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Krsek A, Baticic L, Sotosek V, Braut T. The Role of Biomarkers in HPV-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Towards Precision Medicine. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1448. [PMID: 39001338 PMCID: PMC11241541 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14131448] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) represents a significant global health challenge, with squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) accounting for approximately 90% of all HNC cases. These malignancies, collectively referred to as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), originate from the mucosal epithelium lining the larynx, pharynx, and oral cavity. The primary risk factors associated with HNSCC in economically disadvantaged nations have been chronic alcohol consumption and tobacco use. However, in more affluent countries, the landscape of HNSCC has shifted with the identification of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16, as a major risk factor, especially among nonsmokers. Understanding the evolving risk factors and the distinct biological behaviors of HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC is critical for developing targeted treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes in this complex and diverse group of cancers. Accurate diagnosis of HPV-positive HNSCC is essential for developing a comprehensive model that integrates the molecular characteristics, immune microenvironment, and clinical outcomes. The aim of this comprehensive review was to summarize the current knowledge and advances in the identification of DNA, RNA, and protein biomarkers in bodily fluids and tissues that have introduced new possibilities for minimally or non-invasive cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and assessment of therapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antea Krsek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| | - Lara Baticic
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Vlatka Sotosek
- Department of Clinical Medical Sciences I, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
- Department of Anesthesiology, Reanimatology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tamara Braut
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
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Cha J, Kim DH, Kim G, Cho JW, Sung E, Baek S, Hong MH, Kim CG, Sim NS, Hong HJ, Lee JE, Hemberg M, Park S, Yoon SO, Ha SJ, Koh YW, Kim HR, Lee I. Single-cell analysis reveals cellular and molecular factors counteracting HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer immunotherapy outcomes. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008667. [PMID: 38857913 PMCID: PMC11168198 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008667] [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] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) induced by human papillomavirus (HPV-positive) is associated with better clinical outcomes than HPV-negative OPSCC. However, the clinical benefits of immunotherapy in patients with HPV-positive OPSCC remain unclear. METHODS To identify the cellular and molecular factors that limited the benefits associated with HPV in OPSCC immunotherapy, we performed single-cell RNA (n=20) and T-cell receptor sequencing (n=10) analyses of tonsil or base of tongue tumor biopsies prior to immunotherapy. Primary findings from our single-cell analysis were confirmed through immunofluorescence experiments, and secondary validation analysis were performed via publicly available transcriptomics data sets. RESULTS We found significantly higher transcriptional diversity of malignant cells among non-responders to immunotherapy, regardless of HPV infection status. We also observed a significantly larger proportion of CD4+ follicular helper T cells (Tfh) in HPV-positive tumors, potentially due to enhanced Tfh differentiation. Most importantly, CD8+ resident memory T cells (Trm) with elevated KLRB1 (encoding CD161) expression showed an association with dampened antitumor activity in patients with HPV-positive OPSCC, which may explain their heterogeneous clinical outcomes. Notably, all HPV-positive patients, whose Trm presented elevated KLRB1 levels, showed low expression of CLEC2D (encoding the CD161 ligand) in B cells, which may reduce tertiary lymphoid structure activity. Immunofluorescence of HPV-positive tumors treated with immune checkpoint blockade showed an inverse correlation between the density of CD161+ Trm and changes in tumor size. CONCLUSIONS We found that CD161+ Trm counteracts clinical benefits associated with HPV in OPSCC immunotherapy. This suggests that targeted inhibition of CD161 in Trm could enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy in HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03737968.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junha Cha
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Hee Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gamin Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Won Cho
- The Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Euijeong Sung
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungbyn Baek
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Hee Hong
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Gon Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Suk Sim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Hong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Eun Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Martin Hemberg
- The Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seyeon Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Ock Yoon
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Jun Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Woo Koh
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Ryun Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Insuk Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- POSTECH Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
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Lo Cigno I, Calati F, Girone C, Catozzo M, Gariglio M. High-risk HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7 and their interplay with the innate immune response: Uncovering mechanisms of immune evasion and therapeutic prospects. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29685. [PMID: 38783790 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29685] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) tumor viruses causally associated with 5% of human cancers, comprising both anogenital and upper aerodigestive tract carcinomas. Despite the availability of prophylactic vaccines, HPVs continue to pose a significant global health challenge, primarily due to inadequate vaccine access and coverage. These viruses can establish persistent infections by evading both the intrinsic defenses of infected tissues and the extrinsic defenses provided by professional innate immune cells. Crucial for their evasion strategies is their unique intraepithelial life cycle, which effectively shields them from host detection. Thus, strategies aimed at reactivating the innate immune response within infected or transformed epithelial cells, particularly through the production of type I interferons (IFNs) and lymphocyte-recruiting chemokines, are considered viable solutions to counteract the adverse effects of persistent infections by these oncogenic viruses. This review focuses on the complex interplay between the high-risk HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7 and the innate immune response in epithelial cells and HPV-associated cancers. In particular, it details the molecular mechanisms by which E6 and E7 modulate the innate immune response, highlighting significant progress in our comprehension of these processes. It also examines forward-looking strategies that exploit the innate immune system to ameliorate existing anticancer therapies, thereby providing crucial insights into future therapeutic developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Lo Cigno
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Calati
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Carlo Girone
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Marta Catozzo
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Marisa Gariglio
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
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Tran NH, Sais D, Tran N. Advances in human papillomavirus detection and molecular understanding in head and neck cancers: Implications for clinical management. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29746. [PMID: 38884391 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29746] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs), primarily head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), are associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR HPV), notably HPV16 and HPV18. HPV status guides treatment and predicts outcomes, with distinct molecular pathways in HPV-driven HNSCC influencing survival rates. HNC incidence is rising globally, with regional variations reflecting diverse risk factors, including tobacco, alcohol, and HPV infection. Oropharyngeal cancers attributed to HPV have significantly increased, particularly in regions like the United States. The HPV16 genome, characterized by oncoproteins E6 and E7, disrupts crucial cell cycle regulators, including tumor protein p53 (TP53) and retinoblastoma (Rb), contributing to HNSCC pathogenesis. P16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a reliable surrogate marker for HPV16 positivity, while in situ hybridization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, notably reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), offer sensitive HPV detection. Liquid-based RT-qPCR, especially in saliva, shows promise for noninvasive HPV detection, offering simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and patient compliance. These molecular advancements enhance diagnostic accuracy, guide treatment decisions, and improve patient outcomes in HNC management. In conclusion, advances in HPV detection and molecular understanding have significant clinical management implications. Integrating these advancements into routine practice could ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc Ha Tran
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dayna Sais
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nham Tran
