1
|
Aparicio B, Theunissen P, Hervas-Stubbs S, Fortes P, Sarobe P. Relevance of mutation-derived neoantigens and non-classical antigens for anticancer therapies. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2303799. [PMID: 38346926 PMCID: PMC10863374 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2303799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Efficacy of cancer immunotherapies relies on correct recognition of tumor antigens by lymphocytes, eliciting thus functional responses capable of eliminating tumor cells. Therefore, important efforts have been carried out in antigen identification, with the aim of understanding mechanisms of response to immunotherapy and to design safer and more efficient strategies. In addition to classical tumor-associated antigens identified during the last decades, implementation of next-generation sequencing methodologies is enabling the identification of neoantigens (neoAgs) arising from mutations, leading to the development of new neoAg-directed therapies. Moreover, there are numerous non-classical tumor antigens originated from other sources and identified by new methodologies. Here, we review the relevance of neoAgs in different immunotherapies and the results obtained by applying neoAg-based strategies. In addition, the different types of non-classical tumor antigens and the best approaches for their identification are described. This will help to increase the spectrum of targetable molecules useful in cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Belen Aparicio
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Cancer Center Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Patrick Theunissen
- Cancer Center Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Pamplona, Spain
- DNA and RNA Medicine Division, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervas-Stubbs
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Cancer Center Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Puri Fortes
- Cancer Center Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Pamplona, Spain
- DNA and RNA Medicine Division, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Spanish Network for Advanced Therapies (TERAV ISCIII), Spain
| | - Pablo Sarobe
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Cancer Center Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Pamplona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Song Y, Loomans-Kropp H, Baugher RN, Somerville B, Baxter SS, Kerr TD, Plona TM, Mellott SD, Young TB, Lawhorn HE, Wei L, Hu Q, Liu S, Hutson A, Pinto L, Potter JD, Sei S, Gelincik O, Lipkin SM, Gebert J, Kloor M, Shoemaker RH. Frameshift mutations in peripheral blood as a biomarker for surveillance of Lynch syndrome. J Natl Cancer Inst 2024; 116:957-965. [PMID: 38466935 PMCID: PMC11160491 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djae060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lynch syndrome is a hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome caused by germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair genes, which lead to high microsatellite instability and frameshift mutations at coding mononucleotide repeats in the genome. Recurrent frameshift mutations in these regions are thought to play a central role in the increased risk of various cancers, but no biomarkers are currently available for the surveillance of high microsatellite instability-associated cancers. METHODS A frameshift mutation-based biomarker panel was developed and validated by targeted next-generation sequencing of supernatant DNA from cultured high microsatellite instability colorectal cancer cells. This panel supported selection of 122 frameshift mutation targets as potential biomarkers. This biomarker panel was then tested using matched tumor, adjacent normal tissue, and buffy coat samples (53 samples) and blood-derived cell-free DNA (cfDNA) (38 samples) obtained from 45 high microsatellite instability and mismatch repair-deficient patients. We also sequenced cfDNA from 84 healthy participants to assess background noise. RESULTS Recurrent frameshift mutations at coding mononucleotide repeats were detectable not only in tumors but also in cfDNA from high microsatellite instability and mismatch repair-deficient patients, including a Lynch syndrome carrier, with a varying range of target detection (up to 85.2%), whereas they were virtually undetectable in healthy participants. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed high sensitivity and specificity (area under the curve = 0.94) of the investigated panel. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that frameshift mutations can be detected in cfDNA from high microsatellite instability and mismatch repair-deficient patients and asymptomatic carriers. The 122-target frameshift mutation panel described here has promise as a tool for improved surveillance of high microsatellite instability and mismatch repair-deficient patients, with the potential to reduce the frequency of invasive screening methods for this high-cancer-risk cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Song
- Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Holli Loomans-Kropp
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Now at Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ryan N Baugher
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Brandon Somerville
- Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Shaneen S Baxter
- Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Travis D Kerr
- Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Teri M Plona
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Stephanie D Mellott
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Todd B Young
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Heidi E Lawhorn
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Qiang Hu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Song Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Alan Hutson
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ligia Pinto
- Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - John D Potter
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shizuko Sei
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ozkan Gelincik
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steven M Lipkin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Johannes Gebert
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert H Shoemaker
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Helderman NC, van Leerdam ME, Kloor M, Ahadova A, Nielsen M. Emerge of colorectal cancer in Lynch syndrome despite colonoscopy surveillance: A challenge of hide and seek. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 197:104331. [PMID: 38521284 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104331] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Even with colonoscopy surveillance, Lynch syndromes (LS) carriers still develop colorectal cancer (CRC). The cumulative incidence of CRCs under colonoscopy surveillance varies depending on the affected mismatch repair (MMR) gene. However, the precise mechanisms driving these epidemiological patterns remain incompletely understood. In recent years, several potential mechanisms explaining the occurrence of CRCs during colonoscopy surveillance have been proposed in individuals with and without LS. These encompass biological factors like concealed/accelerated carcinogenesis through a bypassed adenoma stage and accelerated progression from adenomas. Alongside these, various colonoscopy-related factors may contribute to formation of CRCs under colonoscopy surveillance, like missed yet detectable (pre)cancerous lesions, detected yet incompletely removed (pre)cancerous lesions, and colonoscopy-induced carcinogenesis due to tumor cell reimplantation. In this comprehensive literature update, we reviewed these potential factors and evaluated their relevance to each MMR group in an attempt to raise further awareness and stimulate research regarding this conflicting phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noah C Helderman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Monique E van Leerdam
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aysel Ahadova
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maartje Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bolivar AM, Duzagac F, Deng N, Reyes-Uribe L, Chang K, Wu W, Bowen CM, Taggart MW, Thirumurthi S, Lynch PM, You YN, Rodriguez-Pascual J, Lipkin SM, Kopetz S, Scheet P, Lizee GA, Reuben A, Sinha KM, Vilar E. Genomic Landscape of Lynch Syndrome Colorectal Neoplasia Identifies Shared Mutated Neoantigens for Immunoprevention. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:787-801.e11. [PMID: 38244726 PMCID: PMC11034773 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Lynch syndrome (LS) carriers develop mismatch repair-deficient neoplasia with high neoantigen (neoAg) rates. No detailed information on targetable neoAgs from LS precancers exists, which is crucial for vaccine development and immune-interception strategies. We report a focused somatic mutation and frameshift-neoAg landscape of microsatellite loci from colorectal polyps without malignant potential (PWOMP), precancers, and early-stage cancers in LS carriers. METHODS We generated paired whole-exome and transcriptomic sequencing data from 8 colorectal PWOMP, 41 precancers, 8 advanced precancers, and 12 early-stage cancers of 43 LS carriers. A computational pipeline was developed to predict, rank, and prioritize the top 100 detected mutated neoAgs that were validated in vitro using ELISpot and tetramer assays. RESULTS Mutation calling revealed >10 mut/Mb in 83% of cancers, 63% of advanced precancers, and 20% of precancers. Cancers displayed an average of 616 MHC-I neoAgs/sample, 294 in advanced precancers, and 107 in precancers. No neoAgs were detected in PWOMP. A total of 65% of our top 100 predicted neoAgs were immunogenic in vitro, and were present in 92% of cancers, 50% of advanced precancers, and 29% of precancers. We observed increased levels of naïve CD8+ and memory CD4+ T cells in mismatch repair-deficient cancers and precancers via transcriptomics analysis. CONCLUSIONS Shared frameshift-neoAgs are generated within unstable microsatellite loci at initial stages of LS carcinogenesis and can induce T-cell responses, generating opportunities for vaccine development, targeting LS precancers and early-stage cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Bolivar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Fahriye Duzagac
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Nan Deng
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Laura Reyes-Uribe
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Kyle Chang
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Wenhui Wu
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Charles M Bowen
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Melissa W Taggart
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Selvi Thirumurthi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Patrick M Lynch
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Y Nancy You
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Colorectal Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Steven M Lipkin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - Scott Kopetz
- Department of GI Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Paul Scheet
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gregory A Lizee
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Alexandre Reuben
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Krishna M Sinha
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of GI Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bowen CM, Sinha KM, Vilar E. Current Trends in Vaccine Development for Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2024; 37:146-156. [PMID: 38606044 PMCID: PMC11006444 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The coming of age for cancer treatment has experienced exponential growth in the last decade with the addition of immunotherapy as the fourth pillar to the fundamentals of cancer treatment-chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation-taking oncology to an astounding new frontier. In this time, rapid developments in computational biology coupled with immunology have led to the exploration of priming the host immune system through vaccination to prevent and treat certain subsets of cancer such as melanoma and hereditary colorectal cancer. By targeting the immune system through tumor-specific antigens-namely, neoantigens (neoAgs)-the future of cancer prevention may lie within arm's reach by employing neoAg vaccines as an immune-preventive modality for hereditary cancer syndromes like Lynch syndrome. In this review, we discuss the history, current trends, utilization, and future direction of neoAg-based vaccines in the setting of hereditary colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles M. Bowen
