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Zhao J, Zhang X, Li Y, Yu J, Chen Z, Niu Y, Ran S, Wang S, Ye W, Luo Z, Li X, Hao Y, Zong J, Xia C, Xia J, Wu J. Interorgan communication with the liver: novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1314123. [PMID: 38155961 PMCID: PMC10754533 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1314123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a multifunctional organ that plays crucial roles in numerous physiological processes, such as production of bile and proteins for blood plasma, regulation of blood levels of amino acids, processing of hemoglobin, clearance of metabolic waste, maintenance of glucose, etc. Therefore, the liver is essential for the homeostasis of organisms. With the development of research on the liver, there is growing concern about its effect on immune cells of innate and adaptive immunity. For example, the liver regulates the proliferation, differentiation, and effector functions of immune cells through various secreted proteins (also known as "hepatokines"). As a result, the liver is identified as an important regulator of the immune system. Furthermore, many diseases resulting from immune disorders are thought to be related to the dysfunction of the liver, including systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and heart failure. Thus, the liver plays a role in remote immune regulation and is intricately linked with systemic immunity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the liver remote regulation of the body's innate and adaptive immunity regarding to main areas: immune-related molecules secreted by the liver and the liver-resident cells. Additionally, we assessed the influence of the liver on various facets of systemic immune-related diseases, offering insights into the clinical application of target therapies for liver immune regulation, as well as future developmental trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiulu Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jizhang Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqing Niu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuan Ran
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicong Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zilong Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanglin Hao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Junjie Zong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengkun Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
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Ashrafizadeh M, Mohan CD, Rangappa S, Zarrabi A, Hushmandi K, Kumar AP, Sethi G, Rangappa KS. Noncoding RNAs as regulators of STAT3 pathway in gastrointestinal cancers: Roles in cancer progression and therapeutic response. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:1263-1321. [PMID: 36951271 DOI: 10.1002/med.21950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors (cancers of the esophagus, gastric, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum) contribute to a large number of deaths worldwide. STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that promotes the transcription of genes associated with proliferation, antiapoptosis, survival, and metastasis. STAT3 is overactivated in many human malignancies including GI tumors which accelerates tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Research in recent years demonstrated that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a major role in the regulation of many signaling pathways including the STAT3 pathway. The major types of endogenous ncRNAs that are being extensively studied in oncology are microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. These ncRNAs can either be tumor-promoters or tumor-suppressors and each one of them imparts their activity via different mechanisms. The STAT3 pathway is also tightly modulated by ncRNAs. In this article, we have elaborated on the tumor-promoting role of STAT3 signaling in GI tumors. Subsequently, we have comprehensively discussed the oncogenic as well as tumor suppressor functions and mechanism of action of ncRNAs that are known to modulate STAT3 signaling in GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of General Surgery and Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chakrabhavi D Mohan
- Department of Studies in Molecular Biology, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, India
| | - Shobith Rangappa
- Adichunchanagiri Institute for Molecular Medicine, Adichunchanagiri University, Nagamangala Taluk, India
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, Sariyer, Turkey
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Parlar YE, Ayar SN, Cagdas D, Balaban YH. Liver immunity, autoimmunity, and inborn errors of immunity. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:52-67. [PMID: 36744162 PMCID: PMC9896502 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i1.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is the front line organ of the immune system. The liver contains the largest collection of phagocytic cells in the body that detect both pathogens that enter through the gut and endogenously produced antigens. This is possible by the highly developed differentiation capacity of the liver immune system between self-antigens or non-self-antigens, such as food antigens or pathogens. As an immune active organ, the liver functions as a gatekeeping barrier from the outside world, and it can create a rapid and strong immune response, under unfavorable conditions. However, the liver's assumed immune status is anti-inflammatory or immuno-tolerant. Dynamic interactions between the numerous populations of immune cells in the liver are key for maintaining the delicate balance between immune screening and immune tolerance. The anatomical structure of the liver can facilitate the preparation of lymphocytes, modulate the immune response against hepatotropic pathogens, and contribute to some of its unique immunological properties, particularly its capacity to induce antigen-specific tolerance. Since liver sinusoidal endothelial cell is fenestrated and lacks a basement membrane, circulating lymphocytes can closely contact with antigens, displayed by endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, and dendritic cells while passing through the sinusoids. Loss of immune tolerance, leading to an autoaggressive immune response in the liver, if not controlled, can lead to the induction of autoimmune or autoinflammatory diseases. This review mentions the unique features of liver immunity, and dysregulated immune responses in patients with autoimmune liver diseases who have a close association with inborn errors of immunity have also been the emphases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yavuz Emre Parlar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Sefika Nur Ayar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Deniz Cagdas
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Hacettepe University Ihsan Dogramaci Children's Hospital, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Yasemin H Balaban
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey
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Gu X, Chu Q, Ma X, Wang J, Chen C, Guan J, Ren Y, Wu S, Zhu H. New insights into iNKT cells and their roles in liver diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1035950. [PMID: 36389715 PMCID: PMC9643775 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1035950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKTs) are an important part of the immune system. Since their discovery in the 1990s, researchers have gained deeper insights into the physiology and functions of these cells in many liver diseases. NKT cells are divided into two subsets, type I and type II. Type I NKT cells are also named iNKT cells as they express a semi-invariant T cell-receptor (TCR) α chain. As part of the innate immune system, hepatic iNKT cells interact with hepatocytes, macrophages (Kupffer cells), T cells, and dendritic cells through direct cell-to-cell contact and cytokine secretion, bridging the innate and adaptive immune systems. A better understanding of hepatic iNKT cells is necessary for finding new methods of treating liver disease including autoimmune liver diseases, alcoholic liver diseases (ALDs), non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLDs), and liver tumors. Here we summarize how iNKT cells are activated, how they interact with other cells, and how they function in the presence of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Gu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanli Ren
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haihong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Wang YY, Li SY, Chen SQ, Wang LL, Han ZQ. Myeloid-derived Suppressor Cells Activate Liver Natural Killer Cells in a Murine Model in Uveal Melanoma. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:1071-1078. [PMID: 36245024 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2623-3] [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: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Elevated myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in many malignancies are associated with the increased risk for metastases and poor prognosis. Therefore, a mouse model of intraocular melanoma was established to explore how MDSCs influence liver metastases. METHODS In this study, murine B16LS melanoma cells were transplanted into the posterior compartment (PC) of the eye of C57BL/6 mice. Leucocytes from the liver of naive mice and mice bearing melanoma liver metastasis were isolated using isotonic Percoll centrifugation, examined by flow cytometry for their expression of Gr1, CD11b, F4/80, RAE-1, and Mult-1, and further isolated for MDSCs and natural killer (NK) cells. The effects of MDSCs on NK cells were tested by coculturing and assessing the ability of NK cells to produce interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) by ELISA and NK cell cytotoxicity by 3H-thymidine incorporation assay. The impact of IFN-γ on liver metastases was examined via selectively depleting IFN-γ in vivo. RESULTS The results showed that mice with liver metastases had increased levels of CD11b+Gr1+F4/80+ as well as CD11b+Gr1+F4/80- MDSCs. MDSCs significantly enhanced the generation of IFN-γ together with the cytotoxicity of the NK cells. Furthermore, these effects were cell-cell contact-dependent. Although IFN-γ was not of a toxic nature to the melanoma cells, it profoundly inhibited B16LS cell proliferation. Depleting IFN-γ in vivo led to increased liver metastases. CONCLUSION All these findings first revealed that MDSCs accumulated in liver metastasis of intraocular melanoma could activate the NK cells to produce an effective anti-tumor immune response. Thus, the MDSCs' performance in different tumor models would need more investigation to boost current immunotherapy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shuang-Ying Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - San-Qian Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chibi People's Hospital, Chibi, 437300, China
| | - Liang-Liang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Ding C, Zheng Y, Li D, Zhu M, Zhu Y. Up-Regulation of miR-1925 by Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell (BMSC) Inhibits the Growth of Liver Cancer by Promoting the Anti-Tumor Activity of Natural Killer (NK) Cells. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.2920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) seriously threatens human health and life quality. Natural killer (NK) cells play important roles in liver immune function. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) exosomes (Exo) participate in tissue damage. This study explored BMSC-Exo’s effect
on NK cells’ anti-tumor activity. NK cells were isolated from the livers of mice with liver cancer. NK cells with or without BMSC-Exo treatment were co-cultured with liver cancer cells to assess cell proliferation. Administration of BMSC-Exo into mice with liver cancer significantly
suppressed liver cancer cell growth. In addition, BMSC-Exo treatment significantly improved NK cells’ anti-tumor effect whic was related to BMSC-Exo-induced up-regulation of miR-1925. Implantation of BMSC-Exo into mice with liver cancer at different time periods can significantly suppress
liver cancer cell growth. At the same time, BMSC-Exo implantation inhibited the expression of cell proliferation marker protein(Ki67). In vitro study found that BMSC-Exo treatment significantly increased miR-1925 level and the toxicity of NK cells to HCC cells. In addition, miR-1925
overexpression in NK cells significantly increased NK cells’ anti-tumor activity. In conclusion, this study proved that up-regulation of miR-1925 by BMSC can inhibit the growth of liver cancer by promoting the anti-tumor activity of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chencheng Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and SPLENIC Surgery, Changxing County People’s Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313199, China
| | - Yunjie Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and SPLENIC Surgery, Changxing County People’s Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313199, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and SPLENIC Surgery, Changxing County People’s Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313199, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and SPLENIC Surgery, Changxing County People’s Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313199, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oncology, Changxing County People’s Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313199, China
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Wei X, Yang W, Zhang F, Cheng F, Rao J, Lu L. PIGU promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through activating NF-κB pathway and increasing immune escape. Life Sci 2020; 260:118476. [PMID: 32971102 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common malignancy and has the third highest mortality rate among all tumors. Previous studies found that phosphatidylinositol glycan anchor biosynthesis class U (PIGU) was highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while the function of PIGU in HCC remains unknown. Here, we deeply investigated this issue. The expression levels of PIGU in HCC cells were measured by Western blotting. The functions of PIGU in HCC cells were assessed in vitro, followed by assessing the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway-related protein levels. The xenograft mouse models were conducted to investigate the effects of PIGU in vivo. Moreover, the effects of PIGU downregulation on natural killer (NK)-92 cell-mediated cell killing were detected. The results showed that PIGU was highly expressed in HCC cells compared with normal liver cells. Functional studies showed that PIGU promoted viability, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion and suppressed apoptosis in HCC cells. Mechanism studies indicated that PIGU silencing blocked the NF-κB pathway and the blockade of the NF-κB pathway reversed the effects of PIGU overexpression on HCC cell function, including cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. In vivo studies further verified the effects of PIGU on HCC cell function, and demonstrated that PIGU knockdown suppressed tumorigenesis. Additionally, we proved that PIGU downregulation significantly enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to NK-92 cell cytolysis. Collectively, PIGU may promote HCC progression through activating the NF-κB pathway and promoting immune escape, indicating that PIGU may serve as a promising therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wei
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Wenjie Yang
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Feng Cheng
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jianhua Rao
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Ling Lu
- Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Research Unit of Liver Transplantation and Transplant Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing 210029, China.