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Proulx-Rocray F, Soulières D. Emerging monoclonal antibody therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2024; 29:165-176. [PMID: 38616696 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2024.2339906] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is increasing, particularly among younger populations. It is projected that the number of new cases will increase by almost 50% by 2040, with market revenues expected to triple in the same period. Despite the recent introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) into the therapeutic armamentarium, the vast majority of patients with recurrent and/or metastatic (R/M) HNSCC fail to derive durable benefits from systemic therapy. AREAS COVERED This article aims to review the multiple monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) regimens currently under development, targeting various growth factors, immune checkpoints, immune costimulatory receptors, and more. EXPERT OPINION So far, the combination of anti-EGFR and ICI appears to be the most promising, especially in HPV-negative patients. It will be interesting to confirm whether the arrival of antibody-drug conjugates and bispecific mAb can surpass the efficacy of anti-EGFR, as they are also being tested in combination with ICI. Furthermore, we believe that immune costimulatory agonists and various ICIs combination are worth monitoring, despite some initial setbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Proulx-Rocray
- Hematology and Medical Oncology Department, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Denis Soulières
- Hematology and Medical Oncology Department, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
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Zhang L, Yu L. The role of the microscopic world: Exploring the role and potential of intratumoral microbiota in cancer immunotherapy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38078. [PMID: 38758914 PMCID: PMC11098217 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, coexist in the human body, forming a symbiotic microbiota that plays a vital role in human health and disease. Intratumoral microbial components have been discovered in various tumor tissues and are closely linked to the occurrence, progression, and treatment results of cancer. The intratumoral microbiota can enhance antitumor immunity through mechanisms such as activating the stimulator of interferon genes signaling pathway, stimulating T and NK cells, promoting the formation of TLS, and facilitating antigen presentation. Conversely, the intratumoral microbiota might suppress antitumor immune responses by increasing reactive oxygen species levels, creating an anti-inflammatory environment, inducing T cell inactivation, and enhancing immune suppression, thereby promoting cancer progression. The impact of intratumoral microbiota on antitumor immunity varies based on microbial composition, interactions with cancer cells, and the cancer's current state. A deep understanding of the complex interactions between intratumoral microbiota and antitumor immunity holds the potential to bring new therapeutic strategies and targets to cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiang Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Weifang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang City, Shandong Province, China
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Raguz J, Pinto C, Pölzlbauer T, Habbeddine M, Rosskopf S, Strauß J, Just V, Schmidt S, Bidet Huang K, Stemeseder F, Schippers T, Stewart E, Jez J, Berraondo P, Orlinger KK, Lauterbach H. Preclinical evaluation of two phylogenetically distant arenavirus vectors for the development of novel immunotherapeutic combination strategies for cancer treatment. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008286. [PMID: 38631709 PMCID: PMC11029282 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008286] [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] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engineered arenavirus vectors have recently been developed to leverage the body's immune system in the fight against chronic viral infections and cancer. Vectors based on Pichinde virus (artPICV) and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (artLCMV) encoding a non-oncogenic fusion protein of human papillomavirus (HPV)16 E6 and E7 are currently being tested in patients with HPV16+ cancer, showing a favorable safety and tolerability profile and unprecedented expansion of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. Although the strong antigen-specific immune response elicited by artLCMV vectors has been demonstrated in several preclinical models, PICV-based vectors are much less characterized. METHODS To advance our understanding of the immunobiology of these two vectors, we analyzed and compared their individual properties in preclinical in vivo and in vitro systems. Immunogenicity and antitumor effect of intratumoral or intravenous administration of both vectors, as well as combination with NKG2A blockade, were evaluated in naïve or TC-1 mouse tumor models. Flow cytometry, Nanostring, and histology analysis were performed to characterize the tumor microenvironment (TME) and T-cell infiltrate following treatment. RESULTS Despite being phylogenetically distant, both vectors shared many properties, including preferential infection and activation of professional antigen-presenting cells, and induction of potent tumor-specific CD8+ T-cell responses. Systemic as well as localized treatment induced a proinflammatory shift in the TME, promoting the infiltration of inducible T cell costimulator (ICOS)+CD8+ T cells capable of mediating tumor regression and prolonging survival in a TC-1 mouse tumor model. Still, there was evidence of immunosuppression built-up over time, and increased expression of H2-T23 (ligand for NKG2A T cell inhibitory receptor) following treatment was identified as a potential contributing factor. NKG2A blockade improved the antitumor efficacy of artARENA vectors, suggesting a promising new combination approach. This demonstrates how detailed characterization of arenavirus vector-induced immune responses and TME modulation can inform novel combination therapies. CONCLUSIONS The artARENA platform represents a strong therapeutic vaccine approach for the treatment of cancer. The induced antitumor immune response builds the backbone for novel combination therapies, which warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ethan Stewart
- Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities GmbH (VBCF), Vienna, Austria
| | - Jakub Jez
- Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities GmbH (VBCF), Vienna, Austria
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
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Baudouin R, Hans S, Lisan Q, Morin B, Adimi Y, Martin J, Lechien JR, Tartour E, Badoual C. Prognostic Significance of the Microenvironment in Human Papillomavirus Oropharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review. Laryngoscope 2024; 134:1507-1516. [PMID: 37642393 DOI: 10.1002/lary.31010] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The immune microenvironment of HPV-associated (HPV+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs) (HPV+OPSCCs) differs from that of HPV-independent oropharyngeal cancers (HPV-independent OPSCCs). The literature on the subject is very abundant, demanding an organized synthesis of this wealth of information to evaluate the hypothesis associating the favorable prognosis of HPV+OPSCC patients with a different immune microenvironment. A systematic review of the literature was conducted regarding the microenvironment of HPV+OPSCCs. DATA SOURCE MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. REVIEW METHODS A literature search was performed following PRISMA guidelines (Moher D. PLoS Med. 2009). The PEO (Population, Exposure, and Outcome) framework is detailed as follows: P: patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas, E: human papillomavirus (HPV), and O: histological and immunological composition of the tumoral microenvironment (TME). No meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS From 1,202 studies that were screened, 58 studies were included (n = 6,474 patients; n = 3,581 (55%) HPV+OPSCCs and n = 2,861(45%) HPV-independent OPSCCs). The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), CD3+ in 1,733 patients, CD4+ in 520 patients, and CD8+ (cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL)) in 3,104 patients, and high levels of PD-L1 expression in 1,222 patients is strongly correlated with an improved clinical outcome in HPV+OPSCCs. CONCLUSION This systematic review provides the most comprehensive information on the immune microenvironment of HPV+OPSCCs to date. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and PD-L1 expression are associated with a favorable prognosis. B, CD8+ and resident memory cells densities are higher in HPV+OPSCCs. The importance of myeloid lineages is still a matter of debate and research. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 134:1507-1516, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Baudouin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - S Hans
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - Q Lisan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - B Morin
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
- Department of Biological Immunology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
| | - Y Adimi
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
- Department of Biological Immunology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
| | - J Martin
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
- Department of Biological Immunology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
| | - J R Lechien
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
| | - E Tartour
- Department of Biological Immunology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
| | - C Badoual
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