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Krishna M. Sinha
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sei S, Srivastava S, Kelly HR, Miller MS, Leitner WW, Shoemaker RH, Szabo E, Castle PE. NCI Resources for Cancer Immunoprevention Research. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:387-392. [PMID: 38562082 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Cancer prevention and early detection, the first two of the eight primary goals of the National Cancer Plan released in April 2023, are at the forefront of the nation's strategic efforts to reduce cancer incidence and mortality. The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) of the NCI is the federal government's principal component devoted to promoting and supporting innovative cancer prevention research. Recent advances in tumor immunology, cancer immunotherapy, and vaccinology strongly suggest that the host immune system can be effectively harnessed to elicit protective immunity against the development of cancer, that is, cancer immunoprevention. Cancer immunoprevention may be most effective if the intervention is given before or early in the carcinogenic process while the immune system remains relatively uncompromised. DCP has increased the emphasis on immunoprevention research in recent years and continues to expand program resources and interagency collaborations designed to facilitate research in the immunoprevention field. These resources support a wide array of basic, translational, and clinical research activities, including discovery, development, and validation of biomarkers for cancer risk assessment and early detection (Early Detection Research Network), elucidation of biological and pathophysiological mechanistic determinants of precancer growth and its control (Translational and Basic Science Research in Early Lesions), spatiotemporal multiomics characterization of precancerous lesions (Human Tumor Atlas Network/Pre-Cancer Atlas), discovery of immunoprevention pathways and immune targets (Cancer Immunoprevention Network), and preclinical and clinical development of novel agents for immunoprevention and interception (Cancer Prevention-Interception Targeted Agent Discovery Program, PREVENT Cancer Preclinical Drug Development Program, and Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Network).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shizuko Sei
- Division of Cancer Prevention, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Halonna R Kelly
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Wolfgang W Leitner
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Eva Szabo
- Division of Cancer Prevention, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Philip E Castle
- Division of Cancer Prevention, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Minegishi Y, Haga Y, Ueda K. Emerging potential of immunopeptidomics by mass spectrometry in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:1048-1059. [PMID: 38382459 PMCID: PMC11007014 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
With significant advances in analytical technologies, research in the field of cancer immunotherapy, such as adoptive T cell therapy, cancer vaccine, and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), is currently gaining tremendous momentum. Since the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is recognized only by a minority of patients, more potent tumor-specific antigens (TSAs, also known as neoantigens) and predictive markers for treatment response are of great interest. In cancer immunity, immunopeptides, presented by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I, play a role as initiating mediators of immunogenicity. The latest advancement in the interdisciplinary multiomics approach has rapidly enlightened us about the identity of the "dark matter" of cancer and the associated immunopeptides. In this field, mass spectrometry (MS) is a viable option to select because of the naturally processed and actually presented TSA candidates in order to grasp the whole picture of the immunopeptidome. In the past few years the search space has been enlarged by the multiomics approach, the sensitivity of mass spectrometers has been improved, and deep/machine-learning-supported peptide search algorithms have taken immunopeptidomics to the next level. In this review, along with the introduction of key technical advancements in immunopeptidomics, the potential and further directions of immunopeptidomics will be reviewed from the perspective of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuriko Minegishi
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshimi Haga
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Koji Ueda
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hato L, Vizcay A, Eguren I, Pérez-Gracia JL, Rodríguez J, Gállego Pérez-Larraya J, Sarobe P, Inogés S, Díaz de Cerio AL, Santisteban M. Dendritic Cells in Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:981. [PMID: 38473341 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy modulates the immune system, overcomes immune escape and stimulates immune defenses against tumors. Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional promoters of immune responses against tumor antigens with the outstanding ability to coordinate the innate and adaptive immune systems. Evidence suggests that there is a decrease in both the number and function of DCs in cancer patients. Therefore, they represent a strong scaffold for therapeutic interventions. DC vaccination (DCV) is safe, and the antitumoral responses induced are well established in solid tumors. Although the addition of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) to chemotherapy has provided new options in the treatment of cancer, they have shown no clinical benefit in immune desert tumors or in those tumors with dysfunctional or exhausted T-cells. In this way, DC-based therapy has demonstrated the ability to modify the tumor microenvironment for immune enriched tumors and to potentiate systemic host immune responses as an active approach to treating cancer patients. Application of DCV in cancer seeks to obtain long-term antitumor responses through an improved T-cell priming by enhancing previous or generating de novo immune responses. To date, DCV has induced immune responses in the peripheral blood of patients without a significant clinical impact on outcome. Thus, improvements in vaccines formulations, selection of patients based on biomarkers and combinations with other antitumoral therapies are needed to enhance patient survival. In this work, we review the role of DCV in different solid tumors with their strengths and weaknesses, and we finally mention new trends to improve the efficacy of this immune strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hato
- Immunology, Riberalab, 03203 Alicante, Spain
| | - Angel Vizcay
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iñaki Eguren
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Javier Rodríguez
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Pablo Sarobe
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBEREHD, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Susana Inogés
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Cell Therapy Unit, Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ascensión López Díaz de Cerio
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Cell Therapy Unit, Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Santisteban
- Medical Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Adams AC, Macy AM, Borden ES, Herrmann LM, Brambley CA, Ma T, Li X, Hughes A, Roe DJ, Mangold AR, Buetow KH, Wilson MA, Baker BM, Hastings KT. Distinct sets of molecular characteristics define tumor-rejecting neoantigens. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.579546. [PMID: 38405868 PMCID: PMC10888839 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.579546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Challenges in identifying tumor-rejecting neoantigens limit the efficacy of neoantigen vaccines to treat cancers, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). A minority of human cSCC tumors shared neoantigens, supporting the need for personalized vaccines. Using a UV-induced mouse cSCC model which recapitulated the mutational signature and driver mutations found in human disease, we found that CD8 T cells constrain cSCC. Two MHC class I neoantigens were identified that constrained cSCC growth. Compared to the wild-type peptides, one tumor-rejecting neoantigen exhibited improved MHC binding and the other had increased solvent accessibility of the mutated residue. Across known neoantigens that do not impact MHC binding, structural modeling of the peptide/MHC complexes indicated that increased solvent accessibility, which will facilitate TCR recognition of the neoantigen, distinguished tumor-rejecting from non-immunogenic neoantigens. This work reveals characteristics of tumor-rejecting neoantigens that may be of considerable importance in identifying optimal vaccine candidates in cSCC and other cancers.
Collapse
|
10
|
Seclì L, Leoni G, Ruzza V, Siani L, Cotugno G, Scarselli E, D’Alise AM. Personalized Cancer Vaccines Go Viral: Viral Vectors in the Era of Personalized Immunotherapy of Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16591. [PMID: 38068911 PMCID: PMC10706435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316591] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of personalized cancer vaccines is to elicit potent and tumor-specific immune responses against neoantigens specific to each patient and to establish durable immunity, while minimizing the adverse events. Over recent years, there has been a renewed interest in personalized cancer vaccines, primarily due to the advancement of innovative technologies for the identification of neoantigens and novel vaccine delivery platforms. Here, we review the emerging field of personalized cancer vaccination, with a focus on the use of viral vectors as a vaccine platform. The recent advancements in viral vector technology have led to the development of efficient production processes, positioning personalized viral vaccines as one of the preferred technologies. Many clinical trials have shown the feasibility, safety, immunogenicity and, more recently, preliminary evidence of the anti-tumor activity of personalized vaccination, fostering active research in the field, including further clinical trials for different tumor types and in different clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Morena D’Alise
- Nouscom, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.); (V.R.); (L.S.); (G.C.); (E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Meng W, Schreiber RD, Lichti CF. Recent advances in immunopeptidomic-based tumor neoantigen discovery. Adv Immunol 2023; 160:1-36. [PMID: 38042584 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2023.10.001] [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] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
The role of aberrantly expressed proteins in tumors in driving immune-mediated control of cancer has been well documented for more than five decades. Today, we know that both aberrantly expressed normal proteins as well as mutant proteins (neoantigens) can function as tumor antigens in both humans and mice. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) technologies have made significant advances since the early 2010s, enabling detection of rare but clinically relevant neoantigens recognized by T cells. MS profiling of tumor-specific immunopeptidomes remains the most direct method to identify mutant peptides bound to cellular MHC. However, the need for use of large numbers of cells or significant amounts of tumor tissue to achieve neoantigen detection has historically limited the application of MS. Newer, more sensitive MS technologies have recently demonstrated the capacities to detect neoantigens from fewer cells. Here, we highlight recent advancements in immunopeptidomics-based characterization of tumor-specific neoantigens. Various tumor antigen categories and neoantigen identification approaches are also discussed. Furthermore, we summarize recent reports that achieved successful tumor neoantigen detection by MS using a variety of starting materials, MS acquisition modes, and novel ion mobility devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Meng
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States; The Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Robert D Schreiber
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States; The Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States.
