1
|
Xu N, Wu Z, Pan J, Xu X, Wei Q. CAR-T cell therapy: Advances in digestive system malignant tumors. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200872. [PMID: 39377038 PMCID: PMC11456800 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/09/2024]
Abstract
Malignant tumors of the digestive system have had a notoriously dismal prognosis throughout history. Immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy are the primary therapeutic approaches for digestive system cancers. The rate of recurrence and metastasis, nevertheless, remains elevated. As one of the immunotherapies, chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy has demonstrated a promising antitumor effect in hematologic cancer. Despite undergoing numerous clinical trials, the ineffective antitumor effect and adverse effects of CAR-T cell therapy in the treatment of digestive system cancers continue to impede its clinical translation. It is necessary to surmount the restricted options for targeting proteins, the obstacles that impede CAR-T cell infiltration into solid tumors, and the limited survival time in vivo. We examined and summarized the developments, obstacles, and countermeasures associated with CAR-T therapy in digestive system cancers. Emphasis was placed on the regulatory functions of potential antigen targets, the tumor microenvironment, and immune evasion in CAR-T therapy. Thus, our analysis has furnished an all-encompassing comprehension of CAR-T cell therapy in digestive system cancers, which will generate tremendous enthusiasm for subsequent in-depth research into CAR-T-based therapies in digestive system cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Zhonglin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Jun Pan
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Childs A, Aidoo-Micah G, Maini MK, Meyer T. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101130. [PMID: 39308986 PMCID: PMC11414669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global healthcare challenge, with >1 million patients predicted to be affected annually by 2025. In contrast to other cancers, both incidence and mortality rates continue to rise, and HCC is now the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment landscape for advanced HCC, with trials demonstrating a superior overall survival benefit compared to sorafenib in the first-line setting. Combination therapy with either atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1) and bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) or durvalumab (anti-PD-L1) and tremelimumab (anti-CTLA-4) is now recognised as standard of care for advanced HCC. More recently, two phase III studies of ICI-based combination therapy in the early and intermediate disease settings have successfully met their primary end points of improved recurrence- and progression-free survival, respectively. Despite these advances, and in contrast to other tumour types, there remain no validated predictive biomarkers of response to ICIs in HCC. Ongoing research efforts are focused on further characterising the tumour microenvironment in order to select patients most likely to benefit from ICI and identify novel therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the current understanding of the immune landscape in which HCC develops and the evidence for ICI-based therapeutic strategies in HCC. Additionally, we describe the state of biomarker development and novel immunotherapy approaches in HCC which have progressed beyond the pre-clinical stage and into early-phase trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Childs
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gloryanne Aidoo-Micah
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tim Meyer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ren T, Huang Y. Recent advancements in improving the efficacy and safety of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03443-7. [PMID: 39316087 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03443-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
The liver is one of the most frequent sites of primary malignancies in humans. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent solid tumors with poor prognosis. Current treatments showed limited efficacy in some patients, and, therefore, alternative strategies, such as immunotherapy, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy (ACT), and recently chimeric antigen receptors (CAR)-T cells, are developed to offer better efficacy and safety profile in patients with HCC. Unlike other ACTs like tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), CAR-T cells are equipped with engineered CAR receptors that effectively identify tumor antigens and eliminate cancer cells without major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restriction. This process induces intracellular signaling, leading to T lymphocyte recruitment and subsequent activation of other effector cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Until today, novel approaches have been used to develop more potent CAR-T cells with robust persistence, specificity, trafficking, and safety. However, the clinical application of CAR-T cells in solid tumors is still challenging. Therefore, this study aims to review the advancement, prospects, and possible avenues of CAR-T cell application in HCC following an outline of the CAR structure and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Ren
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58 Zhongsahn 2nd Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yonghui Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No.58 Zhongsahn 2nd Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Thangaraj JL, Coffey M, Lopez E, Kaufman DS. Disruption of TGF-β signaling pathway is required to mediate effective killing of hepatocellular carcinoma by human iPSC-derived NK cells. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:1327-1343.e5. [PMID: 38986609 PMCID: PMC11380586 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.06.009] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is highly expressed in the liver tumor microenvironment and is known to inhibit immune cell activity. Here, we used human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to produce natural killer (NK) cells engineered to mediate improved anti-HCC activity. Specifically, we produced iPSC-NK cells with either knockout TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-KO) or expression of a dominant negative (DN) form of the TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-DN) combined with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target either GPC3 or AFP. The TGFBR2-KO and TGFBR2-DN iPSC-NK cells are resistant to TGF-β inhibition and improved anti-HCC activity. However, expression of anti-HCC CARs on iPSC-NK cells did not lead to effective anti-HCC activity unless there was also inhibition of TGF-β activity. Our findings demonstrate that TGF-β signaling blockade is required for effective NK cell function against HCC and potentially other malignancies that express high levels of TGF-β.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Lakshmi Thangaraj
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michael Coffey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Edith Lopez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dan S Kaufman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abstract
ABSTRACT Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Its high recurrence rate and lack of effective control drugs result in a 5-year survival rate of only about 10%. HCC is a tumor regulated by the immune system. Significant breakthroughs have occurred in treating solid tumors with immunotherapy in recent years. Various immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including combination therapies, have demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in both clinical applications and research. Other immunotherapies, such as adoptive cell therapies and oncolytic viruses, are also emerging, offering hope for addressing long-term survival issues in HCC. This article reviews current commonly used immunotherapy strategies and the latest research findings for reference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen K, Shuen TWH, Chow PKH. The association between tumour heterogeneity and immune evasion mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma and its clinical implications. Br J Cancer 2024; 131:420-429. [PMID: 38760445 PMCID: PMC11300599 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02684-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The emergence of combination therapy, atezolizumab (anti-PDL1, immune checkpoint inhibitor) and bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) has revolutionised the management of HCC. Despite this breakthrough, the best overall response rate with first-line systemic therapy is only about 30%, owing to intra-tumoural heterogeneity, complex tumour microenvironment and the lack of predictive biomarkers. Many groups have attempted to classify HCC based on the immune microenvironment and have consistently observed better outcomes in immunologically "hot" HCC. We summarised possible mechanisms of tumour immune evasion based on the latest literature and the rationale for combination/sequential therapy to improve treatment response. Lastly, we proposed future strategies and therapies to overcome HCC immune evasion to further improve treatment outcomes of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaina Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Timothy W H Shuen
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pierce K H Chow
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary and Transplant Surgery, National Cancer Centre Singapore and Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
- Program in Translational and Clinical Liver Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Du G, Dou C, Sun P, Wang S, Liu J, Ma L. Regulatory T cells and immune escape in HCC: understanding the tumor microenvironment and advancing CAR-T cell therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1431211. [PMID: 39136031 PMCID: PMC11317284 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1431211] [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: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, which most commonly manifests as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the sixth most common cancer in the world. In HCC, the immune system plays a crucial role in the growth and proliferation of tumor cells. HCC achieve immune escape through the tumor microenvironment, which significantly promotes the development of this cancer. Here, this article introduces and summarizes the functions and effects of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumor microenvironment, highlighting how Tregs inhibit and regulate the functions of immune and tumor cells, cytokines, ligands and receptors, etc, thereby promoting tumor immune escape. In addition, it discusses the mechanism of CAR-T therapy for HCC and elaborate on the relationship between CAR-T and Tregs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangtan Du
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Cunmiao Dou
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Leina Ma
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Marin JJG, Macias RIR, Asensio M, Romero MR, Temprano AG, Pereira OR, Jimenez S, Mauriz JL, Di Giacomo S, Avila MA, Efferth T, Briz O. Strategies to enhance the response of liver cancer to pharmacological treatments. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C11-C33. [PMID: 38708523 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00176.2024] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
In contrast to other types of cancers, there is no available efficient pharmacological treatment to improve the outcomes of patients suffering from major primary liver cancers, i.e., hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. This dismal situation is partly due to the existence in these tumors of many different and synergistic mechanisms of resistance, accounting for the lack of response of these patients, not only to classical chemotherapy but also to more modern pharmacological agents based on the inhibition of tyrosine kinase receptors (TKIs) and the stimulation of the immune response against the tumor using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This review summarizes the efforts to develop strategies to overcome this severe limitation, including searching for novel drugs derived from synthetic, semisynthetic, or natural products with vectorial properties against therapeutic targets to increase drug uptake or reduce drug export from cancer cells. Besides, immunotherapy is a promising line of research that is already starting to be implemented in clinical practice. Although less successful than in other cancers, the foreseen future for this strategy in treating liver cancers is considerable. Similarly, the pharmacological inhibition of epigenetic targets is highly promising. Many novel "epidrugs," able to act on "writer," "reader," and "eraser" epigenetic players, are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies. Finally, gene therapy is a broad field of research in the fight against liver cancer chemoresistance, based on the impressive advances recently achieved in gene manipulation. In sum, although the present is still dismal, there is reason for hope in the non-too-distant future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose J G Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocio I R Macias