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Chen Q, Chen J, Lu Z, Nian R, Li W, Yao Z, Mou S, Liu Y, Cao X, He W, Zhu C. The prognostic value of LAYN in HPV-related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and its influence on immune cell infiltration. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:57. [PMID: 38430385 PMCID: PMC10908921 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-00913-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) exhibits different characteristics from HPV-negative tumors in terms of tumor development, clinical features, treatment response, and prognosis. Layilin (LAYN), which contains homology with C-type lectins, plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, the prognostic value of LAYN and the relationship between LAYN and immune infiltration levels in HPV-related HNSCC patients still require a comprehensive understanding. Herein, we aimed to assess the prognostic value of LAYN and to investigate its underlying immunological function in HPV-related HNSCC. METHODS Through various bioinformatics methods, we analyzed the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases to explore the potential underlying oncogenic impression of LAYN, including the relevance of LAYN to survival outcomes, clinicopathological factors, immune cell infiltration, and immune marker sets in HPV-related HNSCC. The expression levels of LAYN and HPV were also verified in HNSCC patient tissues. RESULTS LAYN was differentially expressed in a variety of tumors. The expression of LAYN in HNSCC was significantly higher than that in adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.0001), and high expression of LAYN was correlated with poor overall survival (OS) in HNSCC patients (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.3, P = 0.035). Moreover, LAYN expression level in HPV-positive HNSCC patients was significantly lower than that in HPV-negative patients, with HPV-positive HNSCC patients displaying a trend of favorable prognosis. In addition, the relationship between LAYN expression and immune infiltration levels in HPV-positive HNSCC group was less tightly correlated than that in HPV-negative HNSCC group, and there was a strong relationship between LAYN expression and markers of M2 macrophage (P < 0.001) and exhausted T cells (P < 0.05) in HPV-negative HNSCC. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis suggested that LAYN potentially influenced tumor progression through HPV infection and other cancer-related pathways. CONCLUSIONS LAYN might contribute to tumorigenesis via its positive correlation with immune checkpoint molecules and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Our study might provide a novel prognostic biomarker and latent therapeutic target for the treatment of HPV-related HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjuan Chen
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Jiankang Chen
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Zuzhuang Lu
- Department of Oncology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40016, China
| | - Rui Nian
- Department of Pathology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wanjun Li
- Department of Pathology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhongqiang Yao
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shangdong Mou
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia Cao
- Department of Oncology, 3201 Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, 723000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenjing He
- Department of Oncology, Xianyang Center Hospital, Xi'an, 712000, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Chenjing Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Meng J, Tan JYT, Joseph CR, Ye J, Lim JCT, Goh D, Xue Y, Lim X, Koh VCY, Wee F, Tay TKY, Chan JY, Ng CCY, Iqbal J, Lau MC, Lim HE, Toh HC, Teh BT, Dent RA, Tan PH, Yeong JPS. The Prognostic Value of CD39 as a Marker of Tumor-Specific T Cells in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in Asian Women. J Transl Med 2024; 104:100303. [PMID: 38103870 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a poor prognosis with limited therapeutic options available for affected patients. Efforts are ongoing to identify surrogate markers for tumor-specific CD8+ T cells that can predict the response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies, such as programmed cell death protein 1 or programmed cell death ligand-1 blockade. We have previously identified tumor-specific CD39+CD8+ T cells in non-small cell lung cancer that might help predict patient responses to programmed cell death protein 1 or programmed cell death ligand-1 blockade. Based on this finding, we conducted a comparative interrogation of TNBC in an Asian cohort to evaluate the potential of CD39 as a surrogate marker of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. Using ICI-treated TNBC mouse models (n = 24), flow cytometric analyses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes revealed that >99% of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells also expressed CD39. To investigate the relationship between CD39+CD8+ T-cell density and CD39 expression with disease prognosis, we performed multiplex immunohistochemistry staining on treatment-naive human TNBC tissues (n = 315). We saw that the proportion of CD39+CD8+ T cells in human TNBC tumors correlated with improved overall survival, as did the densities of other CD39+ immune cell infiltrates, such as CD39+CD68+ macrophages. Finally, increased CD39 expression on CD8+ T cells was also found to predict the response to ICI therapy (pembrolizumab) in a separate cohort of 11 TNBC patients. These findings support the potential of CD39+CD8+ T-cell density as a prognostic factor in Asian TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Meng
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jing Ying Tira Tan
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Craig Ryan Joseph
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jiangfeng Ye
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jeffrey Chun Tatt Lim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Denise Goh
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yuezhen Xue
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xinru Lim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Valerie Cui Yun Koh
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Felicia Wee
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Timothy Kwang Yong Tay
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | | | | | - Jabed Iqbal
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Mai Chan Lau
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Hsuen Elaine Lim
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Han Chong Toh
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Bin Tean Teh
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Rebecca Alexandra Dent
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Puay Hoon Tan
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; Luma Women's Imaging Centre/Medical Centre, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Joe Poh Sheng Yeong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore; Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore; Department of Anatomical Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
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11
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Khoo A, Boyer M, Jafri Z, Makeham T, Pham T, Khachigian LM, Floros P, Dowling E, Fedder K, Shonka D, Garneau J, O'Meara CH. Human Papilloma Virus Positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and the Immune System: Pathogenesis, Immunotherapy and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2798. [PMID: 38474047 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052798] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), a subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), involves the palatine tonsils, soft palate, base of tongue, and uvula, with the ability to spread to adjacent subsites. Personalized treatment strategies for Human Papillomavirus-associated squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (HPV+OPSCC) are yet to be established. In this article, we summarise our current understanding of the pathogenesis of HPV+OPSCC, the intrinsic role of the immune system, current ICI clinical trials, and the potential role of small molecule immunotherapy in HPV+OPSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khoo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - M Boyer
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Z Jafri
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - T Makeham
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - T Pham
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - L M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - P Floros
- St Vincent's Hospital, 390 Victoria Street, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - E Dowling
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - K Fedder
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - D Shonka
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - J Garneau
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - C H O'Meara
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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12
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Baudouin R, Tartour E, Badoual C, Hans S. Hypothesis of a CD137/Eomes activating axis for effector T cells in HPV oropharyngeal cancers. Mol Med 2024; 30:26. [PMID: 38355394 PMCID: PMC10868089 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00796-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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection is supplanting alcohol and tobacco intoxications as the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer in developed countries. HPV-related squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx (HPV + OSC) present better survival and respond better to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Regulatory T cells (TREG) are mainly described as immunosuppressive and protumoral in most solid cancers. However, TREG are paradoxically associated with a better prognosis in HPV + OSCs. The transcription factor FoxP3 is the basis for the identification of TREG. Among CD4 + FoxP3 + T cells, some have effector functions. A medical hypothesis is formulated here: the existence of a CD137 (4.1BB)-Eomesodermin (Eomes) activated pathway downstream of TCR-specific activation in a subpopulation of CD4 + FoxP3 + T cells may explain this effector function. Evidence suggest that this axis may exist either in CD4 + FoxP3 + T cells or CD8 + T cells. This pathway could lead T cells to strong antitumor cytotoxic activity in a tumor-specific manner. Furthermore, CD137 is one of the most expected targets for the development of agonist immunotherapies. The identification of CD137 + Eomes + FoxP3+/- T cells could be a key element in the selective activation of the most anti-tumor cells in the HPV + OSC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Baudouin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, 40 rue Worth, 92 150, Suresnes, France.