| | - Cheryl F Lichti
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States; The Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bhamidipati D, Subbiah V. Tumor-agnostic drug development in dMMR/MSI-H solid tumors. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:828-839. [PMID: 37517955 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) represents a distinct phenotype among solid tumors characterized by frequent frameshift mutations resulting in the generation of neoantigens that are highly immunogenic. Seminal studies identified that dMMR/MSI-H tumors are exquisitely sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitors, which has dramatically improved outcomes for patients harboring dMMR/MSI-H tumors. Nevertheless, many patients develop resistance to single-agent immune checkpoint blockade, prompting the need for improved therapeutic options for this patient population. In this review, we highlight key studies examining the efficacy of PD1 inhibitors in the metastatic and neoadjuvant setting for patients with dMMR/MSI-H tumors, describe resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint blockade, and discuss novel treatment approaches that are currently under investigation for dMMR/MSI-H tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Bhamidipati
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vivek Subbiah
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Nashville, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bolivar AM, Duzagac F, Sinha KM, Vilar E. Advances in vaccine development for cancer prevention and treatment in Lynch Syndrome. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 93:101204. [PMID: 37478804 PMCID: PMC10528439 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Lynch Syndrome (LS) is one of the most common hereditary cancer syndromes, and is caused by mutations in one of the four DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes, namely MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2. Tumors developed by LS carriers display high levels of microsatellite instability, which leads to the accumulation of large numbers of mutations, among which frameshift insertion/deletions (indels) within microsatellite (MS) loci are the most common. As a result, MMR-deficient (MMRd) cells generate increased rates of tumor-specific neoantigens (neoAgs) that can be recognized by the immune system to activate cancer cell killing. In this context, LS is an ideal disease to leverage immune-interception strategies. Therefore, the identification of these neoAgs is an ongoing effort for the development of LS cancer preventive vaccines. In this review, we summarize the computational methods used for in silico neoAg prediction, including their challenges, and the experimental techniques used for in vitro validation of their immunogenicity. In addition, we outline results from past and on-going vaccine clinical trials and highlight avenues for improvement and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Bolivar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fahriye Duzagac
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krishna M Sinha
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eduardo Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Song Y, Kerr TD, Sanders C, Dai L, Baxter SS, Somerville B, Baugher RN, Mellott SD, Young TB, Lawhorn HE, Plona TM, Xu B, Wei L, Hu Q, Liu S, Hutson A, Karim B, Burkett S, Difilippantonio S, Pinto L, Gebert J, Kloor M, Lipkin SM, Sei S, Shoemaker RH. Organoids and metastatic orthotopic mouse model for mismatch repair-deficient colorectal cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1223915. [PMID: 37746286 PMCID: PMC10516605 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1223915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Genome integrity is essential for the survival of an organism. DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes (e.g., MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) play a critical role in the DNA damage response pathway for genome integrity maintenance. Germline mutations of MMR genes can lead to Lynch syndrome or constitutional mismatch repair deficiency syndrome, resulting in an increased lifetime risk of developing cancer characterized by high microsatellite instability (MSI-H) and high mutation burden. Although immunotherapy has been approved for MMR-deficient (MMRd) cancer patients, the overall response rate needs to be improved and other management options are needed. Methods To better understand the biology of MMRd cancers, elucidate the resistance mechanisms to immune modulation, and develop vaccines and therapeutic testing platforms for this high-risk population, we generated organoids and an orthotopic mouse model from intestine tumors developed in a Msh2-deficient mouse model, and followed with a detailed characterization. Results The organoids were shown to be of epithelial origin with stem cell features, to have a high frameshift mutation frequency with MSI-H and chromosome instability, and intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity. An orthotopic model using intra-cecal implantation of tumor fragments derived from organoids showed progressive tumor growth, resulting in the development of adenocarcinomas mixed with mucinous features and distant metastasis in liver and lymph node. Conclusions The established organoids with characteristics of MSI-H cancers can be used to study MMRd cancer biology. The orthotopic model, with its distant metastasis and expressing frameshift peptides, is suitable for evaluating the efficacy of neoantigen-based vaccines or anticancer drugs in combination with other therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Song
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Travis D. Kerr
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Chelsea Sanders
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Lisheng Dai
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Shaneen S. Baxter
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Brandon Somerville
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ryan N. Baugher
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Stephanie D. Mellott
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Todd B. Young
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Heidi E. Lawhorn
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Teri M. Plona
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Bingfang Xu
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Genomics Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Qiang Hu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Song Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Alan Hutson
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Baktiar Karim
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Sandra Burkett
- Molecular Cytogenetics Core Facility, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Simone Difilippantonio
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ligia Pinto
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vaccine, Immunity, and Cancer Directorate, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Johannes Gebert
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steven M. Lipkin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Shizuko Sei
- Chemopreventive Agent Development Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Robert H. Shoemaker
- Chemopreventive Agent Development Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Haldar SD, Vilar E, Maitra A, Zaidi N. Worth a Pound of Cure? Emerging Strategies and Challenges in Cancer Immunoprevention. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2023; 16:483-495. [PMID: 37001882 PMCID: PMC10548442 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-22-0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunoprevention applies immunologic approaches such as vaccines to prevent, rather than to treat or cure, cancer. Despite limited success in the treatment of advanced disease, the development of cancer vaccines to intercept premalignant states is a promising area of current research. These efforts are supported by the rationale that vaccination in the premalignant setting is less susceptible to mechanisms of immune evasion compared with established cancer. Prophylactic vaccines have already been developed for a minority of cancers mediated by oncogenic viruses (e.g., hepatitis B and human papillomavirus). Extending the use of preventive vaccines to non-virally driven malignancies remains an unmet need to address the rising global burden of cancer. This review provides a broad overview of clinical trials in cancer immunoprevention with an emphasis on emerging vaccine targets and delivery platforms, translational challenges, and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurav D. Haldar
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Eduardo Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Sheikh Ahmed Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Neeha Zaidi
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tosti E, Srivastava N, Edelmann W. Vaccination and Microbiota Manipulation Approaches for Colon Cancer Prevention in Rodent Models. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2023; 16:429-438. [PMID: 37012205 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-23-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer represents the third most common cancer type worldwide and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States and Western countries. Rodent models have been invaluable to study the etiology of colorectal cancer and to test novel chemoprevention avenues. In the past, the laboratory mouse has become one of the best preclinical models for these studies due to the availability of genetic information for commonly used mouse strains with well-established and precise gene targeting and transgenic techniques. Well-established chemical mutagenesis technologies are also being used to develop mouse and rat models of colorectal cancer for prevention and treatment studies. In addition, xenotransplantation of cancer cell lines and patient-derived xenografts has been useful for preclinical prevention studies and drug development. This review focuses on the recent use of rodent models to evaluate the utility of novel strategies in the prevention of colon cancers including immune prevention approaches and the manipulation of the intestinal microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tosti
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Nityanand Srivastava
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Winfried Edelmann
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Boselli D, Panigada M, Di Terlizzi S, Romanò M, Canonico E, Villa C, Minici C, van Anken E, Soprana E, Siccardi AG. Time- and cost-effective production of untagged recombinant MVA by flow virometry and direct virus sorting. J Transl Med 2023; 21:495. [PMID: 37482614 PMCID: PMC10364397 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04353-7] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant MVAs (rMVAs) are widely used both in basic and clinical research. Our previously developed Red-to-Green Gene Swapping Method (RGGSM), a cytometry-based Cell-Sorting protocol, revolves around the transient expression of a green fluorescent cytoplasmic marker, to subsequently obtain purified untagged rMVA upon loss of that marker by site-specific recombination. The standard RGSSM is quite costly in terms of bench work, reagents, and Sorting Facility fees. Although faster than other methods to obtain recombinant MVAs, the standard RGSSM still is time-consuming, taking at least 25 days to yield the final product. METHODS The direct sorting of fluorescent virions is made amenable by the marker HAG, a flu hemagglutinin/EGFP fusion protein, integrated into the external envelope of extracellular enveloped virions (EEVs). Fluorescent EEVs-containing supernatants of infected cultures are used instead of purified virus. Direct Virus-Sorting was performed on BD FACSAria Fusion cell sorter equipped with 4 lasers and a 100-mm nozzle, with 20 psi pressure and a minimal flow rate, validated using Megamix beads. RESULTS Upon infection of cells with recombinant EEVs, at the first sorting step virions that contain HAG are harvested and cloned, while the second sorting step yields EEVs that have lost HAG, allowing to clone untagged rMVA. Because only virion-containing supernatants are used, no virus purification steps and fewer sortings are necessary. Therefore, the final untagged rMVA product can be obtained in a mere 8 days. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, we report that the original RGSSM has been markedly improved in terms of time- and cost efficiency by substituting Cell-Sorting with direct Virus-Sorting from the supernatants of infected cells. The improved virometry-based RGGSM may find wide applicability, considering that rMVAs hold great promise to serve as personalized vaccines for therapeutic intervention against cancer and various types of infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maddalena Panigada
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Monica Romanò
- FRACTAL - San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Villa
- FRACTAL - San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Minici
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Soprana
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio G Siccardi
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Atay C, Medina-Echeverz J, Hochrein H, Suter M, Hinterberger M. Armored modified vaccinia Ankara in cancer immunotherapy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 379:87-142. [PMID: 37541728 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy relies on unleashing the patient´s immune system against tumor cells. Cancer vaccines aim to stimulate both the innate and adaptive arms of immunity to achieve durable clinical responses. Some roadblocks for a successful cancer vaccine in the clinic include the tumor antigen of choice, the adjuvants employed to strengthen antitumor-specific immune responses, and the risks associated with enhancing immune-related adverse effects in patients. Modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) belongs to the family of poxviruses and is a versatile vaccine platform that combines several attributes crucial for cancer therapy. First, MVA is an excellent inducer of innate immune responses leading to type I interferon secretion and induction of T helper cell type 1 (Th1) immune responses. Second, it elicits robust and durable humoral and cellular immunity against vector-encoded heterologous antigens. Third, MVA has enormous genomic flexibility, which allows for the expression of multiple antigenic and costimulatory entities. And fourth, its replication deficit in human cells ensures a excellent safety profile. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of how MVA induces innate and adaptive immune responses. Furthermore, we will give an overview of the tumor-associated antigens and immunomodulatory molecules that have been used to armor MVA and describe their clinical use. Finally, the route of MVA immunization and its impact on therapeutic efficacy depending on the immunomodulatory molecules expressed will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cigdem Atay
- Bavarian Nordic GmbH, Fraunhoferstr.13, Planegg, Germany
| | | | | | - Mark Suter