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8
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Heinrich S, Castven D, Galle PR, Marquardt JU. Translational Considerations to Improve Response and Overcome Therapy Resistance in Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2495. [PMID: 32899197 PMCID: PMC7563159 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, progress in systemic therapies significantly improved the outcome of primary liver cancer. More recently, precision oncological and immunotherapeutic approaches became the focus of intense scientific and clinical research. Herein, preclinical studies showed promising results with high response rates and improvement of overall survival. However, results of phase III clinical trials revealed that only a subfraction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients respond to therapy and display only moderate objective response rates. Further, predictive molecular characteristics are largely missing. In consequence, suitable trial design has emerged as a crucial factor for the success of a novel compound. In addition, increasing knowledge from translational studies indicate the importance of targeting the tumor immune environment to overcome resistance to immunotherapy. Thus, combination of different immunotherapies with other treatment modalities including antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, or local therapies is highly promising. However, the mechanisms of failure to respond to immunotherapy in liver cancer are still not fully understood and the modulation of the immune system and cellular tumor composition is particularly relevant in this context. Altogether, it is increasingly clear that tailoring of immunotherapy and individualized approaches are required to improve efficacy and patient outcome in liver cancer. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge as well as translational considerations to overcome therapy resistance in immunotherapy of primary liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Heinrich
- Laboratory of Human Carcinogenesis, Liver Carcinogenesis Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
- Department of Medicine I, Lichtenberg Research Group for Molecular Hepatocarcinogenesis, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Darko Castven
- Department of Medicine I, Lichtenberg Research Group for Molecular Hepatocarcinogenesis, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
- Lichtenberg Research Group for Molecular Hepatocarcinogenesis, Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Peter R. Galle
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jens U. Marquardt
- Department of Medicine I, Lichtenberg Research Group for Molecular Hepatocarcinogenesis, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
- Lichtenberg Research Group for Molecular Hepatocarcinogenesis, Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
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9
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Tagliamonte M, Mauriello A, Cavalluzzo B, Ragone C, Manolio C, Petrizzo A, Buonaguro L. Tackling hepatocellular carcinoma with individual or combinatorial immunotherapy approaches. Cancer Lett 2019; 473:25-32. [PMID: 31875523 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of death from cancer globally. Indeed, there is a single drug approved as first-line systemic therapy in advanced unresectable HCC, providing a very limited survival benefit. In earlier stages, 5-year survival rates after surgical and loco-regional therapies are extremely variable depending on the stage of disease. Nevertheless, HCC is considered an immunogenic tumor arising in chronically inflamed livers. In such a scenario, immunotherapy strategies for HCC, in particular combinations including cancer vaccines, may represent a key therapeutic tool to improve clinical outcome in HCC patients. However, a lot of improvement is needed given the disappointing results obtained so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tagliamonte
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Mauriello
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Beatrice Cavalluzzo
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Ragone
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Manolio
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Annacarmen Petrizzo
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Buonaguro
- Cancer Immunoregulation Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione Pascale", Naples, Italy.
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10
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Mikulak J, Bruni E, Oriolo F, Di Vito C, Mavilio D. Hepatic Natural Killer Cells: Organ-Specific Sentinels of Liver Immune Homeostasis and Physiopathology. Front Immunol 2019; 10:946. [PMID: 31114585 PMCID: PMC6502999 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is considered a preferential tissue for NK cells residency. In humans, almost 50% of all intrahepatic lymphocytes are NK cells that are strongly imprinted in a liver-specific manner and show a broad spectrum of cellular heterogeneity. Hepatic NK (he-NK) cells play key roles in tuning liver immune response in both physiological and pathological conditions. Therefore, there is a pressing need to comprehensively characterize human he-NK cells to better understand the related mechanisms regulating their effector-functions within the dynamic balance between immune-tolerance and immune-surveillance. This is of particular relevance in the liver that is the only solid organ whose parenchyma is constantly challenged on daily basis by millions of foreign antigens drained from the gut. Therefore, the present review summarizes our current knowledge on he-NK cells in the light of the latest discoveries in the field of NK cell biology and clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Bruni
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Oriolo
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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11
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Matsushita H, Takaki A. Alcohol and hepatocellular carcinoma. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2019; 6:e000260. [PMID: 31139422 PMCID: PMC6505979 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2018-000260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer because it induces hepatocellular carcinoma (among other cancers) in humans. An excessive alcohol intake may result in fatty liver, acute/chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis and eventually lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. It has been reported that alcohol abuse increases the relative risk of hepatocellular carcinoma by 3- to 10-fold. AIM AND METHODS To clarify the known mechanisms of alcohol-related carcinogenesis, we searched Pubmed using the terms alcohol and immune mechanism, alcohol and cancer, and immune mechanism and cancer and summarized the articles as a qualitative review. RESULTS From a clinical perspective, it is well known that alcohol interacts with other factors, such as smoking, viral hepatitis, and diabetes, leading to an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. There are several possible mechanisms through which alcohol may induce liver carcinogenicity, including the mutagenic effects of acetaldehyde and the production of ROS due to the excessive hepatic deposition of iron. Furthermore, it has been reported that alcohol accelerates hepatitis C virus-induced liver tumorigenesis through TLR4 signaling. Despite intense investigations to elucidate the mechanisms, they remain poorly understood. CONCLUSION This review summarizes the recent findings of clinical and pathological studies that have investigated the carcinogenic effects of alcohol in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Matsushita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Akinobu Takaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
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12
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Su Z, Ye X, Shang L. MiR-506 Promotes Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity against Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Targeting STAT3. Yonsei Med J 2019; 60:22-29. [PMID: 30554487 PMCID: PMC6298889 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2019.60.1.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE It is well documented that natural killer (NK) cytotoxicity against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells is impaired in HCC, which might account for the failure of anti-tumor immune response. miRNAs are considered as important regulators for the development and functions of NK cells. However, the entire role of miR-506 in NK cells remains far from being addressed. MATERIALS AND METHODS The expressions of miR-506 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) mRNA in primary NK cells from HCC patients and healthy controls were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. NK cell cytotoxicity was assessed by CFSE/7AAD cytotoxicity assay and lactate dehydrogenase assay. Luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay, and western blot were conducted to confirm the interaction between miR-506 and STAT3. RESULTS miR-506 expression was downregulated and STAT3 mRNA was upregulated in primary NK cells from HCC patients. Primary NK cells from HCC patients showed remarkably reduced cytotoxicity against SMMC7721 or HepG2 cells. NK cell cytotoxicity was positively correlated with miR-506 expression and negatively correlated with STAT3 mRNA expression. Additionally, miR-506 overexpression enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity against HCC cells, while miR-506 inhibitor showed the reverse effect. Moreover, miR-506 could suppress STAT3 expression by directly targeting 3'-untranslated regions of STAT3. A negative correlation between miR-506 and STAT3 mRNA expression in HCC patients was observed. Mechanistically, overexpressing STAT3 greatly reversed miR-506-mediated promotion of NK cell cytotoxicity against HCC cells. CONCLUSION miR-506 enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity against HCC cells by targeting STAT3, suggesting that modulating miR-506 expression maybe a promising approach for enhancing NK cell-based antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiong Su
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
| | - Xinping Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Liming Shang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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13
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Brown ZJ, Heinrich B, Greten TF. Mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma: an overview and highlights for immunotherapy research. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:536-554. [PMID: 29904153 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0033-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mouse models are the basis of preclinical and translational research in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Multiple methods exist to induce tumour formation in mice, including genetically engineered mouse models, chemotoxic agents, intrahepatic or intrasplenic injection of tumour cells and xenograft approaches. Additionally, as HCC generally develops in the context of diseased liver, methods exist to induce liver disease in mice to mimic viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, fibrosis, alcohol-induced liver disease and cholestasis. Similar to HCC in humans, response to therapy in mouse models is monitored with imaging modalities such as CT or MRI, as well as additional techniques involving bioluminescence. As immunotherapy is increasingly applied to HCC, mouse models for these approaches are required for preclinical data. In studying cancer immunotherapy, it is important to consider aspects of antitumour immune responses and to produce a model that mimics the complexity of the immune system. This Review provides an overview of the different mouse models of HCC, presenting techniques to prepare an HCC mouse model and discussing different approaches to help researchers choose an appropriate model for a specific hypothesis. Specific aspects of immunotherapy research in HCC and the applied mouse models in this field are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Brown