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en- Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), 2 Av. de la Source de la Bièvre, Montigny- le-Bretonneux, 78 180, France.
| | - Eric Tartour
- Université Paris Cite, INSERM, PARCC, Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, Service d'Immunologie biologique, 20, Rue Leblanc, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Cécile Badoual
- Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, Service d'anatomopathologie, 20, Rue Leblanc, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Stéphane Hans
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, 40 rue Worth, 92 150, Suresnes, France
- School of Medicine, UFR Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-en- Yvelines (Paris Saclay University), 2 Av. de la Source de la Bièvre, Montigny- le-Bretonneux, 78 180, France
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13
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Ambrosio MR, Niccolai E, Petrelli F, Di Gloria L, Bertacca G, Giusti A, Baldi S, Cavazzana A, Palmeri M, Perotti B, Ramazzotti M, Arganini M, Amedei A. Immune landscape and oncobiota in HPV-Associated Colorectal Cancer: an explorative study. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:5101-5112. [PMID: 37612430 PMCID: PMC10725376 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01165-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide more than 550,000 new patients suffering from malignant tumors are associated with human papillomaviruses (HPV) infection. However, only a small portion of patients infected progress to cancer, suggesting that other factors other than HPV may play a role. Some studies have investigated HPV infection in colorectal cancer (CRC) with discordant results; moreover, the role of HPV in CRC development is still unknown. We investigated HPV infection in 50 CRC from different regions, excluding the anal one, by immunohistochemistry (IHC), real-time PCR and RNA-seq. For each patient, we studied the tumor microenvironment in neoplastic and matched non-neoplastic samples, and we compared the tumor-infiltrating immune cell phenotypes among HPV-positive and negative samples. Finally, we compared the CRC-associated microbiota in HPV-positive and negative neoplastic samples by 16S rRNA sequencing. HPV infection was identified in 20% of CRC from the right side (caecum, ascending and transverse colon) and in 40% from the left side (descending colon and rectum). In all HPV-positive CRCs we found no expression of p53 and RB, thus suggesting HPV involvement in tumorigenesis. As far as the tumor microenvironment is concerned, in HPV-related cancers we observed a neoplastic environment with a reduced immune surveillance but an enhanced cytotoxic response by lymphocytes. HPV-positive and -negative CRC showed a different microbiota with lack of species normally found in CRC in the HPV-positive ones. Our results support the carcinogenic significance of HPV in CRC, suggesting a role of HPV in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena Niccolai
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Leandro Di Gloria
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, "Mario Serio" University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gloria Bertacca
- Clinical Chemical Analysis and Immuno Allergology Department, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Giusti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Baldi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Palmeri
- Surgery Unit, Ospedale Unico Versilia, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Bruno Perotti
- Surgery Unit, Ospedale Unico Versilia, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Ramazzotti
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, "Mario Serio" University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Arganini
- Surgery Unit, Ospedale Unico Versilia, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- Internal Interdisciplinary Medicine Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134, Florence, Italy.