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro G Temprano
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Olívia R Pereira
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Laboratório Associado para a Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Silvia Jimenez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Farmacia Hospitalaria, Hospital de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jose L Mauriz
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Matias A Avila
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra (IdisNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Heumann P, Albert A, Gülow K, Tümen D, Müller M, Kandulski A. Insights in Molecular Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1831. [PMID: 38791911 PMCID: PMC11120383 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101831] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive review of the current literature of published data and clinical trials (MEDLINE), as well as published congress contributions and active recruiting clinical trials on targeted therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma. Combinations of different agents and medical therapy along with radiological interventions were analyzed for the setting of advanced HCC. Those settings were also analyzed in combination with adjuvant situations after resection or radiological treatments. We summarized the current knowledge for each therapeutic setting and combination that currently is or has been under clinical evaluation. We further discuss the results in the background of current treatment guidelines. In addition, we review the pathophysiological mechanisms and pathways for each of these investigated targets and drugs to further elucidate the molecular background and underlying mechanisms of action. Established and recommended targeted treatment options that already exist for patients are considered for systemic treatment: atezolizumab/bevacizumab, durvalumab/tremelimumab, sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, regorafenib, and ramucirumab. Combination treatment for systemic treatment and local ablative treatment or transarterial chemoembolization and adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment strategies are under clinical investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Heumann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany (K.G.); (D.T.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Arne Kandulski
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany (K.G.); (D.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ali FEM, Ibrahim IM, Althagafy HS, Hassanein EHM. Role of immunotherapies and stem cell therapy in the management of liver cancer: A comprehensive review. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112011. [PMID: 38581991 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer (LC) is the sixth most common disease and the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality. The WHO predicts that more than 1 million deaths will occur from LC by 2030. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common form of primary LC. Today, the management of LC involves multiple disciplines, and multimodal therapy is typically selected on an individual basis, considering the intricate interactions between the patient's overall health, the stage of the tumor, and the degree of underlying liver disease. Currently, the treatment of cancers, including LC, has undergone a paradigm shift in the last ten years because of immuno-oncology. To treat HCC, immune therapy approaches have been developed to enhance or cause the body's natural immune response to specifically target tumor cells. In this context, immune checkpoint pathway inhibitors, engineered cytokines, adoptive cell therapy, immune cells modified with chimeric antigen receptors, and therapeutic cancer vaccines have advanced to clinical trials and offered new hope to cancer patients. The outcomes of these treatments are encouraging. Additionally, treatment using stem cells is a new approach for restoring deteriorated tissues because of their strong differentiation potential and capacity to release cytokines that encourage cell division and the formation of blood vessels. Although there is no proof that stem cell therapy works for many types of cancer, preclinical research on stem cells has shown promise in treating HCC. This review provides a recent update regarding the impact of immunotherapy and stem cells in HCC and promising outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt; Michael Sayegh, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba 77110, Jordan.
| | - Islam M Ibrahim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gong K, Jiao J, Wu Z, Wang Q, Liao J, Duan Y, Lin J, Yu J, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Duan Y. Nanosystem Delivers Senescence Activators and Immunomodulators to Combat Liver Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308310. [PMID: 38520730 PMCID: PMC11132057 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
CD47 blockade has emerged as a promising immunotherapy against liver cancer. However, the optimization of its antitumor effectiveness using efficient drug delivery systems or combinations of therapeutic agents remains largely incomplete. Here, patients with liver cancer co-expressing CD47 and CDC7 (cell division cycle 7, a negative senescence-related gene) are found to have the worst prognosis. Moreover, CD47 is highly expressed, and senescence is inhibited after the development of chemoresistance, suggesting that combination therapy targeting CD47 and CDC7 to inhibit CD47 and induce senescence may be a promising strategy for liver cancer. The efficacy of intravenously administered CDC7 and CD47 inhibitors is limited by low uptake and short circulation times. Here, inhibitors are coloaded into a dual-targeted nanosystem. The sequential release of the inhibitors from the nanosystem under acidic conditions first induces cellular senescence and then promotes immune responses. In an in situ liver cancer mouse model and a chemotherapy-resistant mouse model, the nanosystem effectively inhibited tumor growth by 90.33% and 85.15%, respectively. Overall, the nanosystem in this work achieved the sequential release of CDC7 and CD47 inhibitors in situ to trigger senescence and induce immunotherapy, effectively combating liver cancer and overcoming chemoresistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Juyang Jiao
- Department of Bone and Joint SurgeryDepartment of OrthopedicsRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200001P. R. China
| | - Zhihua Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Quan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jinghan Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yi Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jiangtao Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jian Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Ying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringShanghai Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Thermal AgingShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200240P. R. China
| | - Yourong Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerShanghai Cancer InstituteRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Shen KY, Zhu Y, Xie SZ, Qin LX. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: current status and prospectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:25. [PMID: 38679698 PMCID: PMC11057182 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01549-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have made great progress in the systemic treatment of HCC. The combination treatments based on ICIs have been the major trend in this area. Recently, dual immune checkpoint blockade with durvalumab plus tremelimumab has also emerged as an effective treatment for advanced HCC. However, the majority of HCC patients obtain limited benefits. Understanding the immunological rationale and exploring novel ways to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy has drawn much attention. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in this area, the ongoing clinical trials of immune-based combination therapies, as well as novel immunotherapy strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells, personalized neoantigen vaccines, oncolytic viruses, and bispecific antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Yu Shen
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sun-Zhe Xie
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lun-Xiu Qin
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lu Y, Lin B, Li M. The role of alpha-fetoprotein in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1363695. [PMID: 38660138 PMCID: PMC11039944 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1363695] [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: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignant cancer worldwide, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein synthesized by the liver and yolk sac during fetal development. However, the serum levels of AFP exhibit a significant correlation with the onset and progression of HCC in adults. Extensive research has demonstrated that the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the malignant transformation of HCC, and AFP is a key factor in the TME, promoting HCC development. The objective of this review was to analyze the existing knowledge regarding the role of AFP in the TME. Specifically, this review focused on the effect of AFP on various cells in the TME, tumor immune evasion, and clinical application of AFP in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. These findings offer valuable insights into the clinical treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang J, Wang L, Zhang S, Cao R, Zhao Y, Zhao Y, Song Y, Guo Z. Alpha-fetoprotein predicts the treatment efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors for gastric cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:266. [PMID: 38408930 PMCID: PMC10895833 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11999-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are commonly used in conjunction with chemotherapy to improve treatment outcomes for patients with gastric cancer. Since AFP could influence immunity by both inhibiting natural killer (NK) cells and regulating negatively the function of dendritic cells, we evaluated the influence of baseline serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels on the curative effect of ICIs in advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on 158 AGC patients who underwent ICI treatment. The patients were divided into high and low groups based on the AFP threshold of 20 ng/ml. The efficacy of ICI treatment was assessed using objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). RESULTS The higher levels of baseline AFP were found to be associated with a decrease in the effectiveness of ICIs, as evidenced by a DCR of 50.0% in the group with high AFP levels compared to 87.7% in the group with low AFP levels (P < 0.001). Further analysis using Kaplan-Meier survival techniques indicated that a high AFP level was linked to shorter progression-free survival (PFS) (P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0.001) in AGC individuals receiving ICIs. After propensity score matching, a log rank test revealed that the high AFP group had a decrease in median PFS (P = 0.011) and median OS (P = 0.036) compared to the low AFP group. The high AFP levels also showed its association with shorter PFS and OS in the subgroup analysis of ICI plus chemotherapy patients. CONCLUSIONS Baseline AFP levels may predict immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment efficacy in AGC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Shasha Zhang
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Ruijie Cao
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Yufei Zhao
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Yanrong Song
- Department of Medical Technology, Xingtai Medical College, 054000, Xingtai, Hebei, P.R. China
| | - Zhanjun Guo