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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14
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Gyuleva I, Djounova J, Rupova I. Impact of Low-Dose Occupational Exposure to Ionizing Radiation on T-Cell Populations and Subpopulations and Humoral Factors Included in the Immune Response. Dose Response 2018; 16:1559325818785564. [PMID: 30140179 PMCID: PMC6096692 DOI: 10.1177/1559325818785564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to assess the effects of low-dose occupational exposure on T helper response. One Hundred five employees working in Nuclear Power Plant, Kozloduy, Bulgaria and control group of 32 persons are included in this investigation. Flow cytometry measurements of T-cell populations and subpopulations and natural killer T cells are performed and levels of G, A, and M immunoglobulins and interleukin 2 (IL-2), IL-4, and interferon γ were determined. The data interpreted with regard to cumulative doses, length of service, and age. The results of the present study are not enough to outline a clear impact of occupational radiation exposure on T helper populations. Nevertheless, the observed even slight trends in some lymphocyte’s populations and in cytokines profile give us the reason to assume a possibility of a gradual polarization of T helper 1 to T helper 2 immune response at dose range 100 to 200 mSv. The results of the present study indicate the need to perform a more detailed epidemiological survey including potential confounding and misclassifying factors and possible selection bias that could influence the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Gyuleva
- Radiation Medicine and Emergency, National Centre Radiobiology and Radiation Protection, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Jana Djounova
- Radiation Medicine and Emergency, National Centre Radiobiology and Radiation Protection, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivanka Rupova
- Radiation Medicine and Emergency, National Centre Radiobiology and Radiation Protection, Sofia, Bulgaria
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16
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Wahid B, Ali A, Rafique S, Saleem K, Waqar M, Wasim M, Idrees M. Role of altered immune cells in liver diseases: a review. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2018; 41:377-388. [PMID: 29605453 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells play an important role in controlling liver tumorigenesis, viral hepatitis, liver fibrosis and contribute to pathogenesis of liver inflammation and injury. Accumulating evidence suggests the effectiveness of natural killer (NK) cells and Kupffer cells (KCs) against viral hepatitis, hepatocellular damage, liver fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. Activation of natural killer cells provides a novel therapeutic strategy to cure liver related diseases. This review discusses the emerging roles of immune cells in liver disorders and it will provide baseline data to scientists to design better therapies for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braira Wahid
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shazia Rafique
- Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Komal Saleem
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Waqar
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Wasim
- Department of Medicine, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar KPK, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan; Department of Medicine, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar KPK, Pakistan; Division of Molecular Virology and Diagnostics Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Vice Chancellor Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan.
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17
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Obeid JM, Kunk PR, Zaydfudim VM, Bullock TN, Slingluff CL, Rahma OE. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients: is it ready for prime time? Cancer Immunol Immunother 2018; 67:161-174. [PMID: 29052780 PMCID: PMC11028155 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-017-2082-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer death worldwide. Current treatment options for patients with intermediate and advanced HCC are limited, and there is an unmet need for novel therapeutic approaches. HCC is an attractive target for immunomodulation therapy, since it arises in an inflammatory milieu due to hepatitis B and C infections and cirrhosis. However, a major barrier to the development and success of immunotherapy in patients with HCC is the liver's inherent immunosuppressive function. Recent advances in the field of cancer immunology allowed further characterization of immune cell subsets and function, and created new opportunities for therapeutic modulation of the immune system. In this review, we present the different immune cell subsets involved in potential immune modulation of HCC, discuss their function and clinical relevance, review the variety of immune therapeutic agents currently under investigation in clinical trials, and outline future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Obeid
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Paul R Kunk
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Timothy N Bullock
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Craig L Slingluff
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Osama E Rahma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Harvard Medical School, 450 Brookline Avenue, M1B13, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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18
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Freitas-Lopes MA, Mafra K, David BA, Carvalho-Gontijo R, Menezes GB. Differential Location and Distribution of Hepatic Immune Cells. Cells 2017; 6:cells6040048. [PMID: 29215603 PMCID: PMC5755505 DOI: 10.3390/cells6040048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is one of the main organs in the body, performing several metabolic and immunological functions that are indispensable to the organism. The liver is strategically positioned in the abdominal cavity between the intestine and the systemic circulation. Due to its location, the liver is continually exposed to nutritional insults, microbiota products from the intestinal tract, and to toxic substances. Hepatocytes are the major functional constituents of the hepatic lobes, and perform most of the liver’s secretory and synthesizing functions, although another important cell population sustains the vitality of the organ: the hepatic immune cells. Liver immune cells play a fundamental role in host immune responses and exquisite mechanisms are necessary to govern the density and the location of the different hepatic leukocytes. Here we discuss the location of these pivotal cells within the different liver compartments, and how their frequency and tissular location can dictate the fate of liver immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alice Freitas-Lopes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Kassiana Mafra
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Bruna A David
- Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary. Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Raquel Carvalho-Gontijo
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo B Menezes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
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Han Z, Brown JR, Niederkorn JY. Growth and Metastasis of Intraocular Tumors in Aged Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:2366-76. [PMID: 27138736 PMCID: PMC4857834 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-19156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Since deterioration of the immune apparatus is closely associated with cancer, we examined the effect of aging on the growth and metastasis of intraocular melanomas in mice. Methods Murine B16LS9 melanoma cells were transplanted into the posterior compartment of the eye (vitreous chamber) and intraocular tumor growth and development of liver metastases were evaluated in young (8–10 weeks of age) and old (>18 months of age) mice. Liver metastases were also induced by intrasplenic injection of melanoma cells. Natural killer (NK) cells from the livers of mice harboring liver metastases were evaluated in vitro for their cytolytic activity. Results Tumors grew more rapidly in the eyes of young mice than old mice, yet old mice developed significantly more liver metastases. Increased liver metastasis in old mice was evident even when melanoma cells were injected intrasplenically as a means of bypassing the influence of the ocular immunosuppressive environment. Increased liver metastases in old mice correlated with reduced cytolytic activity of liver NK cells. Lethally irradiated young mice reconstituted with bone marrow from old donors developed significantly more liver metastases than young mice reconstituted with bone marrow from young donors, indicating that bone marrow–derived cells were the root cause of the heightened development of metastases in old mice. Conclusions Aging affects the growth and metastasis of intraocular melanomas. Even though intraocular melanomas grow slower in old mice, the development of liver metastases is exacerbated and correlates with a reduction in liver NK cell activity in the old mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Joseph R Brown
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Jerry Y Niederkorn
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
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20
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Li X, Zhang M, Liu J, Huang Z, Zhao Q, Huang Y, Li X, Gao Z. Intrahepatic NK cells function suppressed in advanced liver fibrosis. Eur J Clin Invest 2016; 46:864-72. [PMID: 27555302 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although numerous epidemiological studies indicate that hepatitis B virus-related liver fibrosis (HBV-LF), particularly cirrhosis, represents the main risk factor for liver cancer development, the mechanisms determining the persistence of fibrosis and liver cancer pathogenesis are still poorly defined. Few studies have investigated the status of NK cells during different stages of HBV-LF. METHODS Liver tissues at least 3 cm away from the tumour site and peripheral blood were obtained simultaneously from 32 HBV-infected patients undergoing surgery for HCC at the medical centre of Sun Yat-sen University. We detected the amount of NK cells and analysed the phenotype and function of NK cells by flow cytometry. RESULTS We found that there was no difference in the amount of circulating and intrahepatic NK cells between early and advanced HBV-LF. However, NKp46 expression on intrahepatic NK cells decreased and productions of IFN-γ and perforin of intrahepatic NK cells declined apparently in patients with advanced HBV-LF. CONCLUSION In the present study, we displayed that in patients with advanced HBV-LF, the expression of NKp46 on intrahepatic NK cells as well as productions of IFN-γ and perforin of intrahepatic NK cells decreased significantly. These results indicated that the immune function of intrahepatic NK cells in patients with advanced HBV-LF was suppressed distinctly, which provided new insight into the potential role of NK cells in the persistence of fibrosis and into the occurrence of HCC following cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanlian Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiyi Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuehua Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,GuangDong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Zhiliang Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,GuangDong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Liu XL, Wang LJ, Zhang S, Li MG, Jiang YY, Yang ZY. Changes in peripheral blood T, NK and B cells and thymus function in patients with HBV-related primary liver cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2016; 24:3381-3390. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v24.i22.3381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore changes in the distribution of peripheral blood T, NK and B cells and thymus function in the occurrence and progression of hepatitis B virus-related primary liver cancer (HBV-PLC).