- Prof. em. University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lepore Signorile M, Grossi V, Fasano C, Simone C. Colorectal Cancer Chemoprevention: A Dream Coming True? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087597. [PMID: 37108756 PMCID: PMC10140862 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the deadliest forms of cancer worldwide. CRC development occurs mainly through the adenoma-carcinoma sequence, which can last decades, giving the opportunity for primary prevention and early detection. CRC prevention involves different approaches, ranging from fecal occult blood testing and colonoscopy screening to chemoprevention. In this review, we discuss the main findings gathered in the field of CRC chemoprevention, focusing on different target populations and on various precancerous lesions that can be used as efficacy evaluation endpoints for chemoprevention. The ideal chemopreventive agent should be well tolerated and easy to administer, with low side effects. Moreover, it should be readily available at a low cost. These properties are crucial because these compounds are meant to be used for a long time in populations with different CRC risk profiles. Several agents have been investigated so far, some of which are currently used in clinical practice. However, further investigation is needed to devise a comprehensive and effective chemoprevention strategy for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Lepore Signorile
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy
| | - Valentina Grossi
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy
| | - Candida Fasano
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy
| | - Cristiano Simone
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wang S, Liang B, Wang W, Li L, Feng N, Zhao Y, Wang T, Yan F, Yang S, Xia X. Viral vectored vaccines: design, development, preventive and therapeutic applications in human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:149. [PMID: 37029123 PMCID: PMC10081433 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01408-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human diseases, particularly infectious diseases and cancers, pose unprecedented challenges to public health security and the global economy. The development and distribution of novel prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines are the prioritized countermeasures of human disease. Among all vaccine platforms, viral vector vaccines offer distinguished advantages and represent prominent choices for pathogens that have hampered control efforts based on conventional vaccine approaches. Currently, viral vector vaccines remain one of the best strategies for induction of robust humoral and cellular immunity against human diseases. Numerous viruses of different families and origins, including vesicular stomatitis virus, rabies virus, parainfluenza virus, measles virus, Newcastle disease virus, influenza virus, adenovirus and poxvirus, are deemed to be prominent viral vectors that differ in structural characteristics, design strategy, antigen presentation capability, immunogenicity and protective efficacy. This review summarized the overall profile of the design strategies, progress in advance and steps taken to address barriers to the deployment of these viral vector vaccines, simultaneously highlighting their potential for mucosal delivery, therapeutic application in cancer as well as other key aspects concerning the rational application of these viral vector vaccines. Appropriate and accurate technological advances in viral vector vaccines would consolidate their position as a leading approach to accelerate breakthroughs in novel vaccines and facilitate a rapid response to public health emergencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Bo Liang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Weiqi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ling Li
- China National Research Center for Exotic Animal Diseases, China Animal Health and Epidemiology Center, Qingdao, China
| | - Na Feng
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Yongkun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Tiecheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Feihu Yan
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
| | - Songtao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
| | - Xianzhu Xia
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Seclì L, Infante L, Nocchi L, De Lucia M, Cotugno G, Leoni G, Micarelli E, Garzia I, Avalle L, Sdruscia G, Troise F, Allocca S, Romano G, Scarselli E, D'Alise AM. Vector Aided Microenvironment programming (VAMP): reprogramming the TME with MVA virus expressing IL-12 for effective antitumor activity. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2023-006718. [PMID: 37117006 PMCID: PMC10151998 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a critical hurdle in cancer immunotherapy, given its ability to suppress antitumor immunity. Several efforts are made to overcome this hostile TME with the development of new therapeutic strategies modifying TME to boost antitumor immunity. Among these, cytokine-based approaches have been pursued for their known immunomodulatory effects on different cell populations within the TME. IL-12 is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that demonstrates striking immune activation and tumor control but causes severe adverse effects when systemically administered. Thus, local administration is considered a potential strategy to achieve high cytokine concentrations at the tumor site while sparing systemic adverse effects. METHODS Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector is a potent inducer of pro-inflammatory response. Here, we cloned IL-12 into the genome of MVA for intratumoral immunotherapy, combining the immunomodulatory properties of both the vector and the cargo. The antitumor activity of MVA-IL-12 and its effect on TME reprogramming were investigated in preclinical tumor models. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis was performed to assess changes in the TME in treated and distal tumors and the effect on the intratumoral T-cell receptor repertoire. RESULTS Intratumoral injection of MVA-IL-12 resulted in strong antitumor activity with the complete remission of established tumors in multiple murine models, including those resistant to checkpoint inhibitors. The therapeutic activity of MVA-IL-12 was associated with very low levels of circulating cytokine. Effective TME reprogramming was demonstrated on treatment, with the reduction of immunosuppressive M2 macrophages while increasing pro-inflammatory M1, and recruitment of dendritic cells. TME switch from immunosuppressive into immunostimulatory environment allowed for CD8 T cells priming and expansion leading to tumor attack. CONCLUSIONS Intratumoral administration of MVA-IL-12 turns immunologically 'cold' tumors 'hot' and overcomes resistance to programmed cell death protein-1 blockade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luigia Infante
- NousCom, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lidia Avalle
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science, University of Turin, Torino, Piemonte, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
D'Alise AM, Scarselli E. Getting personal in metastatic melanoma: neoantigen-based vaccines as a new therapeutic strategy. Curr Opin Oncol 2023; 35:94-99. [PMID: 36721894 PMCID: PMC9894148 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cancer vaccines are facing renewed interest, thanks to the progress recently achieved in the immunotherapy field, including the success of immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). The advances in understanding the CPI mode of action revealed a central role of neoantigens for the outcome of such treatments. Neoantigens became the preferred antigens for cancer vaccines and have been evaluated in several clinical trials. Here, we review the recent results from neoantigen-based vaccines in melanoma patients and discuss avenues for improvement. RECENT FINDINGS The importance of neoantigens for tumor control comes from the positive correlation between tumor mutational burden (TMB) and response to CPI. Preclinical studies have proved the effectiveness of neoantigen vaccines in models, expediting their clinical testing. Tumor mutations are not shared in most tumor types including melanoma, mandating the need of a personalized approach. Several clinical studies have shown the safety, feasibility, immunogenicity and preliminary evidence of antitumor activity of personalized vaccination. Currently, new trials have been started aiming to both confirm clinical activity and combining vaccines with other immunotherapies for improved efficacy. SUMMARY Personalized vaccines hold the promise for highly mutated and immunogenic cancers, including melanoma. Continuous efforts are underway to increase their likelihood of success.
Collapse
|
23
|
Neoantigens: promising targets for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:9. [PMID: 36604431 PMCID: PMC9816309 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 154.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in neoantigen research have accelerated the development and regulatory approval of tumor immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy and antibody-based therapies, especially for solid tumors. Neoantigens are newly formed antigens generated by tumor cells as a result of various tumor-specific alterations, such as genomic mutation, dysregulated RNA splicing, disordered post-translational modification, and integrated viral open reading frames. Neoantigens are recognized as non-self and trigger an immune response that is not subject to central and peripheral tolerance. The quick identification and prediction of tumor-specific neoantigens have been made possible by the advanced development of next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic technologies. Compared to tumor-associated antigens, the highly immunogenic and tumor-specific neoantigens provide emerging targets for personalized cancer immunotherapies, and serve as prospective predictors for tumor survival prognosis and immune checkpoint blockade responses. The development of cancer therapies will be aided by understanding the mechanism underlying neoantigen-induced anti-tumor immune response and by streamlining the process of neoantigen-based immunotherapies. This review provides an overview on the identification and characterization of neoantigens and outlines the clinical applications of prospective immunotherapeutic strategies based on neoantigens. We also explore their current status, inherent challenges, and clinical translation potential.
Collapse
|
24
|
Sei S, Ahadova A, Keskin DB, Bohaumilitzky L, Gebert J, von Knebel Doeberitz M, Lipkin SM, Kloor M. Lynch syndrome cancer vaccines: A roadmap for the development of precision immunoprevention strategies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1147590. [PMID: 37035178 PMCID: PMC10073468 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1147590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary cancer syndromes (HCS) account for 5~10% of all cancer diagnosis. Lynch syndrome (LS) is one of the most common HCS, caused by germline mutations in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. Even with prospective cancer surveillance, LS is associated with up to 50% lifetime risk of colorectal, endometrial, and other cancers. While significant progress has been made in the timely identification of germline pathogenic variant carriers and monitoring and early detection of precancerous lesions, cancer-risk reduction strategies are still centered around endoscopic or surgical removal of neoplastic lesions and susceptible organs. Safe and effective cancer prevention strategies are critically needed to improve the life quality and longevity of LS and other HCS carriers. The era of precision oncology driven by recent technological advances in tumor molecular profiling and a better understanding of genetic risk factors has transformed cancer prevention approaches for at-risk individuals, including LS carriers. MMR deficiency leads to the accumulation of insertion and deletion mutations in microsatellites (MS), which are particularly prone to DNA polymerase slippage during DNA replication. Mutations in coding MS give rise to frameshift peptides (FSP) that are recognized by the immune system as neoantigens. Due to clonal evolution, LS tumors share a set of recurrent and predictable FSP neoantigens in the same and in different LS patients. Cancer vaccines composed of commonly recurring FSP neoantigens selected through prediction algorithms have been clinically evaluated in LS carriers and proven safe and immunogenic. Preclinically analogous FSP vaccines have been shown to elicit FSP-directed immune responses and exert tumor-preventive efficacy in murine models of LS. While the immunopreventive efficacy of "off-the-shelf" vaccines consisting of commonly recurring FSP antigens is currently investigated in LS clinical trials, the feasibility and utility of personalized FSP vaccines with individual HLA-restricted epitopes are being explored for more precise targeting. Here, we discuss recent advances in precision cancer immunoprevention approaches, emerging enabling technologies, research gaps, and implementation barriers toward clinical translation of risk-tailored prevention strategies for LS carriers. We will also discuss the feasibility and practicality of next-generation cancer vaccines that are based on personalized immunogenic epitopes for precision cancer immunoprevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shizuko Sei
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Shizuko Sei, ; Steven M. Lipkin, ; Matthias Kloor,
| | - Aysel Ahadova
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Derin B. Keskin
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Computer Science, Metropolitan College, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lena Bohaumilitzky
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Gebert
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Magnus von Knebel Doeberitz
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steven M. Lipkin
- Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Shizuko Sei, ; Steven M. Lipkin, ; Matthias Kloor,
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Shizuko Sei, ; Steven M. Lipkin, ; Matthias Kloor,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Welty NE, Gill SI. Cancer Immunotherapy Beyond Checkpoint Blockade: JACC: CardioOncology State-of-the-Art Review. JACC CardioOncol 2022; 4:563-578. [PMID: 36636439 PMCID: PMC9830230 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccao.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Avoidance of immune destruction is recognized as one of the hallmarks of cancer development. Although first predicted as a potential antitumor treatment modality more than 50 years ago, the widespread clinical use of cancer immunotherapies has only recently become a reality. Cancer immunotherapy works by reactivation of a stalled pre-existing immune response or by eliciting a de novo immune response, and its toolkit comprises antibodies, vaccines, cytokines, and cell-based therapies. The treatment paradigm in some malignancies has completely changed over the past 10 to 15 years. Massive efforts in preclinical development have led to a surge of clinical trials testing innovative therapeutic approaches as monotherapy and, increasingly, in combination. Here we provide an overview of approved and emerging antitumor immune therapies, focusing on the rich landscape of therapeutic approaches beyond those that block the canonical PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 axes and placing them in the context of the latest understanding of tumor immunology.