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14
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Santegoets SJ, Stolk A, Welters MJP, van der Burg SH. The combined HPV16-E2/E6/E7 T cell response in oropharyngeal cancer predicts superior survival. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101262. [PMID: 37924817 PMCID: PMC10694628 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101262] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating HPV16-E2-specific CD8+ T cells have been detected in HPV16-induced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Whether intratumoral CD4+ T cells target HPV16 E2 and if HPV16-E2-specific immunity contributes to better clinical outcome is unknown. In a prospective HPV16+ OPSCC cohort, we regularly detect HPV16-E2-specific CD4+ and CD8+ intratumoral T cells, albeit at lower frequencies than the co-infiltrating HPV16-E6/E7-specific T cells. These HPV16-reactive T cells produce multiple cytokines when activated, indicating their polyfunctionality. Importantly, their combined intratumoral presence predicts superior survival, emphasizing the value of HPV16-E2-specific T cells in anti-tumor immunity and suggests its use as a target antigen for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia J Santegoets
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anouk Stolk
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marij J P Welters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
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15
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Altunbulakli C, Jimenez DG, Askmyr D, Sobti A, Swoboda S, Greiff L, Lindstedt M. Targeted spatial proteomic analysis of CD8 + T- and myeloid cells in tonsillar cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1253418. [PMID: 38044986 PMCID: PMC10691541 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1253418] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tonsillar cancer is caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), tobacco smoking, and alcohol abuse. Aspects of the patient's immune response to this disease have arisen as prognostic factors and treatment targets, reflecting differences in the type and protein expression profile of immune cells. Because tonsillar cancers are heterogenous lesions such data need to be spatially resolved. Methods In this study, we aim to explore inter-patient and intra-tumoral sources of variation in tonsillar cancer using immunofluorescence and targeted spatial proteomics to interrogate a cohort of 105 patients. Furthermore, we assess prognostic factors and elucidate molecular targets. We have used CD8, CD11c, and Pan-cytokeratin (PanCK) to quantify and locate immune cells driving antigen-specific cellular immunity. Guided by immunofluorescence information, we selected 355 CD8+, CD11c+, or PanCK+ areas inside and outside (i.e., stroma) cancer-cell islets, to quantify 43 immune-related proteins using digital spatial profiling. Results Quantitative analysis of immunofluorescence in combination with clinical data revealed that the abundance of total CD8+ cells and CD8+ cells infiltrating cancer-cell islets, respectively, were associated with higher 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival, independently of HPV-status and clinical stage. Comparison of CD8+ cells inside and outside cancer-cell islets revealed an upregulation of effector CD8+ T-cell and immune checkpoint molecules in the former. Among these, the expression of PD-L1 by CD8+ T-cells was associated with lower all-cause mortality in a univariate proportional hazards model. Similarly, a comparison of tumor boundary and stroma CD11c+ cells showed upregulation of both co-stimulatory and immune checkpoint molecules with proximity to tumor cell islets. Conclusion Our findings highlight the relevance of analyzing aspects of tumor micro-architecture in the search of prognostic markers and molecular targets for tonsillar cancer. The abundance of intra-tumoral CD8+ T-cells can be considered a positive predictive marker for tonsillar cancer, while the significance of PD-L1 expression by intra-tumoral CD8+ T-cells warrants further evaluation. Location-based differences in CD8+ and CD11c+ cells suggest an immune cell-altering effect on the tumor microenvironment, and grant new insight into which cells that can be targeted by novel therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Askmyr
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL), Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Aastha Sobti
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sabine Swoboda
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL), Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lennart Greiff
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL), Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Lindstedt
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL), Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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16
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Dawood AA. Uneven Expression of 20 Human Papillomavirus Genes Associated with Oropharyngeal Carcinoma. Rambam Maimonides Med J 2023; 14:RMMJ.10508. [PMID: 37917867 PMCID: PMC10619986 DOI: 10.5041/rmmj.10508] [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: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered to be responsible for 95% of virus-related cancers in many organs. Oropharyngeal carcinoma (OC) is distinguished by the transformation of the healthy epithelium into precancerous cells. AIM The current study sought to examine the uneven gene expression of 20 genes among those scanned by microarray for oropharyngeal cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS The GSE56142 dataset was extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus of the National Center for Biotechnology Information; 24 specimens were evaluated. Gene ontology (GO), the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) were used to depict the biological roles of the genes under investigation using types of software. RESULTS Six genes out of 20 in patients with invasive OC had a binding correlation with high expression (PDGFRS, COL6A3, COL1A1, COL3A1, COL2A1, and COL4A1), and only two genes with low expression (CRCT1 and KRT78). The expression levels of 20 genes were examined for patients with OC versus head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The correlation coefficient between highly expressed genes of the OC group was statistically significant at the P<0.05 level. CONCLUSIONS High expression levels of specific genes may serve as diagnostic tumor markers, particularly in the early stages of cancer, and testing should be performed in OC and HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Adel Dawood
- Microbiology, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
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Haas M, Lein A, Fuereder T, Schnoell J, Brkic FF, Campion NJ, Liu DT, Kadletz-Wanke L, Heiduschka G, Jank BJ. Low free triiodothyronine and immune-related hyperthyroidism are associated with overall and progression-free survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with pembrolizumab. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110799. [PMID: 37598631 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thyroid function is frequently impaired in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC). In patients treated with pembrolizumab, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) of the thyroid are common. However, the prognostic significance of baseline and on-treatment thyroid dysfunction is currently unclear. METHODS This study included 95 patients who received pembrolizumab for R/M HNSCC between 2016 and 2022. Baseline thyroid status, according to serum hormone levels, and irAEs were assessed. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Furthermore, the best overall response according to the prognostic groups was examined. RESULTS Low fT3 (HR: 2.52, p = 0.006), immune-related hyperthyroidism (HR: 0.11, p = 0.038), ECOG performance status ≥2 (HR: 3.72, p = 0.002), and platinum-refractory disease (HR: 3.29, p = 0.020) were independently associated with OS. Furthermore, immune-related hyperthyroidism was associated with longer PFS (HR: 0.13, p = 0.007), a higher objective response rate (83% vs. 31%, p = 0.018), and a higher disease control rate (100% vs. 43%, p = 0.008). Thyroid-related autoantibodies were elevated in 40% of thyroid irAEs cases with available measurements. Out of 16 thyroid irAEs, 15 occurred in patients with fT3 above the lower limit of normal. CONCLUSION Low fT3 was associated with worse OS. Immune-related hyperthyroidism was correlated with both improved OS and PFS. Baseline fT3 assessment and close on-treatment monitoring of serum thyroid levels may be valuable for risk stratification in R/M HNSCC patients receiving pembrolizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Haas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Lein
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thorsten Fuereder
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Schnoell
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Faris F Brkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nicholas J Campion