METHODS: Clinical and laboratory data of 73 HBV-PLV patients, 50 liver cirrhosis (LC) patients and 37 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients were collected at Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University. The distribution of CD3+ T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T, CD3-CD16+CD56+ NK, CD3-CD19+ B cells and the expression of CD31, CD45RA on T cells were detected in peripheral blood of all patients by flow cytometry.
RESULTS: Compared with CHB and LC patients, the percentage and absolute number of lymphocytes declined in HBV-PLC patients (P < 0.001). Compared with LC patients, the numbers of T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T, B (P < 0.001), and NK cells (P = 0.011) significantly decreased in HBV-PLC patients. With regard to Child-Pugh, Okuda, and BCLC stages, the numbers of lymphocytes, T, CD4+ T, and CD8+ T cells were significantly lower in advanced stages than in early stages (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: The immune cells that have anti-tumor effects decrease in the peripheral blood of HBV-PLC patients, which may be due to the reduced thymus function.
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Horst AK, Neumann K, Diehl L, Tiegs G. Modulation of liver tolerance by conventional and nonconventional antigen-presenting cells and regulatory immune cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2016; 13:277-92. [PMID: 27041638 PMCID: PMC4856800 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2015.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a tolerogenic organ with exquisite mechanisms of immune regulation that ensure upkeep of local and systemic immune tolerance to self and foreign antigens, but that is also able to mount effective immune responses against pathogens. The immune privilege of liver allografts was recognized first in pigs in spite of major histo-compatibility complex mismatch, and termed the "liver tolerance effect". Furthermore, liver transplants are spontaneously accepted with only low-dose immunosuppression, and induce tolerance for non-hepatic co-transplanted allografts of the same donor. Although this immunotolerogenic environment is favorable in the setting of organ transplantation, it is detrimental in chronic infectious liver diseases like hepatitis B or C, malaria, schistosomiasis or tumorigenesis, leading to pathogen persistence and weak anti-tumor effects. The liver is a primary site of T-cell activation, but it elicits poor or incomplete activation of T cells, leading to their abortive activation, exhaustion, suppression of their effector function and early death. This is exploited by pathogens and can impair pathogen control and clearance or allow tumor growth. Hepatic priming of T cells is mediated by a number of local conventional and nonconventional antigen-presenting cells (APCs), which promote tolerance by immune deviation, induction of T-cell anergy or apoptosis, and generating and expanding regulatory T cells. This review will focus on the communication between classical and nonclassical APCs and lymphocytes in the liver in tolerance induction and will discuss recent insights into the role of innate lymphocytes in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kristina Horst
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology Center for Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg D-20246, Germany
| | - Katrin Neumann
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology Center for Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg D-20246, Germany
| | - Linda Diehl
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology Center for Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg D-20246, Germany
| | - Gisa Tiegs
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology Center for Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg D-20246, Germany
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Senpuku H, Miyazaki H, Yoshihara A, Yoneda S, Narisawa N, Kawarai T, Nakagawa N, Miyachi M, Tada A, Yoshida G, Shimada M, Ohashi M, Nishimuta M, Kimura Y, Yoshitake Y. CD56(dim)CD16(high) and CD56(bright)CD16(-) cell percentages associated with maximum knee extensor strength and incidence of death in elderly. SPRINGERPLUS 2016; 5:244. [PMID: 27027597 PMCID: PMC4771652 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-1884-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Physical fitness is an indicator of systemic well-being in humans. Little is known about the role of physical fitness for maintaining systemic health in the elderly. Here, we study elderly subjects to determine the relationships between physical fitness and CD56 and CD16 surface NK cell markers on peripheral blood lymphocytes, as well as to analyze the relationship between the surface markers and incidence of death. We selected 253 independent elderly subjects (122 female; 131 male) who were 79–80 years old. Subjects having a higher proportion of CD56dimCD16high within CD56+CD16+ cells, or ration of CD56dimCD16high and CD56dimCD16− cells had a significant positive correlation with maximum bilateral knee extensor strength/weight (kg) (r = 0.425; P < 0.0001 or r = 0.323; P < 0.0001). In contrast, an increased proportion of CD56brightCD16− cells within lymphocyte significantly negatively correlated with the maximum bilateral knee extensor strength/weight (kg) (r = −0.290; P = 0.0004); and these subjects had a significantly lower mortality during the 5 years following measurement of death. Therefore, we found that a synergistic effect of the right and left leg muscle strength was associated with proportion of matured NK and NKT cells and induced a low proportion of CD56brightCD16− cells within lymphocyte. Moreover, the low proportion of CD56brightCD16− cells was associated with incidence of death. In conclusion, measurements of physical fitness, the proportion of CD56dimCD16high within CD56+CD16+ cells, the ratio of CD56dimCD56high and CD56dimCD16− cells, and the proportion of CD56brightC16− cells in lymphocytes are important indicators to check elderly health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenobu Senpuku
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640 Japan
| | - Hideo Miyazaki
- Department of Oral Health Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata 950-2181 Japan
| | - Akihiro Yoshihara
- Department of Oral Health Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata 950-2181 Japan
| | - Saori Yoneda
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640 Japan
| | - Naoki Narisawa
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640 Japan
| | - Taketo Kawarai
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640 Japan
| | - Naoki Nakagawa
- Laboratory of Physical Education, Sports Management Research Center, School of Information-oriented Management, SANNO University, Setagarya-ku, Tokyo 158-8630 Japan
| | - Motohiko Miyachi
- Department of Health Promotion and Exercise, National Institute of Health and Nutrition, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640 Japan
| | - Akio Tada
- Department of Health Science, Hyogo University, Kakogawa, Hyogo 675-0101 Japan
| | - Goichiro Yoshida
- National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Kanoya, Kanoya, Kagoshima 891-2311 Japan
| | - Mieko Shimada
- Laboratory of Physical Education, Chiba College of Health Science, Chiba, Chiba 261-0014 Japan
| | - Masaharu Ohashi
- Faculty of Education and Human Science Physical Education, Health and Sport Science, Institute of Humanities, Social Science and Education, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata 950-2181 Japan
| | - Mamoru Nishimuta
- Laboratory of Physical Education, Chiba College of Health Science, Chiba, Chiba 261-0014 Japan
| | - Yasuo Kimura
- Faculty of Culture and Education, Saga University, Saga, Saga 840-8502 Japan
| | - Yutaka Yoshitake
- National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Kanoya, Kanoya, Kagoshima 891-2311 Japan
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Tagliamonte M, Petrizzo A, Tornesello ML, Ciliberto G, Buonaguro FM, Buonaguro L. Combinatorial immunotherapy strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma. Curr Opin Immunol 2016; 39:103-13. [PMID: 26851637 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2016.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy. The prognosis for HCC patients greatly varies according to the stage at diagnosis. Overall it is poor, with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 5-6%. Immunotherapeutic interventions represent a novel and effective therapeutic tool. However, only few immunotherapy trials for HCC have been conducted so far with contrasting results, suggesting that significant improvements are needed. Indeed, the liver is characterized by a strong intrinsic immune suppressive microenvironment which needs to be counterbalanced with immune stimulatory approaches. Therefore, the implementation of combinatorial protocols combining immune stimulatory strategies with specific immunotherapy approaches could result in a dramatic improvement of efficacy and clinical outcome in HCC patients. The present review aims at describing the state of the art in immunotherapy strategies for HCC and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tagliamonte
- Lab of Molecular Biology & Viral Oncology, Dept Experimental Oncology
| | | | | | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, "Fondazione Pascale" - IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Buonaguro
- Lab of Molecular Biology & Viral Oncology, Dept Experimental Oncology.