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 12 Jiankang Road, 050011, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Aggeletopoulou I, Kalafateli M, Triantos C. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Where Do We Stand? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2631. [PMID: 38473878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052631] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a global health challenge that urgently calls for innovative therapeutic strategies. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T) therapy has emerged as a promising avenue for HCC treatment. However, the therapeutic efficacy of CAR T immunotherapy in HCC patients is significantly compromised by some major issues including the immunosuppressive environment within the tumor, antigen heterogeneity, CAR T cell exhaustion, and the advanced risk for on-target/off-tumor toxicity. To overcome these challenges, many ongoing preclinical and clinical trials are underway focusing on the identification of optimal target antigens and the decryption of the immunosuppressive milieu of HCC. Moreover, limited tumor infiltration constitutes a significant obstacle of CAR T cell therapy that should be addressed. The continuous effort to design molecular targets for CAR cells highlights the importance for a more practical approach for CAR-modified cell manufacturing. This review critically examines the current landscape of CAR T cell therapy for HCC, shedding light on the changes in innate and adaptive immune responses in the context of HCC, identifying potential CAR T cell targets, and exploring approaches to overcome inherent challenges. Ongoing advancements in scientific research and convergence of diverse treatment modalities offer the potential to greatly enhance HCC patients' care in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Aggeletopoulou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Kalafateli
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Patras, 26332 Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mustafa SK, Khan MF, Sagheer M, Kumar D, Pandey S. Advancements in biosensors for cancer detection: revolutionizing diagnostics. Med Oncol 2024; 41:73. [PMID: 38372827 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02297-y] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stands as the reigning champion of life-threatening diseases, casting a shadow with the highest global mortality rate. Unleashing the power of early cancer treatment is a vital weapon in the battle for efficient and positive outcomes. Yet, conventional screening procedures wield limitations of exorbitant costs, time-consuming endeavors, and impracticality for repeated testing. Enter bio-marker-based cancer diagnostics, which emerge as a formidable force in the realm of early detection, disease progression assessment, and ultimate cancer therapy. These remarkable devices boast a reputation for their exceptional sensitivity, streamlined setup requirements, and lightning fast response times. In this study, we embark on a captivating exploration of the most recent advancements and enhancements in the field of electrochemical marvels, targeting the detection of numerous cancer biomarkers. With each breakthrough, we inch closer to a future where cancer's grip on humanity weakens, guided by the promise of personalized treatment and improved patient outcomes. Together, we unravel the mysteries that cancer conceals and illuminate a path toward triumph against this daunting adversary. This study celebrates the relentless pursuit of progress, where electrochemical innovations take center stage in the quest for a world free from the clutches of carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syed Khalid Mustafa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, P.O. Box 741, Zip 71491, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohd Farhan Khan
- Faculty of Science, Gagan College of Management & Technology, Aligarh, 202002, India
| | - Mehak Sagheer
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Sadanand Pandey
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Food Technology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sadagopan N, He AR. Recent Progress in Systemic Therapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1259. [PMID: 38279258 PMCID: PMC10816205 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have several systemic treatment options. There are many known risk factors for HCC, and although some, such as hepatitis C, are now treatable, others are not. For example, metabolic dysfunction-related chronic liver disease is increasing in incidence and has no specific treatment. Underlying liver disease, drug resistance, and an increasing number of treatment options without specific biomarkers are all challenges in selecting the best treatment for each patient. Conventional chemotherapy is almost never used for advanced-stage disease, which instead is treated with immunotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and VEGF inhibitors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting various receptors have been or are currently undergoing clinical evaluation. Ongoing trials with three-drug regimens may be the future of advanced-stage HCC treatment. Other immune-modulatory approaches of chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells, bispecific antibodies, cytokine-induced killer cells, natural killer cells, and vaccines are in early-stage clinical trials. Targeted therapies remain limited for HCC but represent an area of potential growth. As we shift away from first-line sorafenib for advanced HCC, clinical trial control arms should comprise a standard treatment other than sorafenib, one that is a better comparator for advancing therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narayanan Sadagopan
- MedStar Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu J, Park K, Shen Z, Lee H, Geetha P, Pakyari M, Chai L. Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and their cross talks in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285370. [PMID: 38173713 PMCID: PMC10762788 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging malignancy with limited treatment options beyond surgery and chemotherapy. Recent advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapy, including PD-1 and PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies, have shown promise, but their efficacy has not met expectations. Biomarker testing and personalized medicine based on genetic mutations and other biomarkers represent the future direction for HCC treatment. To address these challenges and opportunities, this comprehensive review discusses the progress made in targeted therapies and immunotherapies for HCC, focusing on dissecting the rationales, opportunities, and challenges for combining these modalities. The liver's unique physiology and the presence of fibrosis in many HCC patients pose additional challenges to drug delivery and efficacy. Ongoing efforts in biomarker development and combination therapy design, especially in the context of immunotherapies, hold promise for improving outcomes in advanced HCC. Through exploring the advancements in biomarkers and targeted therapies, this review provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field and proposes strategies for rational combination therapy design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kevin Park
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ziyang Shen
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hannah Lee
- University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | - Mohammadreza Pakyari
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Li Chai
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wu D, Li Y. Application of adoptive cell therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunology 2023; 170:453-469. [PMID: 37435926 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a global health challenge. Novel treatment modalities are urgently needed to extend the overall survival of patients. The liver plays an immunomodulatory function due to its unique physiological structural characteristics. Therefore, following surgical resection and radiotherapy, immunotherapy regimens have shown great potential in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Adoptive cell immunotherapy is rapidly developing in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we summarize the latest research on adoptive immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. The focus is on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells and T cell receptor (TCR) engineered T cells. Then tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), natural killer (NK) cells, cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells, and macrophages are briefly discussed. The main overview of the application and challenges of adoptive immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. It aims to provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the current status of HCC adoptive immunotherapy and offers some strategies. We hope to provide new ideas for the clinical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dengqiang Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yujie Li
- Clinical Laboratory of Ningbo Medical Centre Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Zhejiang, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Malviya M, Aretz Z, Molvi Z, Lee J, Pierre S, Wallisch P, Dao T, Scheinberg DA. Challenges and solutions for therapeutic TCR-based agents. Immunol Rev 2023; 320:58-82. [PMID: 37455333 PMCID: PMC11141734 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13233] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent development of methods to discover and engineer therapeutic T-cell receptors (TCRs) or antibody mimics of TCRs, and to understand their immunology and pharmacology, lag two decades behind therapeutic antibodies. Yet we have every expectation that TCR-based agents will be similarly important contributors to the treatment of a variety of medical conditions, especially cancers. TCR engineered cells, soluble TCRs and their derivatives, TCR-mimic antibodies, and TCR-based CAR T cells promise the possibility of highly specific drugs that can expand the scope of immunologic agents to recognize intracellular targets, including mutated proteins and undruggable transcription factors, not accessible by traditional antibodies. Hurdles exist regarding discovery, specificity, pharmacokinetics, and best modality of use that will need to be overcome before the full potential of TCR-based agents is achieved. HLA restriction may limit each agent to patient subpopulations and off-target reactivities remain important barriers to widespread development and use of these new agents. In this review we discuss the unique opportunities for these new classes of drugs, describe their unique antigenic targets, compare them to traditional antibody therapeutics and CAR T cells, and review the various obstacles that must be overcome before full application of these drugs can be realized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish Malviya
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
| | - Zita Aretz
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
| | - Zaki Molvi
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
| | - Jayop Lee
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
| | - Stephanie Pierre
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Tri-Institutional Medical Scientist Program, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
| | - Patrick Wallisch
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
| | - Tao Dao
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
| | - David A. Scheinberg
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ma H, Wei W, Liang D, Xu X, Yang D, Wang Q, Wang Y, Wei Q, Sun B, Zhao X. HGF-Based CAR-T Cells Target Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells That Express High Levels of c-Met. Immunol Invest 2023; 52:735-748. [PMID: 37409941 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2023.2232402] [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: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CAR-T is emerging as an effective treatment strategy for hematologic malignancies, however its effectiveness for treating solid tumors, such as Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is limited. Here, we screened a variety of CAR-T cells that target c-Met to investigate their potential to induce HCC cell death in vitro. METHODS Human T cells were transduced to express CARs by lentiviral vector transfection. c-Met expression in human HCC cell lines and CARs expression were monitored by flow cytometry. Tumor cell killing was evaluated by Luciferase Assay System Kit. The concentrations of cytokine were tested by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Knock down and overexpression studies targeting c-Met were conducted to assess the targeting specificity of CARs. RESULTS We found that CAR T cells expressing a minimal amino-terminal polypeptide sequence comprising the first kringle (kringle 1) domain (denoted as NK1 CAR-T cells), efficiently killed HCC cell lines that expressed high levels of the HGF receptor c-Met. Furthermore, we report that while NK1 CAR-T cells were efficient at targeting SMMC7221 cells for destruction, and its potency was significantly attenuated in parallel experiments with cells stably expressing short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) that suppressed c-Met expression. Correspondingly, overexpression of c-Met in the embryonic kidney cell line HEK293T led to their enhanced killing by NK1 CAR-T cells. CONCLUSION Our studies demonstrate that a minimal amino-terminal polypeptide sequence comprising the kirngle1 domain of HGF is highly relevant to the design of effective CAR-T cell therapies that kill HCC cells expressing high levels of c-Met.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Ma