Collapse
Key Words
- BiTE, bispecific T cell engager
- CAR, chimeric antigen receptor
- CRS, cytokine-release syndrome
- FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- HLA, human leukocyte antigen
- ICI, immune checkpoint inhibitor
- IL, interleukin
- NK, natural killer
- NSCLC, non–small cell lung cancer
- TIL, tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte
- alloHCT, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
- cancer
- immune therapy
- immunotherapy
- innovation
- mAb, monoclonal antibody
- treatment
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan E. Welty
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Saar I. Gill
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Address for correspondence: Dr Saar I. Gill, Smilow Center for Translational Research, Room 8-101, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tumor antigens and vaccines in colorectal cancer. MEDICINE IN DRUG DISCOVERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medidd.2022.100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
27
|
Research progress of neoantigens in gynecologic cancers. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109236. [PMID: 36113318 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of gynecological cancers have increased over the past decade. In the absence of effective treatment strategies, many advanced patients develop resistance to conventional therapies and have poor prognosis. Neoantigens have emerged as a novel tumor-specific antigen (TSA) that arises from genomic mutations in tumor cells. With higher immunogenicity than tumor-associated antigens (TAA), they have no risk of developing autoimmune response, leading them an attractive candidate for tumor therapeutic vaccines. With the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, the identification of neoantigens has been gradually improved, and the scope of application of neoantigen vaccines has continued to expand. Combined with other therapies such as immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) or adoptive cell therapy (ACT), the application of neoantigen in gynecological cancers has extended to clinical practice. Here, we reviewed the preclinical and clinical studies of neoantigens in gynecological cancers.
Collapse
|
28
|
D’Alise AM, Brasu N, De Intinis C, Leoni G, Russo V, Langone F, Baev D, Micarelli E, Petiti L, Picelli S, Fakih M, Le DT, Overman MJ, Shields AF, Pedersen KS, Shah MA, Mukherjee S, Faivre T, Delaite P, Scarselli E, Pace L. Adenoviral-based vaccine promotes neoantigen-specific CD8 + T cell stemness and tumor rejection. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabo7604. [PMID: 35947675 PMCID: PMC9844517 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abo7604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Upon chronic antigen exposure, CD8+ T cells become exhausted, acquiring a dysfunctional state correlated with the inability to control infection or tumor progression. In contrast, stem-like CD8+ T progenitors maintain the ability to promote and sustain effective immunity. Adenovirus (Ad)-vectored vaccines encoding tumor neoantigens have been shown to eradicate large tumors when combined with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (αPD-1) in murine models; however, the mechanisms and translational potential have not yet been elucidated. Here, we show that gorilla Ad vaccine targeting tumor neoepitopes enhances responses to αPD-1 therapy by improving immunogenicity and antitumor efficacy. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrated that the combination of Ad vaccine and αPD-1 increased the number of murine polyfunctional neoantigen-specific CD8+ T cells over αPD-1 monotherapy, with an accumulation of Tcf1+ stem-like progenitors in draining lymph nodes and effector CD8+ T cells in tumors. Combined T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing analysis highlighted a broader spectrum of neoantigen-specific CD8+ T cells upon vaccination compared to αPD-1 monotherapy. The translational relevance of these data is supported by results obtained in the first 12 patients with metastatic deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) tumors vaccinated with an Ad vaccine encoding shared neoantigens. Expansion and diversification of TCRs were observed in post-treatment biopsies of patients with clinical response, as well as an increase in tumor-infiltrating T cells with an effector memory signature. These findings indicate a promising mechanism to overcome resistance to PD-1 blockade by promoting immunogenicity and broadening the spectrum and magnitude of neoantigen-specific T cells infiltrating tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadia Brasu
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,University of Turin, 10060 Turin, Italy
| | - Carlo De Intinis
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy
| | | | - Valentina Russo
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,University of Turin, 10060 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Denis Baev
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy
| | | | - Luca Petiti
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy
| | - Simone Picelli
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marwan Fakih
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Dung T. Le
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | | - Anthony F. Shields
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Katrina S. Pedersen
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Elisa Scarselli
- Nouscom SRL, 00128 Rome, Italy,Corresponding author. (L. Pace); (E.S.)
| | - Luigia Pace
- Armenise-Harvard Immune Regulation Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO- IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (Turin), Italy,Corresponding author. (L. Pace); (E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jia W, Zhang T, Huang H, Feng H, Wang S, Guo Z, Luo Z, Ji X, Cheng X, Zhao R. Colorectal cancer vaccines: The current scenario and future prospects. Front Immunol 2022; 13:942235. [PMID: 35990683 PMCID: PMC9384853 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.942235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Current therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy encounter obstacles in preventing metastasis of CRC even when applied in combination. Immune checkpoint inhibitors depict limited effects due to the limited cases of CRC patients with high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). Cancer vaccines are designed to trigger the elevation of tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes, resulting in the intense response of the immune system to tumor antigens. This review briefly summarizes different categories of CRC vaccines, demonstrates the current outcomes of relevant clinical trials, and provides particular focus on recent advances on nanovaccines and neoantigen vaccines, representing the trend and emphasis of CRC vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoran Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaodong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zichao Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiping Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaopin Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaopin Ji, ; Xi Cheng, ; Ren Zhao,
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaopin Ji, ; Xi Cheng, ; Ren Zhao,
| | - Ren Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaopin Ji, ; Xi Cheng, ; Ren Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hernandez-Sanchez A, Grossman M, Yeung K, Sei SS, Lipkin S, Kloor M. Vaccines for immunoprevention of DNA mismatch repair deficient cancers. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004416. [PMID: 35732349 PMCID: PMC9226910 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer vaccines to induce tumor-antigen specific immune responses was sparked by the identification of antigens specific to or overexpressed in cancer cells. However, weak immunogenicity and the mutational heterogeneity in many cancers have dampened cancer vaccine successes. With increasing information about mutational landscapes of cancers, mutational neoantigens can be predicted computationally to elicit strong immune responses by CD8 +cytotoxic T cells as major mediators of anticancer immune response. Neoantigens are potentially more robust immunogens and have revived interest in cancer vaccines. Cancers with deficiency in DNA mismatch repair have an exceptionally high mutational burden, including predictable neoantigens. Lynch syndrome is the most common inherited cancer syndrome and is caused by DNA mismatch repair gene mutations. Insertion and deletion mutations in coding microsatellites that occur during DNA replication include tumorigenesis drivers. The induced shift of protein reading frame generates neoantigens that are foreign to the immune system. Mismatch repair-deficient cancers and Lynch syndrome represent a paradigm population for the development of a preventive cancer vaccine, as the mutations induced by mismatch repair deficiency are predictable, resulting in a defined set of frameshift peptide neoantigens. Furthermore, Lynch syndrome mutation carriers constitute an identifiable high-risk population. We discuss the pathogenesis of DNA mismatch repair deficient cancers, in both Lynch syndrome and sporadic microsatellite-unstable cancers. We review evidence for pre-existing immune surveillance, the three mechanisms of immune evasion that occur in cancers and assess the implications of a preventive frameshift peptide neoantigen-based vaccine. We consider both preclinical and clinical experience to date. We discuss the feasibility of a cancer preventive vaccine for Lynch syndrome carriers and review current antigen selection and delivery strategies. Finally, we propose RNA vaccines as having robust potential for immunoprevention of Lynch syndrome cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Hernandez-Sanchez
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, University Hospital Heidelberg Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mark Grossman
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kevin Yeung
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shizuko S Sei
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven Lipkin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Matthias Kloor
- University Hospital Heidelberg, Institute of Pathology, Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lang F, Schrörs B, Löwer M, Türeci Ö, Sahin U. Identification of neoantigens for individualized therapeutic cancer vaccines. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:261-282. [PMID: 35105974 PMCID: PMC7612664 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00387-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Somatic mutations in cancer cells can generate tumour-specific neoepitopes, which are recognized by autologous T cells in the host. As neoepitopes are not subject to central immune tolerance and are not expressed in healthy tissues, they are attractive targets for therapeutic cancer vaccines. Because the vast majority of cancer mutations are unique to the individual patient, harnessing the full potential of this rich source of targets requires individualized treatment approaches. Many computational algorithms and machine-learning tools have been developed to identify mutations in sequence data, to prioritize those that are more likely to be recognized by T cells and to design tailored vaccines for every patient. In this Review, we fill the gaps between the understanding of basic mechanisms of T cell recognition of neoantigens and the computational approaches for discovery of somatic mutations and neoantigen prediction for cancer immunotherapy. We present a new classification of neoantigens, distinguishing between guarding, restrained and ignored neoantigens, based on how they confer proficient antitumour immunity in a given clinical context. Such context-based differentiation will contribute to a framework that connects neoantigen biology to the clinical setting and medical peculiarities of cancer, and will enable future neoantigen-based therapies to provide greater clinical benefit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Lang
- TRON Translational Oncology, Mainz, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech, Mainz, Germany.