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25
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Subleski JJ, Scarzello AJ, Alvord WG, Jiang Q, Stauffer JK, Kronfli A, Saleh B, Back T, Weiss JM, Wiltrout RH. Serum-based tracking of de novo initiated liver cancer progression reveals early immunoregulation and response to therapy. J Hepatol 2015; 63:1181-9. [PMID: 26143441 PMCID: PMC4615530 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver inflammatory diseases associated with cancer promoting somatic oncogene mutations are increasing in frequency. Preclinical cancer models that allow for the study of early tumor progression are often protracted, which limits the experimental study parameters due to time and expense. Here we report a robust inexpensive approach using Sleeping Beauty transposition (SBT) delivery of oncogenes along with Gaussia Luciferase expression vector GLuc, to assess de novo liver tumor progression, as well as the detection of innate immune responses or responses induced by therapeutic intervention. METHODS Tracking de novo liver tumor progression with GLuc was demonstrated in models of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or adenoma (HCA) initiated by hydrodynamic delivery of SBT oncogenes. RESULTS Rising serum luciferase levels correlated directly with increasing liver tumor burden and eventual morbidity. Early detection of hepatocyte apoptosis from mice with MET+CAT transfected hepatocytes was associated with a transient delay in HCC growth mediated by a CD8(+) T-cell response against transformed hepatocytes. Furthermore, mice that lack B cells or macrophages had an increase in TUNEL(+) hepatocytes following liver MET transfection demonstrating that these cells provide protection from MET-induced hepatocyte apoptosis. Treatment with IL-18+IL-12 of mice displaying established HCC decreased tumor burden which was associated with decreased levels of serum luciferase. CONCLUSIONS Hydrodynamic delivery of the SBT vector GLuc to hepatocytes serves as a simple blood-based approach for real-time tracking of pathologically distinct types of liver cancer. This revealed tumor-induced immunologic responses and was beneficial in monitoring the efficacy of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff J. Subleski
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Anthony J. Scarzello
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - W. Gregory Alvord
- Statistical Consulting, Data Management Services, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Qun Jiang
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Jimmy K. Stauffer
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Anthony Kronfli
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Bahara Saleh
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Timothy Back
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Jonathan M. Weiss
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Robert H. Wiltrout
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
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26
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Hong YP, Li ZD, Prasoon P, Zhang Q. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: From basic research to clinical use. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:980-992. [PMID: 25954480 PMCID: PMC4419101 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i7.980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer worldwide with a poor prognosis. Few strategies have been proven efficient in HCC treatment, particularly for those patients not indicated for curative resection or transplantation. Immunotherapy has been developed for decades for cancer control and is attaining more attention as a result of encouraging outcomes of new strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells and immune checkpoint blockade. Right at the front of the new era of immunotherapy, we review the immunotherapy in HCC treatment, from basic research to clinical trials, covering anything from immunomodulators, tumor vaccines and adoptive immunotherapy. The mechanisms, efficacy and safety as well as the approach particulars are unveiled to assist readers to gain a concise but extensive understanding of immunotherapy of HCC.
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27
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Wang Y, Qu A, Wang H. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 in liver diseases. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11:448-55. [PMID: 25798064 PMCID: PMC4366643 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.11164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STAT4 is a member of the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family of molecules that localizes to the cytoplasm. STAT4 regulates various genes expression as a transcription factor after it is phosphorylated, dimerizes and translocates to the nucleus. STAT4 activation is detected virtually in the liver of several mouse models of liver injury, as well as the human liver of chronic liver diseases. STAT4 gene polymorphism has been shown to be associated with the antiviral response in chronic hepatitis C and drug-induced liver injury (DILI), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), HCV-associated liver fibrosis and in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the roles of STAT4 in the pathogeneses of liver diseases are still not understood entirely. This review summarizes the recent advances on the functional roles of STAT4 and its related cytokines in liver diseases, especially in regulating hepatic anti-viral responses, inflammation, proliferation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis. Targeting STAT4 signaling pathway might be a promising strategy in developing therapeutic approaches for treating hepatitis in order to prevent further injury like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- 1. Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034
| | - Aijuan Qu
- 3. Institute of Hypoxic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069 ; 4. Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hua Wang
- 2. Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032
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28
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Sadegh L, Chen PW, Brown JR, Han Z, Niederkorn JY. NKT cells act through third party bone marrow-derived cells to suppress NK cell activity in the liver and exacerbate hepatic melanoma metastases. Int J Cancer 2015; 137:1085-94. [PMID: 25683463 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common intraocular tumor in adults and liver metastasis is the leading cause of death in UM patients. We have previously shown that NKT cell-deficient mice develop significantly fewer liver metastases from intraocular melanomas than do wild-type (WT) mice. Here, we examine the interplay between liver NKT cells and NK cells in resistance to liver metastases from intraocular melanomas. NKT cell-deficient CD1d(-/-) mice and WT C57BL/6 mice treated with anti-CD1d antibody developed significantly fewer liver metastases than WT mice following either intraocular or intrasplenic injection of B16LS9 melanoma cells. The increased number of metastases in WT mice was associated with reduced liver NK cytotoxicity and decreased production of IFN-γ. However, liver NK cell-mediated cytotoxic activity was identical in non-tumor bearing NKT cell-deficient mice and WT mice, indicating that liver metastases were crucial for the suppression of liver NK cells. Depressed liver NK cytotoxicity in WT mice was associated with production of IL-10 by bone marrow-derived liver cells that were neither Kupffer cells nor myeloid-derived suppressor cells and by increased IL-10 receptor expression on liver NK cells. IL-10(-/-) mice had significantly fewer liver metastases than WT mice, but were not significantly different from NKT cell-deficient mice. Thus, development of melanoma liver metastases is associated with upregulation of IL-10 in the liver and an elevated expression of IL-10 receptor on liver NK cells. This impairment of liver NK activity is NKT cell-dependent and only occurs in hosts with melanoma liver metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Sadegh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Peter W Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Joseph R Brown
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Zhiqiang Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jerry Y Niederkorn
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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29
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Umeshappa CS, Zhu Y, Bhanumathy KK, Omabe M, Chibbar R, Xiang J. Innate and adoptive immune cells contribute to natural resistance to systemic metastasis of B16 melanoma. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2015; 30:72-8. [PMID: 25714591 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2014.1736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The greatest hurdle in cancer treatment is the metastasis of primary tumors to distant organs. Our knowledge on how different immune cells, in the absence of exogenous stimulation, prevent tumor metastasis in distant organs is poorly understood. Using a highly metastatic murine lung B16 melanoma cell line BL6-10, we employed naive mice that genetically lack CD4(+) or CD8(+) T cells, or are depleted of dendritic cells (DCs) or natural killer (NK) cells to understand the relative importance of these cells in metastasis prevention. Irrespective of the presence of naïve CD4(+) T, CD8(+) T, DCs, or NK cells, lungs, which act as primary site of predilection for B16 melanoma, readily developed numerous lung BL6-10 melanoma colonies. However, their absence led to B16 melanoma metastasis in variable proportions to distant organs, particularly livers, kidneys, adrenals, ovaries, and hearts. NK cells mediate prevention of BL6-10 metastasis to various organs, especially to livers. Mechanistically, CD40L signaling, a critical factor required for DC licensing and CD8(+) cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses, was required for CD4(+) T cell-mediated prevention of systemic BL6-10 metastasis. These results suggest that the composition and functions of different immune cells in distant tissue microenvironments (distant organs other than primary sites of predilection) robustly mediate natural resistance against melanoma metastasis. Thus, harnessing these immune cells' responses in immunotherapeutics would considerably limit organ metastasis.
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30
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Cheung PFY, Yip CW, Wong NCL, Fong DYT, Ng LWC, Wan AMY, Wong CK, Cheung TT, Ng IOL, Poon RTP, Fan ST, Cheung ST. Granulin-epithelin precursor renders hepatocellular carcinoma cells resistant to natural killer cytotoxicity. Cancer Immunol Res 2014; 2:1209-19. [PMID: 25315249 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-14-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Immunoevasion is an emerging hallmark of cancer. Impairment of natural killer (NK) cytotoxicity is a mechanism to evade host immunosurveillance. Granulin-epithelin precursor (GEP) is a hepatic oncofetal protein regulating growth, invasion, and chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We examined the role of GEP in conferring HCC cells the ability to evade NK cytotoxicity. In HCC cell lines, GEP overexpression reduced, whereas GEP suppression enhanced sensitivity to NK cytotoxicity. GEP downregulated surface expression of MHC class I chain-related molecule A (MICA), ligand for NK stimulatory receptor NK group 2 member D (NKG2D), and upregulated human leukocyte antigen-E (HLA-E), ligand for NK inhibitory receptor CD94/NKG2A. Functionally, GEP augmented production of soluble MICA, which suppressed NK activation. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP9 activity was involved partly in the GEP-regulated MICA shedding from HCC cells. In primary HCCs (n = 80), elevated GEP (P < 0.001), MICA (P < 0.001), and HLA-E (P = 0.089) expression was observed when compared with those in nontumor (n = 80) and normal livers (n = 10). Serum GEP (P = 0.010) and MICA (P < 0.001) levels were higher in patients with HCC (n = 80) than in healthy individuals (n = 30). High serum GEP and/or MICA levels were associated with poor recurrence-free survival (log-rank test, P = 0.042). Importantly, GEP blockade by mAbs sensitized HCC cells to NK cytotoxicity through MICA. In summary, GEP rendered HCC cells resistant to NK cytotoxicity by modulating MICA expression, which could be reversed by GEP blockade using antibody. Serum GEP and MICA levels are prognostic factors and can be used to stratify patients for targeted therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic/drug effects
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Expression
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Histocompatibility Antigens Class I/genetics
- Histocompatibility Antigens Class I/metabolism
- Humans
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/genetics
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/metabolism
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Matrix Metalloproteinases/metabolism
- Mice
- Progranulins
- HLA-E Antigens
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis F Y Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Wai Yip
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nicholas C L Wong
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Daniel Y T Fong
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Linda W C Ng
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Angus M Y Wan
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chun Kwok Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tan To Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Irene O L Ng
- Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ronnie T P Poon
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sheung Tat Fan
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Siu Tim Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Center for Cancer Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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31
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Rybkina VL, Azizova TV, Scherthan H, Meineke V, Doerr H, Adamova GV, Teplyakova OV, Osovets SV, Bannikova MV, Zurochka AV. Expression of blood serum proteins and lymphocyte differentiation clusters after chronic occupational exposure to ionizing radiation. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2014; 53:659-70. [PMID: 25073961 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-014-0556-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess effects of chronic occupational exposure on immune status in Mayak workers chronically exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). The study cohort consists of 77 workers occupationally exposed to external gamma-rays at total dose from 0.5 to 3.0 Gy (14 individuals) and workers with combined exposure (external gamma-rays at total dose range 0.7-5.1 Gy and internal alpha-radiation from incorporated plutonium with a body burden of 0.3-16.4 kBq). The control group consists of 43 age- and sex-matched individuals who never were exposed to IR, never involved in any cleanup operations following radiation accidents and never resided at contaminated areas. Enzyme-linked immunoassay and flow cytometry were used to determine the relative concentration of lymphocytes and proteins. The concentrations of T-lymphocytes, interleukin-8 and immunoglobulins G were decreased in external gamma-exposed workers relative to control. Relative concentrations of NKT-lymphocytes, concentrations of transforming growth factor-β, interferon gamma, immunoglobulins A, immunoglobulins M and matrix proteinase-9 were higher in this group as compared with control. Relative concentrations of T-lymphocytes and concentration of interleukin-8 were decreased, while both the relative and absolute concentration of natural killers, concentration of immunoglobulins A and M and matrix proteinase-9 were increased in workers with combined exposure as compared to control. An inverse linear relation was revealed between absolute concentration of T-lymphocytes, relative and absolute concentration of T-helpers cells, concentration of interferon gamma and total absorbed dose from external gamma-rays in exposed workers. For workers with incorporated plutonium, there was an inverse linear relation of absolute concentration of T-helpers as well as direct linear relation of relative concentration of NKT-lymphocytes to total absorbed red bone marrow dose from internal alpha-radiation. In all, chronic occupational IR exposure of workers induced a depletion of immune cells in peripheral blood of the individuals involved.
