patients also acts as a key determinant in the carcinogenesis. Since, no HPV type specific medication is available for the patient suffering with cervical cancer, hence, a deep understanding of the disease etiology may be vital for developing an effective strategy for its prevention and management. From the immunological perspectives, the entire mechanisms of disease progression still remain unclear despite continuous efforts. In the present review, the recent developments in immunology of HPV-mediated cervix carcinoma were discussed. At the end, the prevention of disease using HPV type specific recombinant vaccines was also highlighted.

Cervical Cancer: Emerging Immune Landscape and Treatment

Immune cells are essential for defending the body’s balance and have increasingly been implicated in controlling tumor growth. In cervical cancer (CC), the immune landscape is extensively connected with human papillomavirus (HPV) status. Recent insights from studies have revealed that as a result of infection with HPV, immune cell populations such as lymphocytes or monocytes change during carcinogenesis. Immune therapy, in particular checkpoint inhibitors, those targeting PD-1 or PD-L1, has shown promising efficacy. This article reviews the immune landscape and immunotherapy of CC.

In situ Vaccine Plus Checkpoint Blockade Induces Memory Humoral Response

In a syngeneic murine melanoma (MEL) model, we recently reported an in situ vaccination response to combined radiation (RT) and intra-tumoral (IT) injection of anti-GD2 hu14. 18-IL2 immunocytokine (IC). This combined treatment resulted in 71% complete and durable regression of 5-week tumors, a tumor-specific memory T cell response, and augmented response to systemic anti-CTLA-4 antibody checkpoint blockade. While the ability of radiation to diversify anti-tumor T cell response has been reported, we hypothesize that mice rendered disease-free (DF) by a RT-based ISV might also exhibit a heightened B cell response. C57BL/6 mice were engrafted with 2 × 10⁶ GD2+ B78 MEL and treated at a target tumor size of ~200 mm³ with 12 Gy RT, IT-IC on day (D)6-D10, and anti-CTLA-4 on D3, 6, and 9. Serum was collected via facial vein before tumor injection, before treatment, during treatment, after becoming DF, and following rejection of subcutaneous 2 × 10⁶ B78 MEL re-challenge on D90. Flow cytometry demonstrated the presence of tumor-specific IgG in sera from mice rendered DF and rejecting re-challenge with B78 MEL at D90 after starting treatment. Consistent with an adaptive endogenous anti-tumor humoral memory response, these anti-tumor antibodies bound to B78 cells and parental B16 cells (GD2-), but not to the unrelated syngeneic Panc02 or Panc02 GD2+ cell lines. We evaluated the kinetics of this response and observed that tumor-specific IgG was consistently detected by D22 after initiation of treatment, corresponding to a time of rapid tumor regression. The amount of tumor-specific antibody binding to tumor cells (as measured by flow MFI) did not correlate with host animal prognosis. Incubation of B16 MEL cells in DF serum, vs. naïve serum, prior to IV injection, did not delay engraftment of B16 metastases and showed similar overall survival rates. B cell depletion using anti-CD20 or anti-CD19 and anti-B220 did not impact the efficacy of ISV treatment. Thus, treatment with RT + IC + anti-CTLA-4 results in adaptive anti-tumor humoral memory response. This endogenous tumor-specific antibody response does not appear to have therapeutic efficacy but may serve as a biomarker for an anti-tumor T cell response.