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - David T Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lorenz Kadletz-Wanke
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Heiduschka
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Bernhard J Jank
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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18
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Fritz C, Barrette LX, Prasad A, Triantafillou V, Suresh N, De Ravin E, Rajasekaran K. Human papillomavirus related oropharyngeal cancer: identifying and quantifying topics of patient interest. J Laryngol Otol 2023; 137:1141-1148. [PMID: 36794539 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215123000270] [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: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As the incidence of human papillomavirus related oropharyngeal cancer continues to rise, it is increasingly important for public understanding to keep pace. This study aimed to identify areas of patient interest and concern regarding human papillomavirus and oropharyngeal cancer. METHOD This study was a retrospective survey of search queries containing the keywords 'HPV cancer' between September 2015 and March 2021. RESULTS There was 3.5-fold more interest in human papillomavirus related oropharyngeal cancer (15 800 searches per month) compared with human papillomavirus related cervical cancer (4500 searches per month). Among searches referencing cancer appearance, 96.8 per cent pertained to the head and neck region (3050 searches per month). Among vaccination searches, 16 of 47 (34.0 per cent; 600 searches per month) referenced human papillomavirus vaccines as being a cause of cancer rather than preventing cancer. CONCLUSION The vast majority of online searches into human papillomavirus cancer pertain to the oropharynx. There are relatively few search queries on the topic of vaccination preventing human papillomavirus associated oropharyngeal cancer, which highlights the continued importance of patient education and awareness campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Fritz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - L-X Barrette
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - A Prasad
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - V Triantafillou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - N Suresh
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - E De Ravin
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - K Rajasekaran
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Kaźmierska J, Bajon T, Winiecki T, Borowczak D, Bandurska-Luque A, Jankowska M, Żmijewska-Tomczak M. Significance of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio as a predictor of outcome in head and neck cancer treated with definitive chemoradiation. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2023; 28:389-398. [PMID: 37795402 PMCID: PMC10547399 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2023.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The role of host immune system in carcinogenesis and response to treatment is increasingly studied, including predictive potential of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes. The objective of the study was to evaluate the prognostic value of pre- and post-treatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR) for treatment outcome in patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (HNSCC) treated with definitive chemoradiation. Materials and methods Electronic medical records of patients were evaluated and NLR was calculated. Cox regression was used to assess the impact of selected variables on overall survival (OS), disease specific survival (DSS), progression free survival (PFS) and distant failure free survival (DFFS). Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios of complete response with NLR. Results 317 patients' records were included in the study. Increases in both pre-and post-NLR were associated with decreased OS in univariable analysis [hazard ratio (HR): 2.26 (1.25-4.07), p = 0.0068 and HR: 1.57 (1.03-2.37), p = 0.035 respectively). Post-NLR remained significant for OS in multivariable analysis [HR: 1.93 (1.22-3.1), p = 0.005] as well as for unfavorable DSS [HR: 2.31 (1.22-4.4), p = 0.01]. Pre-treatment NLR and nodal status correlated with shorter DFFS in multivariable analysis [HR 4.1 (1.14-14), p = 0.03 and HR 5.3: (1.62-18), p = 0.0062, respectively]. Strong correlation of increased both pre- and post-NLR with probability of clinical tumor response (CR) was found [odds ratio (OR): 0.23 (0.08-0.6), p = 0.003, and OR: 0.39 (0.2-0.8), p = 0.01 respectively]. Conclusion NLR evaluated before and post treatment was a strong predictor of unfavorable treatment outcome and can be used for risk evaluation and clinical decision about treatment and post-treatment surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kaźmierska
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poland
- Electroradiology Department, University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Tomasz Bajon
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poland
| | - Tomasz Winiecki
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poland
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20
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Haake M, Haack B, Schäfer T, Harter PN, Mattavelli G, Eiring P, Vashist N, Wedekink F, Genssler S, Fischer B, Dahlhoff J, Mokhtari F, Kuzkina A, Welters MJP, Benz TM, Sorger L, Thiemann V, Almanzar G, Selle M, Thein K, Späth J, Gonzalez MC, Reitinger C, Ipsen-Escobedo A, Wistuba-Hamprecht K, Eichler K, Filipski K, Zeiner PS, Beschorner R, Goedemans R, Gogolla FH, Hackl H, Rooswinkel RW, Thiem A, Roche PR, Joshi H, Pühringer D, Wöckel A, Diessner JE, Rüdiger M, Leo E, Cheng PF, Levesque MP, Goebeler M, Sauer M, Nimmerjahn F, Schuberth-Wagner C, von Felten S, Mittelbronn M, Mehling M, Beilhack A, van der Burg SH, Riedel A, Weide B, Dummer R, Wischhusen J. Tumor-derived GDF-15 blocks LFA-1 dependent T cell recruitment and suppresses responses to anti-PD-1 treatment. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4253. [PMID: 37474523 PMCID: PMC10359308 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39817-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade therapy is beneficial and even curative for some cancer patients. However, the majority don't respond to immune therapy. Across different tumor types, pre-existing T cell infiltrates predict response to checkpoint-based immunotherapy. Based on in vitro pharmacological studies, mouse models and analyses of human melanoma patients, we show that the cytokine GDF-15 impairs LFA-1/β2-integrin-mediated adhesion of T cells to activated endothelial cells, which is a pre-requisite of T cell extravasation. In melanoma patients, GDF-15 serum levels strongly correlate with failure of PD-1-based immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Neutralization of GDF-15 improves both T cell trafficking and therapy efficiency in murine tumor models. Thus GDF-15, beside its known role in cancer-related anorexia and cachexia, emerges as a regulator of T cell extravasation into the tumor microenvironment, which provides an even stronger rationale for therapeutic anti-GDF-15 antibody development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Haake
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Beatrice Haack
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tina Schäfer
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick N Harter
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurological Institute (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Center for Neuropathology and Prion Research, Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Greta Mattavelli
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Eiring
- Department of Biotechnology and Biophysics, Julius Maximilians University Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Neha Vashist
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Wedekink
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Birgitt Fischer
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Dahlhoff
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Mokhtari
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anastasia Kuzkina
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marij J P Welters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Tamara M Benz
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lena Sorger
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Vincent Thiemann
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Giovanni Almanzar
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martina Selle
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Klara Thein
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jacob Späth
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Carmen Reitinger
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea Ipsen-Escobedo
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kilian Wistuba-Hamprecht
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Section for Clinical Bioinformatics, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kristin Eichler