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenwen Wei
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dandan Liang
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Core Facilities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Yang
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Quan Wei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cui Y, Luo M, Gu C, He Y, Yao Y, Li P. CAR designs for solid tumors: overcoming hurdles and paving the way for effective immunotherapy. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2023; 9:279-297. [PMID: 38516299 PMCID: PMC10951476 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2023.230020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy has revolutionized immunotherapy by modifying patients' immune cells genetically. By expressing CARs, these modified cells can specifically identify and eliminate tumor cells. The success of CAR-T therapy in hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma, has been remarkable. Numerous studies have reported improved patient outcomes and increased survival rates. However, the application of CAR-T therapy in treating solid tumors faces significant challenges. Solid tumors possess complex microenvironments containing stromal cells, extracellular matrix components, and blood vessels. These factors can impede the infiltration and persistence of CAR-T cells within the tumor. Additionally, the lack of target antigens exclusively expressed on tumor cells raises concerns about off-target effects and potential toxicity. This review aims to discuss advancements achieved by CAR-T therapy in solid tumors and the clinical outcomes in the realm of solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanbin Cui
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Mintao Luo
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Chuanyuan Gu
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Yuxian He
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0021, USA
| | - Yao Yao
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Peng Li
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen X, Lu Q, Zhou H, Liu J, Nadorp B, Lasry A, Sun Z, Lai B, Rona G, Zhang J, Cammer M, Wang K, Al-Santli W, Ciantra Z, Guo Q, You J, Sengupta D, Boukhris A, Zhang H, Liu C, Cresswell P, Dahia PLM, Pagano M, Aifantis I, Wang J. A membrane-associated MHC-I inhibitory axis for cancer immune evasion. Cell 2023; 186:3903-3920.e21. [PMID: 37557169 PMCID: PMC10961051 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Immune-checkpoint blockade has revolutionized cancer treatment, but some cancers, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML), do not respond or develop resistance. A potential mode of resistance is immune evasion of T cell immunity involving aberrant major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) antigen presentation (AP). To map such mechanisms of resistance, we identified key MHC-I regulators using specific peptide-MHC-I-guided CRISPR-Cas9 screens in AML. The top-ranked negative regulators were surface protein sushi domain containing 6 (SUSD6), transmembrane protein 127 (TMEM127), and the E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP2. SUSD6 is abundantly expressed in AML and multiple solid cancers, and its ablation enhanced MHC-I AP and reduced tumor growth in a CD8+ T cell-dependent manner. Mechanistically, SUSD6 forms a trimolecular complex with TMEM127 and MHC-I, which recruits WWP2 for MHC-I ubiquitination and lysosomal degradation. Together with the SUSD6/TMEM127/WWP2 gene signature, which negatively correlates with cancer survival, our findings define a membrane-associated MHC-I inhibitory axis as a potential therapeutic target for both leukemia and solid cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xufeng Chen
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Qiao Lu
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Hua Zhou
- Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Bettina Nadorp
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Audrey Lasry
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Zhengxi Sun
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Baoling Lai
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Gergely Rona
- The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Jiangyan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Michael Cammer
- Microscopy Core, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Wafa Al-Santli
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Zoe Ciantra
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Qianjin Guo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jia You
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Debrup Sengupta
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Ahmad Boukhris
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Cheng Liu
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., Emeryville, CA 94608, USA
| | - Peter Cresswell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Patricia L M Dahia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Michele Pagano
- The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Iannis Aifantis
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; The Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Xu Y, Zhang X, Zhang R, Sun Y, Liu J, Luo C, Yang J, Fang W, Guo Q, Wei L. AFP deletion leads to anti-tumorigenic but pro-metastatic roles in liver cancers with concomitant CTNNB1 mutations. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216240. [PMID: 37217071 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
HCC remains one of the most prevalent and deadliest cancers. Serum AFP level is a biomarker for clinical diagnosis of HCC, instead the contribution of AFP to HCC development is clearly highly complex. Here, we discussed the effect of AFP deletion in the tumorigenesis and progression of HCC. AFP deletion in HepG2 cells inhibited the cell proliferation by inactivating PI3K/AKT signaling. Surprisingly, AFP KO HepG2 cells appeared the increasing metastatic capacity and EMT phenotype, which was attributed to the activation of WNT5A/β-catenin signal. Further studies revealed that the activating mutations of CTNNB1 was closely related with the unconventional pro-metastatic roles of AFP deletion. Consistently, the results of DEN/CCl4-induced HCC mouse model also suggested that AFP knockout suppressed the growth of HCC primary tumors, but promoted lung metastasis. Despite the discordant effect of AFP deletion in HCC progression, a drug candidate named OA showed the potent suppression of HCC tumor growth by interrupting AFP-PTEN interaction and, importantly, reduced the lung metastasis of HCC via angiogenesis suppression. Thus, this study demonstrates an unconventional effect of AFP in HCC progression, and suggests a potent candidate strategy for HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Tripod Preclinincal Research Laboratories Co., Ltd., No. 9 Xinglong Road, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruitian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuening Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengju Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Junyi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiming Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinglong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Libin Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lu X, Deng S, Xu J, Green BL, Zhang H, Cui G, Zhou Y, Zhang Y, Xu H, Zhang F, Mao R, Zhong S, Cramer T, Evert M, Calvisi DF, He Y, Liu C, Chen X. Combination of AFP vaccine and immune checkpoint inhibitors slows hepatocellular carcinoma progression in preclinical models. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e163291. [PMID: 37040183 PMCID: PMC10231990 DOI: 10.1172/jci163291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Many patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) do not respond to the first-line immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Immunization with effective cancer vaccines is an attractive alternative approach to immunotherapy. However, its efficacy remains insufficiently evaluated in preclinical studies. Here, we investigated HCC-associated self/tumor antigen, α-fetoprotein-based (AFP-based) vaccine immunization for treating AFP (+) HCC mouse models. We found that AFP immunization effectively induced AFP-specific CD8+ T cells in vivo. However, these CD8+ T cells expressed exhaustion markers, including PD1, LAG3, and Tim3. Furthermore, the AFP vaccine effectively prevented c-MYC/Mcl1 HCC initiation when administered before tumor formation, while it was ineffective against full-blown c-MYC/Mcl1 tumors. Similarly, anti-PD1 and anti-PD-L1 monotherapy showed no efficacy in this murine HCC model. In striking contrast, AFP immunization combined with anti-PD-L1 treatment triggered significant inhibition of HCC progression in most liver tumor nodules, while in combination with anti-PD1, it induced slower tumor progression. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that HCC-intrinsic PD-L1 expression was the primary target of anti-PD-L1 in this combination therapy. Notably, the combination therapy had a similar therapeutic effect in the cMet/β-catenin mouse HCC model. These findings suggest that combining the AFP vaccine and immune checkpoint inhibitors may be effective for AFP (+) HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinjun Lu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Deng
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jiejie Xu
- Department of Hearing and Speech Science, Guangzhou Xinhua University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Honghua Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guofei Cui
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongwei Xu
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Liver Surgery, Center of Liver Transplantation, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fapeng Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Mao
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sheng Zhong
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Thorsten Cramer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Yukai He
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang Y, Zhao Y, Li M, Hou H, Jian Z, Li W, Li P, Ma F, Liu M, Liu H, Xue H. Conversion of primary liver cancer after targeted therapy for liver cancer combined with AFP-targeted CAR T-cell therapy: a case report. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1180001. [PMID: 37256142 PMCID: PMC10225497 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1180001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) that originates in the liver is a malignant tumor with the worst prognosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of PLC. Most PLC cases are diagnosed at advanced stages mainly due to their insidious onset and rapid progression. Patients with PLC undergo surgical intervention or localized treatment, but their survival is often affected by its high relapse rate. Medical treatment is the primary option for patients with liver cancer, especially with advanced extrahepatic metastases. Molecular targeted therapy exerts an anti-tumor effect by acting on various signaling pathways involved in molecular pathogenesis; however, high drug resistance and low therapeutic responsiveness of PLC to molecular targets challenge the treatment option. In recent years, after surgical intervention, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or molecular targeted therapy, autologous cell immunotherapy has been adopted for PLC. As a typical autologous cell immunotherapy, CAR T-cell therapy uses genetically modified T cells to express tumor-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). Its targeting ability, persistent nature, and tumor-killing function result in a significant impact on the treatment of hematological tumors. However, no breakthrough has happened in the research specific to the curation of lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and other common solid tumors. In this context, a combination of molecular targeted therapy and CAR T-cell therapy was used to treat a patient with advanced HCC to achieve a partial remission(PR) and facilitate further liver transplantation.