- University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Neoantigen: A Promising Target for the Immunotherapy of Colorectal Cancer. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:8270305. [PMID: 35211210 PMCID: PMC8863477 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8270305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
At present, there are various treatment strategies for colorectal cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. In recent years, with the continuous development of immunotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can significantly improve the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer patients with high levels of microsatellite instability. In addition to ICIs, neoantigens, as a class of tumor-specific antigens (TSA), are regarded as new immunotherapy targets for many cancer species and are being explored for antitumor therapy. Immunotherapy strategies based on neoantigens include tumor vaccines and adoptive cell therapy (ACT). These methods aim to eliminate tumor cells by enhancing the immune response of host T-cells to neoantigens. In addition, for MSS colorectal cancer, such “cold tumors” with low mutation rates and stable microsatellites are not sensitive to ICIs, whereas neoantigens could provide a promising immunotherapeutic avenue. In this review, we summarized the current status of colorectal cancer neoantigen prediction and current clinical trials of neoantigens and discussed the difficulties and limitations of neoantigens-based therapies for the treatment of CRC.
Collapse
|
33
|
Macaron C, Mankaney GN, Haider M, Mouchli M, Hurley K, Burke CA. Chemoprevention Considerations in Patients with Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am 2022; 32:131-146. [PMID: 34798982 DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Secondary prevention of colorectal neoplasia with chemoprevention is long-studied area of research and clinical use in patients with the 2 most common hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes including Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. No medication is currently approved for use for the prevention of colorectal polyps or cancer in either the general population or individuals with the hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes. Emerging data in animal models and limited data in humans suggest vaccines may be the next breakthrough for neoplasia prevention in patients with hereditary colorectal cancer. Clinicians must acknowledge chemoprevention is an adjunct and does not supplant endoscopic surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carole Macaron
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Desk A 30, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Gautam N Mankaney
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, 1100 9th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Mahnur Haider
- John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, #8016, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Mohamad Mouchli
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Desk A 30, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Digestive Disease and Surgical Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Karen Hurley
- Center for Behavioral Health, Desk P57, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Carol A Burke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Desk A 30, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sanford R. Weiss MD Center for Hereditary Gastrointestinal Neoplasia, Digestive Disease and Surgical Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
D'Alise AM, Leoni G, De Lucia M, Langone F, Nocchi L, Tucci FG, Micarelli E, Cotugno G, Troise F, Garzia I, Vitale R, Bignone V, Di Matteo E, Bartolomeo R, Charych DH, Lahm A, Zalevsky J, Nicosia A, Scarselli E. Maximizing cancer therapy via complementary mechanisms of immune activation: PD-1 blockade, neoantigen vaccination, and Tregs depletion. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-003480. [PMID: 34824160 PMCID: PMC8627409 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A number of different immune pathways are involved in the effective killing of cancer cells, collectively named as the ‘Cancer Immunity Cycle’. Anti-PD-1 checkpoint blockade (CPB) therapy is active on one of these pathways and reinvigorates anticancer T cell immunity, leading to long-term responses in a limited fraction of patients with cancer. We have previously shown that neoantigens-based adenovirus vectored vaccine in combination with anti-PD-1 further expands pre-existing anticancer immunity and elicits novel neoantigen-specific T cells thereby increasing efficacy to 50% of tumor clearance in mice. Here we added a third component to the CPB plus vaccine combination, which is able to modify the suppressive tumor microenvironment by reducing the number of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells (Tregs), as strategy for improving the therapeutic efficacy and overcoming resistance. Methods The antitumor efficacy of anti-PD-1, neoantigen vaccine and Treg modulating agents, either Bempegaldesleukin (BEMPEG: NKTR-214) or an anti-CTLA-4 mAb with Treg-depleting activity, was investigated in murine tumor models. We evaluated tumor growth in treated animals, neoantigen-specific T cells in tumors, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and intratumoral Tregs. Results The addition of BEMPEG or anti-CTLA-4 to the combination of vaccine and anti-PD-1 led to complete eradication of large tumors in nearby 100% of treated animals, in association with expansion and activation of cancer neoantigen-specific T cells and reduction of tumor-infiltrating Tregs. Conclusion These data support the notion that the integrated regulation of three steps of the cancer immunity cycle, including expansion of neoantigen-specific T cells, reversal of the exhausted T cell phenotype together with the reduction of intratumoral Tregs may represent a novel rationally designed drug combination approach to achieve higher cure rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alfredo Nicosia
- NousCom, Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Campania, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Roudko V, Cimen Bozkus C, Greenbaum B, Lucas A, Samstein R, Bhardwaj N. Lynch Syndrome and MSI-H Cancers: From Mechanisms to "Off-The-Shelf" Cancer Vaccines. Front Immunol 2021; 12:757804. [PMID: 34630437 PMCID: PMC8498209 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.757804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Defective DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) is associated with many cancer types including colon, gastric, endometrial, ovarian, hepatobiliary tract, urinary tract, brain and skin cancers. Lynch syndrome - a hereditary cause of dMMR - confers increased lifetime risk of malignancy in different organs and tissues. These Lynch syndrome pathogenic alleles are widely present in humans at a 1:320 population frequency of a single allele and associated with an up to 80% risk of developing microsatellite unstable cancer (microsatellite instability - high, or MSI-H). Advanced MSI-H tumors can be effectively treated with checkpoint inhibitors (CPI), however, that has led to response rates of only 30-60% despite their high tumor mutational burden and favorable immune gene signatures in the tumor microenvironment (TME). We and others have characterized a subset of MSI-H associated highly recurrent frameshift mutations that yield shared immunogenic neoantigens. These frameshifts might serve as targets for off-the-shelf cancer vaccine designs. In this review we discuss the current state of research around MSI-H cancer vaccine development, its application to MSI-H and Lynch syndrome cancer patients and the utility of MSI-H as a biomarker for CPI therapy. We also summarize the tumor intrinsic mechanisms underlying the high occurrence rates of certain frameshifts in MSI-H. Finally, we provide an overview of pivotal clinical trials investigating MSI-H as a biomarker for CPI therapy and MSI-H vaccines. Overall, this review aims to inform the development of novel research paradigms and therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Roudko
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Cansu Cimen Bozkus
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Benjamin Greenbaum
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Computational Oncology program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States.,Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Aimee Lucas
- Henry D. Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Samuel D. Bronfman Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Robert Samstein
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Nina Bhardwaj
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Vaccines for Non-Viral Cancer Prevention. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010900. [PMID: 34681560 PMCID: PMC8535337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer vaccines are a type of immune therapy that seeks to modulate the host’s immune system to induce durable and protective immune responses against cancer-related antigens. The little clinical success of therapeutic cancer vaccines is generally attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment at late-stage diseases. The administration of cancer-preventive vaccination at early stages, such as pre-malignant lesions or even in healthy individuals at high cancer risk could increase clinical efficacy by potentiating immune surveillance and pre-existing specific immune responses, thus eliminating de novo appearing lesions or maintaining equilibrium. Indeed, research focus has begun to shift to these approaches and some of them are yielding encouraging outcomes.
Collapse
|
37
|
Wu W, Liu Y, Zeng S, Han Y, Shen H. Intratumor heterogeneity: the hidden barrier to immunotherapy against MSI tumors from the perspective of IFN-γ signaling and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:160. [PMID: 34620200 PMCID: PMC8499512 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01166-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this era of precision medicine, with the help of biomarkers, immunotherapy has significantly improved prognosis of many patients with malignant tumor. Deficient mismatch repair (dMMR)/microsatellite instability (MSI) status is used as a biomarker in clinical practice to predict favorable response to immunotherapy and prognosis. MSI is an important characteristic which facilitates mutation and improves the likelihood of a favorable response to immunotherapy. However, many patients with dMMR/MSI still respond poorly to immunotherapies, which partly results from intratumor heterogeneity propelled by dMMR/MSI. In this review, we discuss how dMMR/MSI facilitates mutations in tumor cells and generates intratumor heterogeneity, especially through type II interferon (IFN-γ) signaling and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). We discuss the mechanism of immunotherapy from the perspective of dMMR/MSI, molecular pathways and TILs, and we discuss how intratumor heterogeneity hinders the therapeutic effect of immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize present techniques and strategies to look at the tumor as a whole to design personalized regimes and achieve favorable prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wantao Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
| | - Yihan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ye T, Li F, Ma G, Wei W. Enhancing therapeutic performance of personalized cancer vaccine via delivery vectors. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 177:113927. [PMID: 34403752 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, personalized cancer vaccines have gained increasing attention as emerging immunotherapies with the capability to overcome interindividual differences and show great benefits for individual patients in the clinic due to the highly tailored vaccine formulations. A large number of materials have been studied as delivery vectors to enhance the therapeutic performance of personalized cancer vaccines, including artificial materials, engineered microorganisms, cells and cell derivatives. These delivery vectors with distinct features are employed to change antigen biodistributions and to facilitate antigen uptake, processing and presentation, improving the strength, velocity, and duration of the immune response when delivered by different strategies. Here, we provide an overview of personalized cancer vaccine delivery vectors, describing their materials, physicochemical properties, delivery strategies and challenges for clinical transformation.