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Filipski
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurological Institute (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Pia S Zeiner
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurological Institute (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Neurooncology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Rudi Beschorner
- Department of Neuropathology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Renske Goedemans
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Falk Hagen Gogolla
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hubert Hackl
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Alexander Thiem
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Clinic for Dermatology and Venereology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Paula Romer Roche
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Hemant Joshi
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Dirk Pühringer
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Achim Wöckel
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Joachim E Diessner
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Eugen Leo
- CatalYm GmbH, Am Klopferspitz 19, 82152, Munich, Germany
| | - Phil F Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, University of Zurich, University of Zurich Hospital, Wagistrasse 18, 8952, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mitchell P Levesque
- Department of Dermatology, University of Zurich, University of Zurich Hospital, Wagistrasse 18, 8952, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Markus Sauer
- Department of Biotechnology and Biophysics, Julius Maximilians University Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Falk Nimmerjahn
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Stefanie von Felten
- oikostat GmbH, Statistical Analyses and Consulting, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Michel Mittelbronn
- Department of Oncology (DONC), Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS), Dudelange, Luxembourg
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Matthias Mehling
- Department of Biomedicine and Neurology Department, University Hospital Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Beilhack
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Angela Riedel
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Weide
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Jörg Wischhusen
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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21
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Conarty JP, Wieland A. The Tumor-Specific Immune Landscape in HPV+ Head and Neck Cancer. Viruses 2023; 15:1296. [PMID: 37376596 DOI: 10.3390/v15061296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the causative agent of several anogenital cancers as well as head and neck cancers, with HPV+ head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) becoming a rapidly growing public health issue in the Western world. Due its viral etiology and potentially its subanatomical location, HPV+ HNSCC exhibits an immune microenvironment which is more inflamed and thus distinct from HPV-negative HNSCC. Notably, the antigenic landscape in most HPV+ HNSCC tumors extends beyond the classical HPV oncoproteins E6/7 and is extensively targeted by both the humoral and cellular arms of the adaptive immune system. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of HPV-specific immune responses in patients with HPV+ HNSCC. We highlight the localization, antigen specificity, and differentiation states of humoral and cellular immune responses, and discuss their similarities and differences. Finally, we review currently pursued immunotherapeutic treatment modalities that attempt to harness HPV-specific immune responses for improving clinical outcomes in patients with HPV+ HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob P Conarty
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Andreas Wieland
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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22
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Starska-Kowarska K. The Role of Different Immunocompetent Cell Populations in the Pathogenesis of Head and Neck Cancer-Regulatory Mechanisms of Pro- and Anti-Cancer Activity and Their Impact on Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:1642. [PMID: 36980527 PMCID: PMC10046400 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061642] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most aggressive and heterogeneous groups of human neoplasms. HNSCC is characterized by high morbidity, accounting for 3% of all cancers, and high mortality with ~1.5% of all cancer deaths. It was the most common cancer worldwide in 2020, according to the latest GLOBOCAN data, representing the seventh most prevalent human malignancy. Despite great advances in surgical techniques and the application of modern combinations and cytotoxic therapies, HNSCC remains a leading cause of death worldwide with a low overall survival rate not exceeding 40-60% of the patient population. The most common causes of death in patients are its frequent nodal metastases and local neoplastic recurrences, as well as the relatively low response to treatment and severe drug resistance. Much evidence suggests that the tumour microenvironment (TME), tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and circulating various subpopulations of immunocompetent cells, such regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Tregs), cytotoxic CD3+CD8+ T cells (CTLs) and CD3+CD4+ T helper type 1/2/9/17 (Th1/Th2/Th9/Th17) lymphocytes, T follicular helper cells (Tfh) and CD56dim/CD16bright activated natural killer cells (NK), carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumour-associated neutrophils (N1/N2 TANs), as well as tumour-associated macrophages (M1/M2 phenotype TAMs) can affect initiation, progression and spread of HNSCC and determine the response to immunotherapy. Rapid advances in the field of immuno-oncology and the constantly growing knowledge of the immunosuppressive mechanisms and effects of tumour cancer have allowed for the use of effective and personalized immunotherapy as a first-line therapeutic procedure or an essential component of a combination therapy for primary, relapsed and metastatic HNSCC. This review presents the latest reports and molecular studies regarding the anti-tumour role of selected subpopulations of immunocompetent cells in the pathogenesis of HNSCC, including HPV+ve (HPV+) and HPV-ve (HPV-) tumours. The article focuses on the crucial regulatory mechanisms of pro- and anti-tumour activity, key genetic or epigenetic changes that favour tumour immune escape, and the strategies that the tumour employs to avoid recognition by immunocompetent cells, as well as resistance mechanisms to T and NK cell-based immunotherapy in HNSCC. The present review also provides an overview of the pre- and clinical early trials (I/II phase) and phase-III clinical trials published in this arena, which highlight the unprecedented effectiveness and limitations of immunotherapy in HNSCC, and the emerging issues facing the field of HNSCC immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Starska-Kowarska
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland; ; Tel.: +48-604-541-412
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, EnelMed Center Expert, Drewnowska 58, 91-001 Lodz, Poland
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23
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Identifying tumour microenvironment-related signature that correlates with prognosis and immunotherapy response in breast cancer. Sci Data 2023; 10:119. [PMID: 36869083 PMCID: PMC9984471 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02032-2] [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: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays important roles in prognosis and immune evasion. However, the relationship between TME-related genes and clinical prognosis, immune cell infiltration, and immunotherapy response in breast cancer (BRCA) remains unclear. This study described the TME pattern to construct a TME-related prognosis signature, including risk factors PXDNL, LINC02038 and protective factors SLC27A2, KLRB1, IGHV1-12 and IGKV1OR2-108, as an independent prognostic factor for BRCA. We found that the prognosis signature was negatively correlated with the survival time of BRCA patients, infiltration of immune cells and the expression of immune checkpoints, while positively correlated with tumor mutation burden and adverse treatment effects of immunotherapy. Upregulation of PXDNL and LINC02038 and downregulation of SLC27A2, KLRB1, IGHV1-12 and IGKV1OR2-108 in high-risk score group synergistically contribute to immunosuppressive microenvironment which characterized by immunosuppressive neutrophils, impaired cytotoxic T lymphocytes migration and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. In summary, we identified a TME-related prognostic signature in BRCA, which was connected with immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, immunotherapy response and could be developed for immunotherapy targets.