Collapse
|
28
|
Mao L, Su S, Li J, Yu S, Gong Y, Chen C, Hu Z, Huang X. Development of Engineered CAR T Cells Targeting Tumor-Associated Glycoforms of MUC1 for the Treatment of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma. J Immunother 2023; 46:89-95. [PMID: 36883998 PMCID: PMC9988215 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0000000000000460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a common malignancy arising from the liver with limited 5-year survival. Thus, there is an urgency to explore new treatment methods. Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell therapy is a very promising cancer treatment. Though, several groups have investigated CAR T cells targeting MUC1 in solid cancer models, Tn-MUC1-targeted CAR T cells have not yet to be reported in ICC. In this study, we confirmed Tn-MUC1 as a potential therapeutic target for ICC and demonstrated that its expression level was positively correlated with the poor prognosis of ICC patients. More importantly, we successfully developed effective CAR T cells to target Tn-MUC1-positive ICC tumors and explored their antitumor activities. Our results suggest the CAR T cells could specifically eliminate Tn-MUC1-positive ICC cells, but not Tn-MUC1-negative ICC cells, in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, our study is expected to provide new therapeutic strategies and ideas for the treatment of ICC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Mao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng Su
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Songyang Yu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Gong
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Changzhou Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Hu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowu Huang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Luo YZ, Zhu H. Immunotherapy for advanced or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:405-424. [PMID: 37009314 PMCID: PMC10052663 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i3.405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and is prone to intra- and extrahepatic metastasis due to the anatomical and functional characteristics of the liver. Due to the complexity and high relapse rate associated with radical surgery or radiofrequency ablation, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly being used to treat HCC. Several immunotherapeutic agents, along with their combinations, have been clinically approved to treat advanced or recurrent HCC. This review discusses the leading ICIs in practice and those currently undergoing randomized phase 1–3 trials as monotherapy or combination therapy. Furthermore, we summarize the rapidly developing alternative strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor-engineered T cell therapy and tumor vaccines. Combination therapy is a promising potential treatment option. These immunotherapies are also summarized in this review, which provides insights into the advantages, limitations, and novel angles for future research in establishing viable and alternative therapies against HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Zhe Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Wang HQ, Fu R, Man QW, Yang G, Liu B, Bu LL. Advances in CAR-T Cell Therapy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062173. [PMID: 36983174 PMCID: PMC10052000 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Surgery with the assistance of conventional radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy is the basis for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treatment. However, with these treatment modalities, the recurrence and metastasis of tumors remain at a high level. Increasingly, the evidence indicates an excellent anti-tumor effect of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells in hematological malignancy treatment, and this novel immunotherapy has attracted researchers’ attention in HNSCC treatment. Although several clinical trials have been conducted, the weak anti-tumor effect and the side effects of CAR-T cell therapy against HNSCC are barriers to clinical translation. The limited choices of targeting proteins, the barriers of CAR-T cell infiltration into targeted tumors and short survival time in vivo should be solved. In this review, we introduce barriers of CAR-T cell therapy in HNSCC. The limitations and current promising strategies to overcome barriers in solid tumors, as well as the applications for HNSCC treatment, are covered. The perspectives of CAR-T cell therapy in future HNSCC treatment are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han-Qi Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Ruxing Fu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 92093, USA
| | - Qi-Wen Man
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Bing Liu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (L.-L.B.)
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (L.-L.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Chen J, Niu C, Yang N, Liu C, Zou SS, Zhu S. Biomarker discovery and application-An opportunity to resolve the challenge of liver cancer diagnosis and treatment. Pharmacol Res 2023; 189:106674. [PMID: 36702425 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies, with severe morbidity and mortality. While considerable progress has been made in liver cancer treatment, the 5-year overall survival (OS) of patients has not improved significantly. Reasons include the inadequate capability of early screening and diagnosis, a high incidence of recurrence and metastasis, a high degree of tumor heterogeneity, and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the identification and validation of specific and robust liver cancer biomarkers are of major importance for early screening, timely diagnosis, accurate prognosis, and the prevention of tumor progression. In this review, we highlight some of the latest research progress and potential applications of liver cancer biomarkers, describing hotspots and prospective directions in biomarker discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingtao Chen
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Chao Niu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Shan-Shan Zou
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Shan Zhu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gao YY, Yang WC, Ashby CR, Hao GF. Mapping cryptic binding sites of drug targets to overcome drug resistance. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 67:100934. [PMID: 36736042 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of drug resistance is a primary obstacle for successful chemotherapy. Drugs that target cryptic binding sites (CBSs) represent a novel strategy for overcoming drug resistance. In this short communication, we explain and discuss how the discovery of CBSs and their inhibitors can overcome drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Yang Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for Research and Development of Fine Chemicals, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China
| | - Wei-Cheng Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for Research and Development of Fine Chemicals, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China
| | - Charles R Ashby
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ge-Fei Hao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for Research and Development of Fine Chemicals, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China; Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mandlik DS, Mandlik SK, Choudhary HB. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Current status and future perspectives. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:1054-1075. [PMID: 36844141 PMCID: PMC9950866 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i6.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the world’s deadliest and fastest-growing tumors, with a poor prognosis. HCC develops in the context of chronic liver disease. Curative resection, surgery (liver transplantation), trans-arterial chemoembolization, radioembolization, radiofrequency ablation and chemotherapy are common treatment options for HCC, however, they will only assist a limited percentage of patients. Current treatments for advanced HCC are ineffective and aggravate the underlying liver condition. Despite promising preclinical and early-phase clinical trials for some drugs, existing systemic therapeutic methods for advanced tumor stages remain limited, underlining an unmet clinical need. In current years, cancer immunotherapy has made significant progress, opening up new treatment options for HCC. HCC, on the other hand, has a variety of causes and can affects the body’s immune system via a variety of mechanisms. With the speedy advancement of synthetic biology and genetic engineering, a range of innovative immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors [anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4, and anti-PD ligand 1 cell death antibodies], therapeutic cancer vaccines, engineered cytokines, and adoptive cell therapy have all been used for the treatment of advanced HCC. In this review, we summarize the present clinical and preclinical landscape of immunotherapies in HCC, critically discuss recent clinical trial outcomes, and address future perspectives in the field of liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa S Mandlik
- Department of Pharmacology, BVDU, Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Satish K Mandlik
- Department of Pharmaceutics, BVDU, Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Heena B Choudhary
- Department of Pharmacology, BVDU, Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Głowska-Ciemny J, Szymański M, Kuszerska A, Malewski Z, von Kaisenberg C, Kocyłowski R. The Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) in Contemporary Oncology: The Path from a Diagnostic Biomarker to an Anticancer Drug. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032539. [PMID: 36768863 PMCID: PMC9917199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This article presents contemporary opinion on the role of alpha-fetoprotein in oncologic diagnostics and treatment. This role stretches far beyond the already known one-that of the biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma. The turn of the 20th and 21st centuries saw a significant increase in knowledge about the fundamental role of AFP in the neoplastic processes, and in the induction of features of malignance and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma. The impact of AFP on the creation of an immunosuppressive environment for the developing tumor was identified, giving rise to attempts at immunotherapy. The paper presents current and prospective therapies using AFP and its derivatives and the gene therapy options. We directed our attention to both the benefits and risks associated with the use of AFP in oncologic therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Głowska-Ciemny
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (R.K.)