Collapse
|
39
|
Kurkowiak M, Grasso G, Faktor J, Scheiblecker L, Winniczuk M, Mayordomo MY, O'Neill JR, Oster B, Vojtesek B, Al-Saadi A, Marek-Trzonkowska N, Hupp TR. An integrated DNA and RNA variant detector identifies a highly conserved three base exon in the MAP4K5 kinase locus. RNA Biol 2021; 18:2556-2575. [PMID: 34190025 PMCID: PMC8632122 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.1932345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA variants that emerge from editing and alternative splicing form important regulatory stages in protein signalling. In this report, we apply an integrated DNA and RNA variant detection workbench to define the range of RNA variants that deviate from the reference genome in a human melanoma cell model. The RNA variants can be grouped into (i) classic ADAR-like or APOBEC-like RNA editing events and (ii) multiple-nucleotide variants (MNVs) including three and six base pair in-frame non-canonical unmapped exons. We focus on validating representative genes of these classes. First, clustered non-synonymous RNA edits (A-I) in the CDK13 gene were validated by Sanger sequencing to confirm the integrity of the RNA variant detection workbench. Second, a highly conserved RNA variant in the MAP4K5 gene was detected that results most likely from the splicing of a non-canonical three-base exon. The two RNA variants produced from the MAP4K5 locus deviate from the genomic reference sequence and produce V569E or V569del isoform variants. Low doses of splicing inhibitors demonstrated that the MAP4K5-V569E variant emerges from an SF3B1-dependent splicing event. Mass spectrometry of the recombinant SBP-tagged MAP4K5V569E and MAP4K5V569del proteins pull-downs in transfected cell systems was used to identify the protein-protein interactions of these two MAP4K5 isoforms and propose possible functions. Together these data highlight the utility of this integrated DNA and RNA variant detection platform to detect RNA variants in cancer cells and support future analysis of RNA variant detection in cancer tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Kurkowiak
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Giuseppa Grasso
- University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Jakub Faktor
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland.,Research Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lisa Scheiblecker
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Małgorzata Winniczuk
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marcos Yebenes Mayordomo
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland.,University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - J Robert O'Neill
- Cambridge Oesophagogastric Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bodil Oster
- QIAGEN Aarhus, Silkeborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Borek Vojtesek
- Research Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ali Al-Saadi
- University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland.,Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Cellular Therapies, Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ted R Hupp
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS), University of Gdańsk, 80-822 Gdańsk, Poland.,University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Microsatellite Instability in Colorectal Cancers: Carcinogenesis, Neo-Antigens, Immuno-Resistance and Emerging Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123063. [PMID: 34205397 PMCID: PMC8235567 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A deficient mismatch repair system (dMMR) results in microsatellite instability (MSI). The MSI status of a tumor predicts the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) that are now approved in patients with dMMR/MSI metastatic colorectal cancers. In addition to the mechanisms through which MSI can activate the immune system via particular neo-antigens, this review reports the clinical and pre-clinical strategies being developed in the case of resistance to ICI, including emerging therapies and new biomarkers. Abstract A defect in the DNA repair system through a deficient mismatch repair system (dMMR) leads to microsatellite instability (MSI). Microsatellites are located in both coding and non-coding sequences and dMMR/MSI tumors are associated with a high mutation burden. Some of these mutations occur in coding sequences and lead to the production of neo-antigens able to trigger an anti-tumoral immune response. This explains why non-metastatic MSI tumors are associated with high immune infiltrates and good prognosis. Metastatic MSI tumors result from tumor escape to the immune system and are associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance. Consequently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are highly effective and have recently been approved in dMMR/MSI metastatic colorectal cancers (mCRC). Nevertheless, some patients with dMMR/MSI mCRC have primary or secondary resistance to ICI. This review details carcinogenesis and the mechanisms through which MSI can activate the immune system. After which, we discuss mechanistic hypotheses in an attempt to explain primary and secondary resistances to ICI and emerging strategies being developed to overcome this phenomenon by targeting other immune checkpoints or through vaccination and modification of microbiota.
Collapse
|
41
|
Mechanisms of Immune Escape and Resistance to Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapies in Mismatch Repair Deficient Metastatic Colorectal Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112638. [PMID: 34072037 PMCID: PMC8199207 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A subset of colorectal cancers (CRCs) is characterized by a mismatch repair deficiency that is frequently associated with microsatellite instability (MSI). The compromised DNA repair machinery leads to the accumulation of tumor neoantigens affecting the sensitivity of MSI metastatic CRC to immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs), both upfront and in later lines of treatment. However, up to 30% of MSI CRCs exhibit primary resistance to frontline immune based therapy, and an additional subset develops acquired resistance. Here, we first discuss the clinical and molecular features of MSI CRCs and then we review how the loss of antigenicity, immunogenicity, and a hostile tumor microenvironment could influence primary and acquired resistance to CPIs. Finally, we describe strategies to improve the outcome of MSI CRC patients upon CPI treatment. Abstract Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) represent an effective therapeutic strategy for several different types of solid tumors and are remarkably effective in mismatch repair deficient (MMRd) tumors, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The prevalent view is that the elevated and dynamic neoantigen burden associated with the mutator phenotype of MMRd fosters enhanced immune surveillance of these cancers. In addition, recent findings suggest that MMRd tumors have increased cytosolic DNA, which triggers the cGAS STING pathway, leading to interferon-mediated immune response. Unfortunately, approximately 30% of MMRd CRC exhibit primary resistance to CPIs, while a substantial fraction of tumors acquires resistance after an initial benefit. Profiling of clinical samples and preclinical studies suggests that alterations in the Wnt and the JAK-STAT signaling pathways are associated with refractoriness to CPIs. Intriguingly, mutations in the antigen presentation machinery, such as loss of MHC or Beta-2 microglobulin (B2M), are implicated in initial immune evasion but do not impair response to CPIs. In this review, we outline how understanding the mechanistic basis of immune evasion and CPI resistance in MMRd CRC provides the rationale for innovative strategies to increase the subset of patients benefiting from CPIs.
Collapse
|
42
|
Abidi A, Gorris MAJ, Brennan E, Jongmans MCJ, Weijers DD, Kuiper RP, de Voer RM, Hoogerbrugge N, Schreibelt G, de Vries IJM. Challenges of Neoantigen Targeting in Lynch Syndrome and Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency Syndrome. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2345. [PMID: 34067951 PMCID: PMC8152233 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS) and constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) are hereditary disorders characterised by a highly increased risk of cancer development. This is due to germline aberrations in the mismatch repair (MMR) genes, which results in a high mutational load in tumours of these patients, including insertions and deletions in genes bearing microsatellites. This generates microsatellite instability and cause reading frameshifts in coding regions that could lead to the generation of neoantigens and opens up avenues for neoantigen targeting immune therapies prophylactically and therapeutically. However, major obstacles need to be overcome, such as the heterogeneity in tumour formation within and between LS and CMMRD patients, which results in considerable variability in the genes targeted by mutations, hence challenging the choice of suitable neoantigens. The machine-learning methods such as NetMHC and MHCflurry that predict neoantigen- human leukocyte antigen (HLA) binding affinity provide little information on other aspects of neoantigen presentation. Immune escape mechanisms that allow MMR-deficient cells to evade surveillance combined with the resistance to immune checkpoint therapy make the neoantigen targeting regimen challenging. Studies to delineate shared neoantigen profiles across patient cohorts, precise HLA binding algorithms, additional therapies to counter immune evasion and evaluation of biomarkers that predict the response of these patients to immune checkpoint therapy are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asima Abidi
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (A.A.); (M.A.J.G.); (E.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Mark A. J. Gorris
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (A.A.); (M.A.J.G.); (E.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Evan Brennan
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (A.A.); (M.A.J.G.); (E.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Marjolijn C. J. Jongmans
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (M.C.J.J.); (D.D.W.); (R.P.K.)
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dilys D. Weijers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (M.C.J.J.); (D.D.W.); (R.P.K.)
| | - Roland P. Kuiper
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (M.C.J.J.); (D.D.W.); (R.P.K.)
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Richarda M. de Voer
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (R.M.d.V.); (N.H.)
| | - Nicoline Hoogerbrugge
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (R.M.d.V.); (N.H.)
| | - Gerty Schreibelt
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (A.A.); (M.A.J.G.); (E.B.); (G.S.)
| | - I. Jolanda M. de Vries
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (A.A.); (M.A.J.G.); (E.B.); (G.S.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
Tumor metastasis is a singularly important determinant of survival in most cancers. Historically, radiation therapy (RT) directed at a primary tumor mass was associated infrequently with remission of metastasis outside the field of irradiation. This away-from-target or "abscopal effect" received fringe attention because of its rarity. With the advent of immunotherapy, there are now increasing reports of abscopal effects upon RT in combination with immune checkpoint inhibition. This sparked investigation into underlying mechanisms and clinical trials aimed at enhancement of this effect. While these studies clearly attribute the abscopal effect to an antitumor immune response, the initial molecular triggers for its onset and specificity remain enigmatic. Here, we propose that DNA damage-induced inflammation coupled with neoantigen generation is essential during this intriguing phenomenon of systemic tumor regression and discuss the implications of this model for treatment aimed at triggering the abscopal effect in metastatic cancer.