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32
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Li YR, Wang JR, Zhang HY, Wu XF, Li SN, Wang L, Wang XY. Dynamic morphological examination and evaluation of biological characteristics of a multinodular liver cancer model in mice. Lab Anim 2013; 48:132-42. [PMID: 24362593 DOI: 10.1177/0023677213516310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Compared with single nodular liver cancer, the prominent biological characteristics of multinodular liver cancer include rapid progression and short survival. Here, we developed a multinodular liver cancer model in mice and assessed the biological characteristics of the resulting neoplasms. H22 hepatoma cells at a dose of 2 × 10(5)/mouse, suspended in 1.6 mL, 0.8 mL, or 200 µL saline were injected via the tail vein of BALB/c mice at a velocity of 200 µL per second. The mice were sacrificed at different time points after injection. And at the time of death the liver, lungs, spleen, kidneys and heart were removed for morphological study. The biological characteristics of the tumor nodules were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. In the mice treated with a large volume injection of H22 cells, by day 7, there was a 100% occurrence of multinodular tumors in the livers, determined by histology. At the time of death, there were 100%, 100%, 37.5% and 37.5% occurrences of tumors in the lungs, kidneys, spleen and heart, respectively. The neoplastic cells in the liver nodules showed pleomorphism, and exhibited high expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), c-myc, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2). In mice treated with a small or medium volume injection, no tumor cells were identified in the livers, spleen, kidneys or heart at any of the examined time points. By day 7 and at the time of death, there was a 100% occurrence of tumor in the lungs. A multinodular liver cancer model in mice was achieved using a large volume injection of H22 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ru Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Department of Pathology, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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33
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Wang H, Chen L. Tumor microenviroment and hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 28 Suppl 1:43-8. [PMID: 23855295 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cross talk between tumor cells and the surrounding peritumoral stroma has been extensively studied as a dynamic system involving the processes of hepatocarcinogenesis, tumor invasion, and metastasis in recent few decades. Besides hepatocytes, liver tumor microenvironments are generally classified into cellular and noncellular components, including hepatic stellate cells, fibroblasts, immune, endothelial, mesenchymal stem cells, together with growth factors, cytokines, extracellular matrix, hormone as well as viruses et al. The noncellular components manipulate hepatocellular carcinoma invasion and metastasis by facilitating epithelial-mesenchymal transition, increasing proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases, and regulating antitumor immunity, etc. Because the main cause of death in hepatocellular carcinoma patients is tumor progression with metastasis, a better understanding of the interplay between hepatocytes and their environment during tumor metastasis may be helpful for the discovery of novel molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Wang
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Hernandez-Alcoceba R, Sangro B, Berraondo P, Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G, Prieto J. Cytokines for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers: clinical experience and new perspectives. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2013; 22:827-41. [PMID: 23594171 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2013.793307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cytokines are key mediators of the immune system and have been proposed as therapeutic agents against cancer, either as recombinant proteins, or as transgenes in gene therapy approaches. Stimulation of immune responses against cancer cells is an appealing method to treat tumors with high risk of relapse and systemic dissemination. AREAS COVERED We provide a critical overview of clinical trials involving the use of cytokines for the treatment of liver, colon and pancreatic cancers. Special attention has been paid to advances in the field of gene therapy and oncolytic viruses. The potential of new developments still in a pre-clinical stage is also discussed. We have revised public sources of information (PubMed, US National Institutes of Health clinical trials database) up to January 2013. EXPERT OPINION The complexity of the immune system and the unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties of cytokines limit the efficacy of these molecules as single agents for the treatment of cancer. Expression from gene therapy vectors, together with new methods of targeting and stabilization, may overcome these hurdles. We believe cytokines will play a crucial role as part of combined approaches, enhancing the action of adoptive cell immunotherapy, oncolytic viruses or biological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Hernandez-Alcoceba
- CIMA, University of Navarra, Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Foundation for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain
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35
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Abstract
Organs such as the liver, uterus and lung possess hallmark immunotolerant features, making these organs important for sustaining self-homeostasis. These organs contain a relatively large amount of negative regulatory immune cells, which are believed to take part in the regulation of immune responses. Because natural killer cells constitute a large proportion of all lymphocytes in these organs, increasing attention has been given to the roles that these cells play in maintaining immunotolerance. Here, we review the distribution, differentiation, phenotypic features and functional features of natural killer cells in these immunotolerant organs, in addition to the influence of local microenvironments on these cells and how these factors contribute to organ-specific diseases.
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Tian Z, Chen Y, Gao B. Natural killer cells in liver disease. Hepatology 2013; 57:1654-62. [PMID: 23111952 PMCID: PMC3573257 DOI: 10.1002/hep.26115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are enriched in lymphocytes within the liver and have unique phenotypic features and functional properties, including tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand-dependent cytotoxicity and specific cytokine profiles. As a key component of innate immunity in the liver, NK cells perform critical roles in host defense against pathogens and tumors through their natural cytotoxicity and cytokine production, and they also act as regulatory cells by engaging in reciprocal interactions with other types of liver cells through cell-to-cell contact and the production of cytokines. Accumulating evidence from the last decade suggests that NK cells play an important role in controlling viral hepatitis, liver fibrosis, and liver tumorigenesis, but also contribute to the pathogenesis of liver injury and inflammation. The characterization of intrahepatic NK cell functions has not only helped us to better understand the pathogenesis of liver disease, but has also revealed new therapeutic targets for managing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Tian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Yongyan Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Kirkwood JM, Butterfield LH, Tarhini AA, Zarour H, Kalinski P, Ferrone S. Immunotherapy of cancer in 2012. CA Cancer J Clin 2012; 62:309-35. [PMID: 22576456 PMCID: PMC3445708 DOI: 10.3322/caac.20132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 310] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunotherapy of cancer has made significant strides in the past few years due to improved understanding of the underlying principles of tumor biology and immunology. These principles have been critical in the development of immunotherapy in the laboratory and in the implementation of immunotherapy in the clinic. This improved understanding of immunotherapy, enhanced by increased insights into the mechanism of tumor immune response and its evasion by tumors, now permits manipulation of this interaction and elucidates the therapeutic role of immunity in cancer. Also important, this improved understanding of immunotherapy and the mechanisms underlying immunity in cancer has fueled an expanding array of new therapeutic agents for a variety of cancers. Pegylated interferon-α2b as an adjuvant therapy and ipilimumab as therapy for advanced disease, both of which were approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for melanoma in March 2011, are 2 prime examples of how an increased understanding of the principles of tumor biology and immunology have been translated successfully from the laboratory to the clinical setting. Principles that guide the development and application of immunotherapy include antibodies, cytokines, vaccines, and cellular therapies. The identification and further elucidation of the role of immunotherapy in different tumor types, and the development of strategies for combining immunotherapy with cytotoxic and molecularly targeted agents for future multimodal therapy for cancer will enable even greater progress and ultimately lead to improved outcomes for patients receiving cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Kirkwood
- Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Gao B, Wang H, Lafdil F, Feng D. STAT proteins - key regulators of anti-viral responses, inflammation, and tumorigenesis in the liver. J Hepatol 2012; 57:430-41. [PMID: 22504331 PMCID: PMC3399024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery in the early 1990s, the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway has been found to play key roles in regulating many key cellular processes such as survival, proliferation, and differentiation. There are seven known mammalian STAT family members: STAT1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, and 6. In the liver, activation of these STAT proteins is critical for anti-viral defense against hepatitis viral infection and for controlling injury, repair, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. The identification of functions for these STAT proteins has increased our understanding of liver disease pathophysiology and treatments, while also suggesting new therapeutic modalities for managing liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Hua Wang
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA, 20892
| | - Fouad Lafdil
- Laboratory of Liver Pathophysiology, INSERM, U955, Créteil, F-94000 France,Université Paris-Est, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S955, Créteil, F-94000 France
| | - Dechun Feng
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA, 20892
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39
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Berzofsky JA. A push-pull vaccine strategy using Toll-like receptor ligands, IL-15, and blockade of negative regulation to improve the quality and quantity of T cell immune responses. Vaccine 2012; 30:4323-7. [PMID: 22115635 PMCID: PMC3319860 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2011] [Revised: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 11/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
We have developed a strategy to optimize the efficacy of vaccines to induce T-cell immunity against chronic viral infections and cancer based on a "push-pull" approach in which we first optimize the antigen structure by increasing the affinity of epitopes for major histocompatibility complex molecules ("epitope enhancement"), then push the response not only in magnitude but also in quality toward the desired response phenotype, using synergistic combinations of cytokines, Toll-like receptor ligands, and costimulatory molecules, and then pull the response by removing the brakes exerted by negative regulatory mechanisms, including regulatory cells, cell surface molecules, and cytokines. Components of this approach show promise in macaque models of AIDS virus infection and in murine models of cancer, and are being developed for human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay A Berzofsky
- Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Building 10, Room 6B-04 (MSC#1578) NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892-1578, USA.