| | - Marcin Szymański
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Kuszerska
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
| | - Zbyszko Malewski
- Department of Perinatology and Gynecology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland
| | - Constantin von Kaisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rafał Kocyłowski
- PreMediCare New Med Medical Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (R.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Yang Z, Wu Z, Santich BH, Liu J, Liu C, Cheung NKV. Targeting Intracellular Antigens with pMHC-Binding Antibodies: A Phage Display Approach. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2702:327-345. [PMID: 37679628 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3381-6_17] [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: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Antibodies that bind peptide-MHC (pMHC) complex in a manner akin to T cell receptor (TCR) have not only helped in understanding the mechanism of TCR-pMHC interactions in the context of T cell biology but also spurred considerable interest in recent years as potential cancer therapeutics. Traditional methods to generate such antibodies using hybridoma and B cell sorting technologies are sometimes inadequate, possibly due to the small contribution of peptide to the overall B cell epitope space on the surface of the pMHC complex (typical peptide MW = 1 kDa versus MHC MW = 45 kDa) and to the multiple efficiency limiting steps inherent in these methods. In this chapter we describe phage display approaches, including a cell panning strategy, for the rapid generation of such antibodies with high specificity and affinity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhihao Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian H Santich
- Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Cheng Liu
- Eureka Therapeutics, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Nai-Kong V Cheung
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Li X, Sun X, Wang B, Li Y, Tong J. Oncolytic virus-based hepatocellular carcinoma treatment: Current status, intravenous delivery strategies, and emerging combination therapeutic solutions. Asian J Pharm Sci 2023; 18:100771. [PMID: 36896445 PMCID: PMC9989663 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2022.100771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Current treatments for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have limited success in improving patients' quality of life and prolonging life expectancy. The clinical need for more efficient and safe therapies has contributed to the exploration of emerging strategies. Recently, there has been increased interest in oncolytic viruses (OVs) as a therapeutic modality for HCC. OVs undergo selective replication in cancerous tissues and kill tumor cells. Strikingly, pexastimogene devacirepvec (Pexa-Vec) was granted an orphan drug status in HCC by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013. Meanwhile, dozens of OVs are being tested in HCC-directed clinical and preclinical trials. In this review, the pathogenesis and current therapies of HCC are outlined. Next, we summarize multiple OVs as single therapeutic agents for the treatment of HCC, which have demonstrated certain efficacy and low toxicity. Emerging carrier cell-, bioengineered cell mimetic- or nonbiological vehicle-mediated OV intravenous delivery systems in HCC therapy are described. In addition, we highlight the combination treatments between oncolytic virotherapy and other modalities. Finally, the clinical challenges and prospects of OV-based biotherapy are discussed, with the aim of continuing to develop a fascinating approach in HCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinguo Li
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Xiaonan Sun
- The 4th People's Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang 110031, China
| | - Bingyuan Wang
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Yiling Li
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Jing Tong
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Khanam A, Kottilil S. New Therapeutics for HCC: Does Tumor Immune Microenvironment Matter? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010437. [PMID: 36613878 PMCID: PMC9820509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010437] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver cancer is continuously rising where hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common form of liver cancer accounting for approximately 80-90% of the cases. HCC is strongly prejudiced by the tumor microenvironment and being an inflammation-associated condition, the contribution of various immune mechanisms is critical in its development, progression, and metastasis. The tumor immune microenvironment is initially inflammatory which is subsequently replenished by the immunosuppressive cells contributing to tumor immune escape. Regardless of substantial advancement in systemic therapy, HCC has poor prognosis and outcomes attributed to the drug resistance, recurrence, and its metastatic behavior. Therefore, currently, new immunotherapeutic strategies are extensively targeted in preclinical and clinical settings in order to elicit robust HCC-specific immune responses and appear to be quite effective, extending current treatment alternatives. Understanding the complex interplay between the tumor and the immune cells and its microenvironment will provide new insights into designing novel immunotherapeutics to overcome existing treatment hurdles. In this review, we have provided a recent update on immunological mechanisms associated with HCC and discussed potential advancement in immunotherapies for HCC treatment.
Collapse
|
38
|
Arman I, Haus-Cohen M, Reiter Y. The Intracellular Proteome as a Source for Novel Targets in CAR-T and T-Cell Engagers-Based Immunotherapy. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010027. [PMID: 36611821 PMCID: PMC9818436 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010027] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The impressive clinical success of cancer immunotherapy has motivated the continued search for new targets that may serve to guide potent effector functions in an attempt to efficiently kill malignant cells. The intracellular proteome is an interesting source for such new targets, such as neo-antigens and others, with growing interest in their application for cell-based immunotherapies. These intracellular-derived targets are peptides presented by MHC class I molecules on the cell surface of malignant cells. These disease-specific class I HLA-peptide complexes can be targeted by specific TCRs or by antibodies that mimic TCR-specificity, termed TCR-like (TCRL) antibodies. Adoptive cell transfer of TCR engineered T cells and T-cell-receptor-like based CAR-T cells, targeted against a peptide-MHC of interest, are currently tested as cancer therapeutic agents in pre-clinical and clinical trials, along with soluble TCR- and TCRL-based agents, such as immunotoxins and bi-specific T cell engagers. Targeting the intracellular proteome using TCRL- and TCR-based molecules shows promising results in cancer immunotherapy, as exemplified by the success of the anti-gp100/HLA-A2 TCR-based T cell engager, recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic uveal melanoma. This review is focused on the selection and isolation processes of TCR- and TCRL-based targeting moieties, with a spotlight on pre-clinical and clinical studies, examining peptide-MHC targeting agents in cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
39
|
Teppert K, Wang X, Anders K, Evaristo C, Lock D, Künkele A. Joining Forces for Cancer Treatment: From "TCR versus CAR" to "TCR and CAR". Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:14563. [PMID: 36498890 PMCID: PMC9739809 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell-based immunotherapy has demonstrated great therapeutic potential in recent decades, on the one hand, by using tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and, on the other hand, by engineering T cells to obtain anti-tumor specificities through the introduction of either engineered T cell receptors (TCRs) or chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). Given the distinct design of both receptors and the type of antigen that is encountered, the requirements for proper antigen engagement and downstream signal transduction by TCRs and CARs differ. Synapse formation and signal transduction of CAR T cells, despite further refinement of CAR T cell designs, still do not fully recapitulate that of TCR T cells and might limit CAR T cell persistence and functionality. Thus, deep knowledge about the molecular differences in CAR and TCR T cell signaling would greatly advance the further optimization of CAR designs and elucidate under which circumstances a combination of both receptors would improve the functionality of T cells for cancer treatment. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review about similarities and differences by directly comparing the architecture, synapse formation and signaling of TCRs and CARs, highlighting the knowns and unknowns. In the second part of the review, we discuss the current status of combining CAR and TCR technologies, encouraging a change in perspective from "TCR versus CAR" to "TCR and CAR".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Teppert
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Xueting Wang
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Kathleen Anders
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 10117 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - César Evaristo
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Dominik Lock
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Annette Künkele
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 10117 Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Ruff SM, Shannon AH, Beane JD, Pawlik TM. Highlighting novel targets in immunotherapy for liver cancer. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:1029-1041. [PMID: 36404729 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2150841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alterations to the hepatic immune microenvironment can play a key role in the development and progression of cancer. This is especially true in the liver due to its evolutionarily conserved immunotolerant state. The presence of chronic inflammation can facilitate the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by disrupting the hepatic immune microenvironment. Recently, the addition of the immunotherapy atezolizumab (PD-L1 inhibitor) with bevacizumab (VEGF inhibitor) became the recommended first-line systemic treatment for advanced HCC. AREAS COVERED Given recent updates to the guidelines and emerging data on immunotherapy, we herein provide an overview of currently available and novel immunotherapy approaches for the treatment of HCC, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapy, and vaccine development. This review performed an extensive literature search to investigate benchwork, clinical research, and clinical trials that evaluate current immunotherapy and establish new targets. Literature was focused on the most up-to-date research and included ongoing clinical trials to better evaluate the obstacles and future direction of the field. EXPERT OPINION Given the heterogeneity of HCC tumors, improvement in outcomes will likely come from targeting multiple immune mechanisms. Continued research and clinical trials of combination immunotherapies are necessary to move the field forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Ruff
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alexander H Shannon
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joal D Beane