Collapse
|
44
|
Becker JP, Helm D, Rettel M, Stein F, Hernandez-Sanchez A, Urban K, Gebert J, Kloor M, Neu-Yilik G, von Knebel Doeberitz M, Hentze MW, Kulozik AE. NMD inhibition by 5-azacytidine augments presentation of immunogenic frameshift-derived neoepitopes. iScience 2021; 24:102389. [PMID: 33981976 PMCID: PMC8082087 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Frameshifted protein sequences elicit tumor-specific T cell-mediated immune responses in microsatellite-unstable (MSI) cancers if presented by HLA class I molecules. However, their expression and presentation are limited by nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD). We employed an unbiased immunopeptidomics workflow to analyze MSI HCT-116 cells and identified >10,000 HLA class I-presented peptides including five frameshift-derived InDel neoepitopes. Notably, pharmacological NMD inhibition with 5-azacytidine stabilizes frameshift-bearing transcripts and increases the HLA class I-mediated presentation of InDel neoepitopes. The frameshift mutation underlying one of the identified InDel neoepitopes is highly recurrent in MSI colorectal cancer cell lines and primary patient samples, and immunization with the corresponding neoepitope induces strong CD8+ T cell responses in an HLA-A∗02:01 transgenic mouse model. Our data show directly that pharmacological NMD inhibition augments HLA class I-mediated presentation of immunogenic frameshift-derived InDel neoepitopes thus highlighting the clinical potential of NMD inhibition in anti-cancer immunotherapy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas P. Becker
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dominic Helm
- Genomics and Proteomics Core Facility, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mandy Rettel
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Stein
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alejandro Hernandez-Sanchez
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina Urban
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Gebert
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Neu-Yilik
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Magnus von Knebel Doeberitz
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias W. Hentze
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas E. Kulozik
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Bashir B, Flickinger JC, Snook AE. Vaccines and immune checkpoint inhibitors: a promising combination strategy in gastrointestinal cancers. Immunotherapy 2021; 13:561-564. [PMID: 33724866 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2021-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tweetable abstract US FDA-approved immune checkpoint inhibitors have limited efficacy for gastrointestinal cancers such as #colorectalcancer and #pancreaticcancer. Could combinations with experimental cancer 'vaccines' be the key?
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Babar Bashir
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.,Departments of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - John C Flickinger
- Departments of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Adam E Snook
- Departments of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Thol K, McGranahan N. Potential Use of Shared Frameshift Mutations in 'Off-the-Shelf' Neoantigen Vaccines. Trends Cancer 2021; 7:175-177. [PMID: 33500225 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neoantigens derived from frameshift mutations in microsatellite unstable tumours are more commonly shared between different patients' cancers compared with neoantigens arising from missense mutations. A recent study by Roudko et al. evaluates the immunogenicity of shared frameshift neoantigens, which could potentially be used in 'off-the-shelf' neoantigen vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Thol
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK; Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Nicholas McGranahan
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK; Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Bansal D, Reimers MA, Knoche EM, Pachynski RK. Immunotherapy and Immunotherapy Combinations in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020334. [PMID: 33477569 PMCID: PMC7831137 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most prostate cancers are localized, and the majority are curable, recurrences occur in approximately 35% of men. Among patients with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) recurrence and PSA doubling time (PSADT) less than 15 months after radical prostatectomy, prostate cancer accounted for approximately 90% of the deaths by 15 years after recurrence. An immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and impaired cellular immunity are likely largely responsible for the limited utility of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) in advanced prostate cancer compared with other tumor types. Thus, for immunologically "cold" malignancies such as prostate cancer, clinical trial development has pivoted towards novel approaches to enhance immune responses. Numerous clinical trials are currently evaluating combination immunomodulatory strategies incorporating vaccine-based therapies, checkpoint inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Other trials evaluate the efficacy and safety of these immunomodulatory agents' combinations with standard approaches such as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), taxane-based chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) and poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Here, we will review promising immunotherapies in development and ongoing trials for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). These novel trials will build on past experiences and promise to usher a new era to treat patients with mCRPC.
Collapse
|
48
|
Blumendeller C, Boehme J, Frick M, Schulze M, Rinckleb A, Kyzirakos C, Kayser S, Kopp M, Kelkenberg S, Pieper N, Bartsch O, Hadaschick D, Battke F, Stenzl A, Biskup S. Use of plasma ctDNA as a potential biomarker for longitudinal monitoring of a patient with metastatic high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma receiving pembrolizumab and personalized neoepitope-derived multipeptide vaccinations: a case report. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2020-001406. [PMID: 33431630 PMCID: PMC7802705 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is often diagnosed late and exhibits poor prognosis. Only limited data are available concerning therapeutic regimes and potential biomarkers for disease monitoring. Standard therapies often provide only insufficient treatment options. Hence, immunotherapies and complementary approaches, such as personalized neoepitope-derived multipeptide vaccine (PNMV), come into focus. In this context, genetic analysis of tumor tissue by whole exome sequencing represents an essential diagnostic step in order to calculate tumor mutational burden (TMB) and to reveal tumor-specific neoantigens. Furthermore, disease progression is essential to be monitored. Longitudinal screening of individually known mutations in plasma circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) by the use of next-generation sequencing and digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) might be a promising method to fill this gap.Here, we present the case of a 55-year-old man who was diagnosed with high-risk metastatic UTUC in 2015. After initial surgery and palliative chemotherapy, he developed recurrence of the tumor. Genetic analysis revealed a high TMB of 41.2 mutations per megabase suggesting a potential success of immunotherapy. Therefore, in 2016, off-label treatment with the checkpoint-inhibitor pembrolizumab was started leading to strong regression of the disease. This therapy was then discontinued due to side effects and treatment with a previously produced PNMV was started that induced strong T cell responses. During both treatments, plasma Liquid Biopsies (pLBs) were performed to measure the number of mutated molecules per mL plasma (MM/mL) of a known tumor-specific variant in the MLH1 gene by ddPCR for longitudinal monitoring. Under treatment, MM/mL was constantly zero. A few months after all therapies had been discontinued, an increase of MM/mL was detected that persisted in the following pLBs. When MRI scans proved tumor recurrence, treatment with pembrolizumab was started again leading to a rapid decrease of MM/mL in the pLB to again zero. Treatment response was then also confirmed by MRI.This case shows that use of immunotherapy and PNMV might be a promising treatment option for patients with high-risk metastatic UTUC. Furthermore, measurement of individually known tumor mutations in plasma ctDNA by the use of pLB could be a very sensitive biomarker to longitudinally monitor disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julius Boehme
- Praxis für Humangenetik Tübingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Simone Kayser
- Praxis für Humangenetik Tübingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Arnulf Stenzl
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Saskia Biskup
- Praxis für Humangenetik Tübingen, Tuebingen, Germany .,CeGaT GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Sasso E, D'Alise AM, Zambrano N, Scarselli E, Folgori A, Nicosia A. New viral vectors for infectious diseases and cancer. Semin Immunol 2020; 50:101430. [PMID: 33262065 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2020.101430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery in 1796 by Edward Jenner of vaccinia virus as a way to prevent and finally eradicate smallpox, the concept of using a virus to fight another virus has evolved into the current approaches of viral vectored genetic vaccines. In recent years, key improvements to the vaccinia virus leading to a safer version (Modified Vaccinia Ankara, MVA) and the discovery that some viruses can be used as carriers of heterologous genes encoding for pathological antigens of other infectious agents (the concept of 'viral vectors') has spurred a new wave of clinical research potentially providing for a solution for the long sought after vaccines against major diseases such as HIV, TB, RSV and Malaria, or emerging infectious diseases including those caused by filoviruses and coronaviruses. The unique ability of some of these viral vectors to stimulate the cellular arm of the immune response and, most importantly, T lymphocytes with cell killing activity, has also reawakened the interest toward developing therapeutic vaccines against chronic infectious diseases and cancer. To this end, existing vectors such as those based on Adenoviruses have been improved in immunogenicity and efficacy. Along the same line, new vectors that exploit viruses such as Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV), Measles Virus (MV), Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), have emerged. Furthermore, technological progress toward modifying their genome to render some of these vectors incompetent for replication has increased confidence toward their use in infant and elderly populations. Lastly, their production process being the same for every product has made viral vectored vaccines the technology of choice for rapid development of vaccines against emerging diseases and for 'personalised' cancer vaccines where there is an absolute need to reduce time to the patient from months to weeks or days. Here we review the recent developments in viral vector technologies, focusing on novel vectors based on primate derived Adenoviruses and Poxviruses, Rhabdoviruses, Paramixoviruses, Arenaviruses and Herpesviruses. We describe the rationale for, immunologic mechanisms involved in, and design of viral vectored gene vaccines under development and discuss the potential utility of these novel genetic vaccine approaches in eliciting protection against infectious diseases and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Sasso
- Nouscom srl, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, Italy; Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate S.C. A.R.L., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy.
| | | | - Nicola Zambrano
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate S.C. A.R.L., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | - Alfredo Nicosia
- Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate S.C. A.R.L., via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|