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40
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Kong X, Horiguchi N, Mori M, Gao B. Cytokines and STATs in Liver Fibrosis. Front Physiol 2012; 3:69. [PMID: 22493582 PMCID: PMC3318231 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, or cirrhosis, is a common end-stage condition of many chronic liver diseases after incomplete recovery from hepatocyte damage. During fibrosis progression, hepatocellular damage and inflammation trigger complex cellular events that result in collagen deposition and the disruption of the normal liver architecture. Hepatic stellate cell activation and transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts are key events in liver fibrogenesis. Research findings from cell culture and animal models have revealed that the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (Jak-STAT) signaling pathway, which can be activated by many cytokines, growth factors, and hormones, plays a critical role in hepatic fibrogenesis. This review summarizes the biological significance of diverse cytokines and their downstream signaling protein STATs in hepatic fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoni Kong
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health Bethesda, MD, USA
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41
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Chan T, Back TC, Subleski JJ, Weiss JM, Ortaldo JR, Wiltrout RH. Systemic IL-12 administration alters hepatic dendritic cell stimulation capabilities. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33303. [PMID: 22428016 PMCID: PMC3302816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is an immunologically unique organ containing tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) that maintain an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Although systemic IL-12 administration can improve responses to tumors, the effects of IL-12-based treatments on DC, in particular hepatic DC, remain incompletely understood. In this study, we demonstrate systemic IL-12 administration induces a 2–3 fold increase in conventional, but not plasmacytoid, DC subsets in the liver. Following IL-12 administration, hepatic DC became more phenotypically and functionally mature, resembling the function of splenic DC, but differed as compared to their splenic counterparts in the production of IL-12 following co-stimulation with toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. Hepatic DCs from IL-12 treated mice acquired enhanced T cell proliferative capabilities similar to levels observed using splenic DCs. Furthermore, IL-12 administration preferentially increased hepatic T cell activation and IFNγ expression in the RENCA mouse model of renal cell carcinoma. Collectively, the data shows systemic IL-12 administration enables hepatic DCs to overcome at least some aspects of the inherently suppressive milieu of the hepatic environment that could have important implications for the design of IL-12-based immunotherapeutic strategies targeting hepatic malignancies and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert H. Wiltrout
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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42
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Subleski JJ, Jiang Q, Weiss JM, Wiltrout RH. The split personality of NKT cells in malignancy, autoimmune and allergic disorders. Immunotherapy 2011; 3:1167-84. [PMID: 21995570 PMCID: PMC3230042 DOI: 10.2217/imt.11.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
NKT cells are a heterogeneous subset of specialized, self-reactive T cells, with innate and adaptive immune properties, which allow them to bridge innate and adaptive immunity and profoundly influence autoimmune and malignant disease outcomes. NKT cells mediate these activities through their ability to rapidly express pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines that influence the type and magnitude of the immune response. Not only do NKT cells regulate the functions of other cell types, but experimental evidence has found NKT cell subsets can modulate the functions of other NKT subsets. Depending on underlying mechanisms, NKT cells can inhibit or exacerbate autoimmunity and malignancy, making them potential targets for disease intervention. NKT cells can respond to foreign and endogenous antigenic glycolipid signals that are expressed during pathogenic invasion or ongoing inflammation, respectively, allowing them to rapidly react to and influence a broad array of diseases. In this article we review the unique development and activation pathways of NKT cells and focus on how these attributes augment or exacerbate autoimmune disorders and malignancy. We also examine the growing evidence that NKT cells are involved in liver inflammatory conditions that can contribute to the development of malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff J Subleski
- Laboratory of Experimental, Immunology, Cancer & Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Qun Jiang
- Laboratory of Experimental, Immunology, Cancer & Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Jonathan M Weiss
- Laboratory of Experimental, Immunology, Cancer & Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Robert H Wiltrout
- Laboratory of Experimental, Immunology, Cancer & Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
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43
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Dendritic cell-based vaccines positively impact natural killer and regulatory T cells in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Clin Dev Immunol 2011; 2011:249281. [PMID: 21969837 PMCID: PMC3182577 DOI: 10.1155/2011/249281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2011] [Revised: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy of cancer must promote antitumor effector cells for tumor eradication as well as counteract immunoregulatory mechanisms which inhibit effectors. Immunologic therapies of cancer are showing promise, including dendritic cell-(DC-) based strategies. DC are highly malleable antigen-presenting cells which can promote potent antitumor immunity as well as tolerance, depending on the environmental signals received. Previously, we tested a peptide-pulsed DC vaccine to promote Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP-) specific anti-tumor immunity in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and reported on the CD8+ T cell responses induced by this vaccine and the clinical trial results. Here, we show that the peptide-loaded DC enhanced NK cell activation and decreased regulatory T cells (Treg) frequencies in vaccinated HCC patients. We also extend these data by testing several forms of DC vaccines in vitro to determine the impact of antigen loading and maturation signals on both NK cells and Treg from healthy donors and HCC patients.