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zhai Y, He K, Huang L, Shang X, Wang G, Yuan G, Han ZG. DLK1-directed chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2022; 42:2524-2537. [PMID: 36002393 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delta-like homologue 1 (DLK1), a transmembrane protein, is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We explored whether DLK1-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells can specifically eliminate DLK1-positive HCC cells and serve as a therapeutic strategy for HCC immunotherapy. METHODS We first characterized a homemade anti-human DLK1 monoclonal antibody, sequenced the single-chain Fragment variable (scFv) and integrated it into the second-generation CAR lentiviral vector, and then developed the DLK1-directed CAR-T cells. The cytotoxic activities of DLK1-directed CAR-T cells against different HCC cells were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS The genetically modified human T cells with the DLK1-directed CARs produced cytotoxic activity against DLK1-positive HCC cells. Additionally, the DLK1-directed CARs enhanced T cell proliferation and activation in a DLK1-dependent manner. Interestingly, the DLK1-targeted CAR-T cells significantly inhibited both subcutaneous and peritoneal xenograft tumours derived from human liver cancer cell lines HepG2 or Huh-7. CONCLUSION DLK1-directed CAR-T cells specifically suppresses DLK1-positive HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. This study provides a novel transmembrane antigen DLK1 as a potential therapeutic target appropriate for CAR-T cell therapy, which may be further developed as a clinical therapeutic strategy for HCC immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kunyan He
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuyang Shang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangxing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guandou Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ze-Guang Han
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gerber HP, Presta LG. TCR mimic compounds for pHLA targeting with high potency modalities in oncology. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1027548. [PMID: 36338746 PMCID: PMC9635445 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1027548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
pHLA complexes represent the largest class of cell surface markers on cancer cells, making them attractive for targeted cancer therapies. Adoptive cell therapies expressing TCRs that recognize tumor specific pHLAs take advantage of the unique selectivity and avidity of TCR: pHLA interactions. More recently, additional protein binding domains binding to pHLAs, known as TCR mimics (TCRm), were developed for tumor targeting of high potency therapeutic modalities, including bispecifics, ADCs, CAR T and -NK cells. TCRm compounds take advantage of the exquisite tumor specificity of certain pHLA targets, including cell lineage commitment markers and cancer testis antigens (CTAs). To achieve meaningful anti-tumor responses, it is critical that TCRm compounds integrate both, high target binding affinities and a high degree of target specificity. In this review, we describe the most advanced approaches to achieve both criteria, including affinity- and specificity engineering of TCRs, antibodies and alternative protein scaffolds. We also discuss the status of current TCRm based therapeutics developed in the clinic, key challenges, and emerging trends to improve treatment options for cancer patients treated with TCRm based therapeutics in Oncology.
Collapse
|
43
|
Qu C, Zhang H, Cao H, Tang L, Mo H, Liu F, Zhang L, Yi Z, Long L, Yan L, Wang Z, Zhang N, Luo P, Zhang J, Liu Z, Ye W, Liu Z, Cheng Q. Tumor buster - where will the CAR-T cell therapy 'missile' go? Mol Cancer 2022; 21:201. [PMID: 36261831 PMCID: PMC9580202 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01669-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell (CAR-T cell) therapy based on gene editing technology represents a significant breakthrough in personalized immunotherapy for human cancer. This strategy uses genetic modification to enable T cells to target tumor-specific antigens, attack specific cancer cells, and bypass tumor cell apoptosis avoidance mechanisms to some extent. This method has been extensively used to treat hematologic diseases, but the therapeutic effect in solid tumors is not ideal. Tumor antigen escape, treatment-related toxicity, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) limit their use of it. Target selection is the most critical aspect in determining the prognosis of patients receiving this treatment. This review provides a comprehensive summary of all therapeutic targets used in the clinic or shown promising potential. We summarize CAR-T cell therapies’ clinical trials, applications, research frontiers, and limitations in treating different cancers. We also explore coping strategies when encountering sub-optimal tumor-associated antigens (TAA) or TAA loss. Moreover, the importance of CAR-T cell therapy in cancer immunotherapy is emphasized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunrun Qu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, The Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lanhua Tang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haoyang Mo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fangkun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liyang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhenjie Yi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lifu Long
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Luzhe Yan
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,One-third Lab, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Weijie Ye
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhixiong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Quan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Klatt MG, Dao T, Yang Z, Liu J, Mun SS, Dacek MM, Luo H, Gardner TJ, Bourne C, Peraro L, Aretz ZEH, Korontsvit T, Lau M, Kharas MG, Liu C, Scheinberg DA. A TCR mimic CAR T cell specific for NDC80 is broadly reactive with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Blood 2022; 140:861-874. [PMID: 35427421 PMCID: PMC9412008 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021012882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Target identification for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies remains challenging due to the limited repertoire of tumor-specific surface proteins. Intracellular proteins presented in the context of cell surface HLA provide a wide pool of potential antigens targetable through T-cell receptor mimic antibodies. Mass spectrometry (MS) of HLA ligands from 8 hematologic and nonhematologic cancer cell lines identified a shared, non-immunogenic, HLA-A*02-restricted ligand (ALNEQIARL) derived from the kinetochore-associated NDC80 gene. CAR T cells directed against the ALNEQIARL:HLA-A*02 complex exhibited high sensitivity and specificity for recognition and killing of multiple cancer types, especially those of hematologic origin, and were efficacious in mouse models against a human leukemia and a solid tumor. In contrast, no toxicities toward resting or activated healthy leukocytes as well as hematopoietic stem cells were observed. This shows how MS can inform the design of broadly reactive therapeutic T-cell receptor mimic CAR T-cell therapies that can target multiple cancer types currently not druggable by small molecules, conventional CAR T cells, T cells, or antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin G Klatt
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Tao Dao
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Sung Soo Mun
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Megan M Dacek
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Hanzhi Luo
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Thomas J Gardner
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Christopher Bourne
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program and
| | - Leila Peraro
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Zita E H Aretz
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
- Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Tanya Korontsvit
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | - Michael Lau
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; and
| | - Michael G Kharas
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
| | | | - David A Scheinberg
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Guizhen Z, Guanchang J, Liwen L, Huifen W, Zhigang R, Ranran S, Zujiang Y. The tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and its targeting strategy by CAR-T cell immunotherapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:918869. [PMID: 36093115 PMCID: PMC9452721 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.918869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype of liver cancer, which ranks sixth in cancer incidence and third in mortality. Although great strides have been made in novel therapy for HCC, such as immunotherapy, the prognosis remains less than satisfactory. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) exerts a significant role in the evolution of HCC and has a non-negligible impact on the efficacy of HCC treatment. In the past two decades, the success in hematological malignancies made by chimeric antigen receptor-modified T (CAR-T) cell therapy leveraging it holds great promise for cancer treatment. However, in the face of a hostile TME in solid tumors like HCC, the efficacy of CAR-T cells will be greatly compromised. Here, we provide an overview of TME features in HCC, discuss recent advances and challenges of CAR-T immunotherapy in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Guizhen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Guanchang
- Department of Urology People’s Hospital of Puyang, Puyang, China
| | - Liu Liwen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wang Huifen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ren Zhigang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sun Ranran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Zujiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Huang B, Miao L, Liu J, Zhang J, Li Y. A promising antitumor method: Targeting CSC with immune cells modified with CAR. Front Immunol 2022; 13:937327. [PMID: 36032145 PMCID: PMC9403009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.937327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors pose a great threat to human health; as a subgroup of tumor cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to the genesis, development, metastasis, and recurrence of tumors because of their enhanced proliferation and multidirectional differentiation. Thus, a critical step in tumor treatment is to inhibit CSCs. Researchers have proposed many methods to inhibit or reduce CSCs, including monoclonal antibodies targeting specific surface molecules of CSCs, signal pathway inhibitors, and energy metabolic enzyme inhibitors and inducing differentiation therapy. Additionally, immunotherapy with immune cells engineered with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) showed favorable results. However, there are few comprehensive reviews in this area. In this review, we summarize the recent CSC targets used for CSC inhibition and the different immune effector cells (T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages) which are engineered with CAR used for CSC therapy. Finally, we list the main challenges and options in targeting CSC with CAR-based immunotherapy. The design targeting two tumor antigens (one CSC antigen and one mature common tumor antigen) should be more reasonable and practical; meanwhile, we highlight the potential of CAR-NK in tumor treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Binjie Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lele Miao
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yumin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yumin Li,