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44
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Tse BWC, Russell PJ, Lochner M, Förster I, Power CA. IL-18 inhibits growth of murine orthotopic prostate carcinomas via both adaptive and innate immune mechanisms. PLoS One 2011; 6:e24241. [PMID: 21935389 PMCID: PMC3174151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0024241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin(IL)-18 is a pleiotrophic cytokine with functions in immune modulation, angiogenesis and bone metabolism. In this study, the potential of IL-18 as an immunotherapy for prostate cancer (PCa) was examined using the murine model of prostate carcinoma, RM1 and a bone metastatic variant RM1(BM)/B4H7-luc. RM1 and RM1(BM)/B4H7-luc cells were stably transfected to express bioactive IL-18. These cells were implanted into syngeneic immunocompetent mice, with or without an IL-18-neutralising antibody (αIL-18, SK113AE4). IL-18 significantly inhibited the growth of both subcutaneous and orthotopic RM1 tumors and the IL-18 neutralizing antibody abrogated the tumor growth-inhibition. In vivo neutralization of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) completely eliminated the anti-tumor effects of IL-18 confirming an essential role of IFN-γ as a down-stream mediator of the anti-tumor activity of IL-18. Tumors from mice in which IL-18 and/or IFN-γ was neutralized contained significantly fewer CD4+ and CD8+ T cells than those with functional IL-18. The essential role of adaptive immunity was demonstrated as tumors grew more rapidly in RAG1−/− mice or in mice depleted of CD4+ and/or CD8+ cells than in normal mice. The tumors in RAG1−/− mice were also significantly smaller when IL-18 was present, indicating that innate immune mechanisms are involved. IL-18 also induced an increase in tumor infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils but not NK cells. In other experiments, direct injection of recombinant IL-18 into established tumors also inhibited tumor growth, which was associated with an increase in intratumoral macrophages, but not T cells. These results suggest that local IL-18 in the tumor environment can significantly potentiate anti-tumor immunity in the prostate and clearly demonstrate that this effect is mediated by innate and adaptive immune mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Wan-Chi Tse
- Lowy Cancer Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pamela Joan Russell
- Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthias Lochner
- Institute of Infection Immunology, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Irmgard Förster
- Institut fuer Umweltmedizinische Forschung, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Carl Andrew Power
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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45
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Coulouarn C, Factor VM, Conner EA, Thorgeirsson SS. Genomic modeling of tumor onset and progression in a mouse model of aggressive human liver cancer. Carcinogenesis 2011; 32:1434-40. [PMID: 21771728 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgr133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms driving cancer onset and progression should provide a basis for improving early diagnosis, biomarker discovery and treatment options. A key value of genetically engineered mice for modeling human cancer is the possibility to analyze the entire process of tumor development. Here, we applied functional genomics approach to study step-by-step development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the c-Myc/Tgfα transgenic mouse model of aggressive human liver cancer. We report that coexpression of c-Myc and Tgfα induces progressive and cumulative transcriptional alterations in the course of liver oncogenesis. Functional analysis of deregulated genes at the early stage of HCC disease supports a model of active hepatocyte proliferation on the background of chronic oxidative stress generated by a general metabolic disorder. In addition, early and persistent deregulation of numerous immune-related genes suggested that disruption of immune microenvironment may contribute to oncogenic process in this model of accelerated liver carcinogenesis. In particularly, by flow cytometry analysis, we found loss of the major histocompatibility complex class I expression in dysplastic hepatocytes followed by upregulation of numerous activating ligands for natural killer (NK) cells concomitant with a drastic decrease in hepatic NK cell frequency. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive characterization of sequential molecular changes during a stepwise progression of preneoplastic lesions toward HCC and highlights a critical role of metabolic disorders and innate immunity at the early stages of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Coulouarn
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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46
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Yang W, Li H, Mayhew E, Mellon J, Chen PW, Niederkorn JY. NKT cell exacerbation of liver metastases arising from melanomas transplanted into either the eyes or spleens of mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:3094-102. [PMID: 21330669 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-7067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the role of natural killer T (NKT) cells in the development of liver metastases in mice harboring intraocular melanomas. METHODS Cells derived from the cutaneous B16 melanoma cell line (B16LS9) were transplanted either into the vitreous body or under the spleen capsules of wild-type C57BL/6 mice and NKT-cell-deficient Jα18(-/-) and CD1d(-/-) mice. The development of liver metastases was evaluated by histopathology. The effect of NK cells on liver metastases was determined by selective depletion with anti-asialo-GM1 antiserum in vivo and NK-cell-mediated cytolysis of B16LS9 melanoma cells in vitro. The role of IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in the inhibition of liver NK resistance to liver metastases was determined by in vivo and in vitro neutralization with monoclonal antibodies. RESULTS Liver NKT cells, especially type I NKT cells, enhanced liver metastases arising from intraocular melanomas. NKT-cell-deficient mice developed significantly fewer liver metastases that were NK-cell dependent. Tumor-induced liver NKT cells, especially type I NKT cells, inhibited liver NK-cell cytotoxicity by an IL-10-dependent process. CONCLUSIONS NKT cells exert protective effects in many murine tumor models. However, the present results reveal that NKT cells exacerbate liver metastases arising from intraocular melanomas. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report that liver NKT cells, especially type I NKT cells, inhibit liver NK-cell antimetastatic activity by the production of IL-10. These results suggest that hepatic NKT cell activity can have an important effect in the immune surveillance of liver metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanhua Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-9057, USA
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Jiang Q, Weiss JM, Back T, Chan T, Ortaldo JR, Guichard S, Wiltrout RH. mTOR kinase inhibitor AZD8055 enhances the immunotherapeutic activity of an agonist CD40 antibody in cancer treatment. Cancer Res 2011; 71:4074-84. [PMID: 21540234 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-3968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
mTOR is a central mediator of cancer cell growth, but it also directs immune cell differentiation and function. On this basis, we had explored the hypothesis that mTOR inhibition can enhance cancer immunotherapy. Here, we report that a combination of αCD40 agonistic antibody and the ATP-competitive mTOR kinase inhibitory drug AZD8055 elicited synergistic antitumor responses in a model of metastatic renal cell carcinoma. In contrast to the well-established mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, AZD8055 increased the infiltration, activation, and proliferation of CD8(+) T cells and natural killer cells in liver metastatic foci when combined with the CD40 agonist. AZD8055/αCD40-treated mice also display an increased incidence of matured macrophages and dendritic cells compared with that achieved in mice by αCD40 or AZD8055 treatment alone. We found that the combination treatment also increased macrophage production of TNFα, which played an indispensable role in activation of the observed antitumor immune response. Levels of Th1 cytokines, including interleukin 12, IFN-γ, TNFα, and the Th1-associated chemokines RANTES, MIG, and IP-10 were each elevated significantly in the livers of mice treated with the combinatorial therapy versus individual treatments. Notably, the AZD8055/αCD40-induced antitumor response was abolished in IFN-γ(-/-) and CD40(-/-) mice, establishing the reliance of the combination therapy on host IFN-γ and CD40 expression. Our findings offer a preclinical proof of concept that, unlike rapamycin, the ATP-competitive mTOR kinase inhibitor AZD8055 can contribute with αCD40 treatment to trigger a restructuring of the tumor immune microenvironment to trigger regressions of an established metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Jiang
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI-Frederick, Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201, USA
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48
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Subleski JJ, Hall VL, Wolfe TB, Scarzello AJ, Weiss JM, Chan T, Hodge DL, Back TC, Ortaldo JR, Wiltrout RH. TCR-dependent and -independent activation underlie liver-specific regulation of NKT cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2011; 186:838-47. [PMID: 21148802 PMCID: PMC3725575 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1001735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The fate of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells following activation remains controversial and unclear. We systemically examined how iNKT cells are regulated following TCR-dependent and -independent activation with α-galactosylceramide (αGC) or IL-18 plus IL-12, respectively. Our studies reveal activation by αGC or IL-18 plus IL-12 induced transient depletion of iNKT cells exclusively in the liver that was independent of caspase 3-mediated apoptosis. The loss of iNKT cells was followed by repopulation and expansion of phenotypically distinct cells via different mechanisms. Liver iNKT cell expansion following αGC, but not IL-18 plus IL-12, treatment required an intact spleen and IFN-γ. Additionally, IL-18 plus IL-12 induced a more prolonged expansion of liver iNKT cells compared with αGC. iNKT cells that repopulate the liver following αGC had higher levels of suppressive receptors PD-1 and Lag3, whereas those that repopulate the liver following IL-18 plus IL-12 had increased levels of TCR and ICOS. In contrast to acute treatment that caused a transient loss of iNKT cells, chronic αGC or IL-18 plus IL-12 treatment caused long-term systemic loss requiring an intact thymus for repopulation of the liver. This report reveals a previously undefined role for the liver in the depletion of activated iNKT cells. Additionally, TCR-dependent and -independent activation differentially regulate iNKT cell distribution and phenotype. These results provide new insights for understanding how iNKT cells are systemically regulated following activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff J. Subleski
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Veronica L. Hall
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Thomas B. Wolfe
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Anthony J. Scarzello
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Jonathan M. Weiss
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Tim Chan
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Deborah L. Hodge
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Timothy C. Back
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - John R. Ortaldo
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
| | - Robert H. Wiltrout
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick MD, USA 21702
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Grisanti LA, Perez DM, Porter JE. Modulation of immune cell function by α(1)-adrenergic receptor activation. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2011; 67:113-38. [PMID: 21771488 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-384921-2.00006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system regulates human immune system functions through epinephrine (Epi) and norepinephrine (NE) activation of adrenergic receptors (AR) expressed on immunocompetent cell populations. The anti-inflammatory effects that are most often attributed to increased sympathetic activity have been shown to occur through β2- and α2-AR stimulation. However, dichotomous AR effects on immune system function are becoming increasingly apparent. Reports of α1-AR expression on immune cell populations have been conflicting due to a lack of specific antibodies or subtype-selective receptor ligands. This has made α1-AR identification difficult and further characterization of α1-AR subtype expression limited. Nevertheless, there is some evidence suggesting an induction of α1-AR expression on immunocompetent cells under certain physiological conditions and disease states. Also, the function of α1-AR activation to modulate immune responses is just beginning to emerge in the literature. Changes in the secretion of inflammatory mediators as well as increased cell migration and differentiation have been described following α1-AR stimulation on immunocompetent cells. These observations demonstrate the significance of α1-AR activity in immune cell biology and emphasize the importance for understanding α1-AR effects on the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Grisanti
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
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50
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Thymic and peripheral microenvironments differentially mediate development and maturation of iNKT cells by IL-15 transpresentation. Blood 2010; 116:2494-503. [PMID: 20581314 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-03-277103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are an innate type of T cells, which respond rapidly on activation. iNKT cells acquire these innate-like abilities during development; however, the signals driving development and functional maturation remain only partially understood. Because interleukin-15 (IL-15) is crucial for iNKT development and is delivered by transpresentation, we set out to identify the cell types providing IL-15 to developing iNKT cells and determine their role at the various states of development and maturation. We report here that transpresentation of IL-15 by parenchymal cells was crucial for generating normal number of iNKTs in the thymus, whereas both hematopoietic and parenchymal cells regulated iNKT cell numbers in the periphery, particularly in the liver. Specifically, dendritic cells contributed to peripheral iNKT cell numbers by up-regulating Bcl-2 expression and promoting extrathymic iNKT cell ex-pansion and their homeostatic proliferation. Whether IL-15 affects functional maturation of iNKT cells was also examined. In IL-15Rα(-/-) mice, CD44(High)NK1.1(+) iNKT cells displayed decreased T-bet expression and in response to α-galactosylceramide, had deficient interferon-γ expression. Such defects could be reversed by exogenous IL-15 signals. Overall, these studies identify stage-specific functions of IL-15, which are determined by the tissue microenvironment and elucidate the importance of IL-15 in functional maturation.
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