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Liu C, Liu H, Dasgupta M, Hellman LM, Zhang X, Qu K, Xue H, Wang Y, Fan F, Chang Q, Yu D, Ge L, Zhang Y, Cui Z, Zhang P, Heller B, Zhang H, Shi B, Baker BM, Liu C. Validation and promise of a TCR mimic antibody for cancer immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12068. [PMID: 35840635 PMCID: PMC9287321 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15946-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies are at the vanguard of the most promising cancer treatments. Whereas traditional therapeutic antibodies have been limited to extracellular antigens, T cell receptor mimic (TCRm) antibodies can target intracellular antigens presented by cell surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins. TCRm antibodies can therefore target a repertoire of otherwise undruggable cancer antigens. However, the consequences of off-target peptide/MHC recognition with engineered T cell therapies are severe, and thus there are significant safety concerns with TCRm antibodies. Here we explored the specificity and safety profile of a new TCRm-based T cell therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a solid tumor for which no effective treatment exists. We targeted an alpha-fetoprotein peptide presented by HLA-A*02 with a highly specific TCRm, which crystallographic structural analysis showed binds directly over the HLA protein and interfaces with the full length of the peptide. We fused the TCRm to the γ and δ subunits of a TCR, producing a signaling AbTCR construct. This was combined with an scFv/CD28 co-stimulatory molecule targeting glypican-3 for increased efficacy towards tumor cells. This AbTCR + co-stimulatory T cell therapy showed potent activity against AFP-positive cancer cell lines in vitro and an in an in vivo model and undetectable activity against AFP-negative cells. In an in-human safety assessment, no significant adverse events or cytokine release syndrome were observed and evidence of efficacy was seen. Remarkably, one patient with metastatic HCC achieved a complete remission after nine months and ultimately qualified for a liver transplant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Moumita Dasgupta
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and the Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, 251 Nieuwland Science Hall, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Lance M Hellman
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and the Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, 251 Nieuwland Science Hall, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Xiaogang Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Kai Qu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hui Xue
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yun Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fenling Fan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qi Chang
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Duo Yu
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Linhu Ge
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Ziyou Cui
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Pengbo Zhang
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Bradley Heller
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Hongbing Zhang
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Bingyin Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Brian M Baker
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and the Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, 251 Nieuwland Science Hall, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
| | - Cheng Liu
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., 5858 Horton Street, Suite 170, Emeryville, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Zhao Z, Zheng Z, Huang J, Wang J, Peng T, Lin Y, Jian Z. Expression of ALG3 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Clinical Implication. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:816102. [PMID: 35782861 PMCID: PMC9240429 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.816102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent studies have shown that alpha-1,3-mannosyltransferase (ALG3) promoted tumorigenesis and progression in multiple cancer types. Our study planned to explore the clinical implication and potential function of ALG3 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Materials and Methods: Data from public databases were used to analyze the ALG3 expression and its impact on the clinical significance of patients with HCC. The ALG3 expression was confirmed by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry was used to confirm the ALG3 expression and explore its clinical implication in HCC. KEGG, GO, and GSEA enrichment analyses were utilized to explore the biological pathways related to ALG3 in HCC. TIMER2.0 was applied to assess the association between ALG3 and immune infiltration. CCK8, MTT, and transwell assays were used to investigate the role of ALG3 downregulation in HCC cell lines. Results: qRT-PCR, WB, and IHC proved ALG3 was highly overexpressed in HCC tissues. The Kaplan–Meier analysis verified the overexpression of ALG3 was related to poor overall survival (p < 0.001). Multivariate cox regression analysis showed that the high ALG3 expression was an independent risk prognostic factor. GSEA and TIMER2.0 predicted that ALG3 participates in cell differentiation and cycle and correlates with immune cell infiltration. Transwell assay results showed that ALG3 silencing also impaired the invasion ability of HCC cells. Conclusion: ALG3 was overexpressed and considered a potential indicator of survival in HCC, and our findings provided a novel therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zhao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehao Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Shantou University of Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jianfeng Huang
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianxi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianyi Peng
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Shantou University of Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ye Lin, ; Zhixiang Jian,
| | - Zhixiang Jian
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ye Lin, ; Zhixiang Jian,
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Jiang Z, Cheng L, Wu Z, Zhou L, Wang H, Hong Q, Wu Q, Long Y, Huang Y, Xu G, Yao Y, Tang Z, Zhang Z, Yang L, Luo W, Yang J, Gong L, Liu P, Chen X, Cui S, Zhang Q, Li Y, Li P. Transforming primary human hepatocytes into hepatocellular carcinoma with genetically defined factors. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54275. [PMID: 35437924 PMCID: PMC9171684 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202154275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and progression has been hampered by the lack of in vivo models. We performed a genetic screen of 10 oncogenes and genetic mutations in Fah-ablated immunodeficient mice in which primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) are used to reconstitute a functional human liver. We identified that MYC, TP53R249S , and KRASG12D are highly expressed in induced HCC (iHCC) samples. The overexpression of MYC and TP53R249S transform PHHs into iHCC in situ, though the addition of KRASG12D significantly increases the tumorigenic efficiency. iHCC, which recapitulate the histological architecture and gene expression characteristics of clinical HCC samples, reconstituted HCC after serial transplantations. Transcriptomic analysis of iHCC and PHHs showed that MUC1 and FAP are expressed in iHCC but not in normal livers. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells against these two surface markers efficiently lyse iHCC cells. The properties of iHCC model provide a biological basis for several clinical hallmarks of HCC, and iHCC may serve as a model to study HCC initiation and to identify diagnostic biomarkers and targets for cellular immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwu Jiang
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Lin Cheng
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory) Guangzhou China
| | - Zhiping Wu
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Linfu Zhou
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Cancer Center Faculty of Health Sciences University of Macau Macau China
| | - Qilan Hong
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory) Guangzhou China
| | - Qiting Wu
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Youguo Long
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Yunlin Huang
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Gaoqi Xu
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory) Guangzhou China
| | - Yao Yao
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | | | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Nutrition Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food School of Public Health Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
| | - Wei Luo
- Clinical Research Institute The First People's Hospital of Foshan Foshan Guangdong China
| | - Jie Yang
- Guangdong Women and Children Hospital Panyu, Guangzhou China
| | - Likun Gong
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhang Jiang Hi‐Tech Park Shanghai China
| | - Pentao Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Stem Cell, and Regenerative Medicine Consortium Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Hong Kong China
| | - Xinwen Chen
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Shuzhong Cui
- Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
| | - Yinxiong Li
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
| | - Peng Li
- China‐New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Regeneration and Biological Therapies, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory) Guangzhou China
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation Chinese Academy of Sciences Hong Kong China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Pham L, Kyritsi K, Zhou T, Ceci L, Baiocchi L, Kennedy L, Chakraborty S, Glaser S, Francis H, Alpini G, Sato K. The Functional Roles of Immune Cells in Primary Liver Cancer. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:826-836. [PMID: 35337836 PMCID: PMC9194651 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer includes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Incidence of liver cancer has been increasing in recent years, and the 5-year survival is <20%. HCC and CCA are often accompanied with a dense stroma coupled with infiltrated immune cells, which is referred to as the tumor microenvironment. Populations of specific immune cells, such as high density of CD163+ macrophages and low density of CD8+ T cells, are associated with prognosis and survival rates in both HCC and CCA. Immune cells in the tumor microenvironment can be a therapeutic target for liver cancer treatments. Previous studies have introduced immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors, pulsed dendritic cells, or transduced T cells, to enhance cytotoxicity of immune cells and inhibit tumor growth. This review summarizes current understanding of the roles of immune cells in primary liver cancer covering HCC and CCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linh Pham
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Department of Science and Mathematics, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Killeen, Texas
| | - Konstantina Kyritsi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Ludovica Ceci
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Leonardo Baiocchi
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Department of Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
| | - Heather Francis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Department of Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Department of Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
| |
Collapse
|