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24
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Kitakaze M, Uemura M, Hara T, Chijimatsu R, Motooka D, Hirai T, Konno M, Okuzaki D, Sekido Y, Hata T, Ogino T, Takahashi H, Miyoshi N, Ofusa K, Mizushima T, Eguchi H, Doki Y, Ishii H. Cancer-specific tissue-resident memory T-cells express ZNF683 in colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1828-1837. [PMID: 36869093 PMCID: PMC10147592 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02202-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue-resident memory T (Trm) cells are associated with cytotoxicity not only in viral infection and autoimmune disease pathologies but also in many cancers. Tumour-infiltrating CD103+ Trm cells predominantly comprise CD8 T cells that express cytotoxic activation and immune checkpoint molecules called exhausted markers. This study aimed to investigate the role of Trm in colorectal cancer (CRC) and characterise the cancer-specific Trm. METHODS Immunochemical staining with anti-CD8 and anti-CD103 antibodies for resected CRC tissues was used to identify the tumour-infiltrating Trm cells. The Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to evaluate the prognostic significance. Cells immune to CRC were targeted for single-cell RNA-seq analysis to characterise cancer-specific Trm cells in CRC. RESULTS The number of CD103+/CD8+ tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was a favourable prognostic and predictive factor of the overall survival and recurrence-free survival in patients with CRC. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis of 17,257 CRC-infiltrating immune cells revealed a more increased zinc finger protein 683 (ZNF683) expression in cancer Trm cells than in noncancer Trm cells and in high-infiltrating Trm cells than low-infiltrating Trm in cancer, with an upregulated T-cell receptor (TCR)- and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) signalling-related gene expression in ZNF683+ Trm cells. CONCLUSIONS The number of CD103+/CD8+ TILs is a prognostic predictive factor in CRC. In addition, we identified the ZNF683 expression as one of the candidate markers of cancer-specific Trm cells. IFN-γ and TCR signalling and ZNF683 expression are involved in Trm cell activation in tumours and are promising targets for cancer immunity regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Kitakaze
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mamoru Uemura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Hara
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ryota Chijimatsu
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Daisuke Motooka
- Genome Information Research Center, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Toshiro Hirai
- Genome Information Research Center, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Konno
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-0064, Japan
| | - Daisuke Okuzaki
- Genome Information Research Center, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Sekido
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hata
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ogino
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Norikatsu Miyoshi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ken Ofusa
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Prophoenix Division, Food and Life-Science Laboratory, Idea Consultants, Inc., Osaka-city, Osaka, 559-8519, Japan
| | - Tsunekazu Mizushima
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hideshi Ishii
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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25
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Ruffin AT, Li H, Vujanovic L, Zandberg DP, Ferris RL, Bruno TC. Improving head and neck cancer therapies by immunomodulation of the tumour microenvironment. Nat Rev Cancer 2023; 23:173-188. [PMID: 36456755 PMCID: PMC9992112 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00531-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Targeted immunotherapy has improved patient survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but less than 20% of patients produce a durable response to these treatments. Thus, new immunotherapies that consider all key players of the complex HNSCC tumour microenvironment (TME) are necessary to further enhance tumour-specific T cell responses in patients. HNSCC is an ideal tumour type in which to evaluate immune and non-immune cell differences because of two distinct TME aetiologies (human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and HPV-negative disease), multiple anatomic sites for tumour growth, and clear distinctions between patients with locally advanced disease and those with recurrent and/or metastatic disease. Recent technological and scientific advancements have provided a more complete picture of all cellular constituents within this complex TME and have evaluated the interplay of both immune and non-immune cells within HNSCC. Here, we include a comprehensive analysis of the complete ecosystem of the HNSCC TME, performed utilizing data-rich resources such as The Cancer Genome Atlas, and cutting-edge techniques, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, high-dimensional flow cytometry and spatial multispectral imaging, to generate improved treatment strategies for this diverse disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayana T Ruffin
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Graduate Program of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Housaiyin Li
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology (MGDB) Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lazar Vujanovic
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dan P Zandberg
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert L Ferris
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Tullia C Bruno
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Tumour Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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26
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Mühlenbruch L, Abou-Kors T, Dubbelaar ML, Bichmann L, Kohlbacher O, Bens M, Thomas J, Ezić J, Kraus JM, Kestler HA, von Witzleben A, Mytilineos J, Fürst D, Engelhardt D, Doescher J, Greve J, Schuler PJ, Theodoraki MN, Brunner C, Hoffmann TK, Rammensee HG, Walz JS, Laban S. The HLA ligandome of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas reveals shared tumour-exclusive peptides for semi-personalised vaccination. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1777-1787. [PMID: 36823366 PMCID: PMC9949688 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02197-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The immune peptidome of OPSCC has not previously been studied. Cancer-antigen specific vaccination may improve clinical outcome and efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PD1/PD-L1 antibodies. METHODS Mapping of the OPSCC HLA ligandome was performed by mass spectrometry (MS) based analysis of naturally presented HLA ligands isolated from tumour tissue samples (n = 40) using immunoaffinity purification. The cohort included 22 HPV-positive (primarily HPV-16) and 18 HPV-negative samples. A benign reference dataset comprised of the HLA ligandomes of benign haematological and tissue datasets was used to identify tumour-associated antigens. RESULTS MS analysis led to the identification of naturally HLA-presented peptides in OPSCC tumour tissue. In total, 22,769 peptides from 9485 source proteins were detected on HLA class I. For HLA class II, 15,203 peptides from 4634 source proteins were discovered. By comparative profiling against the benign HLA ligandomic datasets, 29 OPSCC-associated HLA class I ligands covering 11 different HLA allotypes and nine HLA class II ligands were selected to create a peptide warehouse. CONCLUSION Tumour-associated peptides are HLA-presented on the cell surfaces of OPSCCs. The established warehouse of OPSCC-associated peptides can be used for downstream immunogenicity testing and peptide-based immunotherapy in (semi)personalised strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Mühlenbruch
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany
| | - Tsima Abou-Kors
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marissa L. Dubbelaar
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Quantitative Biology Center (QBiC), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany
| | - Leon Bichmann
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Applied Bioinformatics, Department of Computer Science, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany
| | - Oliver Kohlbacher
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Applied Bioinformatics, Department of Computer Science, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence Machine Learning in the Sciences (EXC2064), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Institute for Translational Bioinformatics, University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Bioinformatics and Medical Informatics, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany
| | - Martin Bens
- grid.418245.e0000 0000 9999 5706Leibniz-Institute on Aging, Fritz-Lipmann-Institute, 07745 Jena, Thüringen Germany
| | - Jaya Thomas
- grid.5491.90000 0004 1936 9297CRUK and NIHR Experimental Cancer Medicine Center & School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ UK
| | - Jasmin Ezić
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johann M. Kraus
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Ulm University, Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hans A. Kestler
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Ulm University, Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm, Germany
| | - Adrian von Witzleben
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Joannis Mytilineos
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XInstitute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden–Württemberg–Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany ,grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany ,German Stem Cell Donor Registry, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daniel Fürst
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XInstitute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden–Württemberg–Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany ,grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daphne Engelhardt
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johannes Doescher
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jens Greve
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Patrick J. Schuler
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marie-Nicole Theodoraki
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cornelia Brunner
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas K. Hoffmann
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Rammensee
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany
| | - Juliane S. Walz
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute for Cell Biology, Department of Immunology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg 72076 Germany
| | - Simon Laban
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Head and Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany.
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27
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Differences between Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Base of the Tongue and the Tonsils in Prevalence of HPV16 Infection, Its Type, and Clinical Features. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020361. [PMID: 36836594 PMCID: PMC9963976 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020361] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Regarding attempts to find de-escalation methods of treatment for patients with HPV16-positive squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (OPSCC), there is an urgent need to identify new prognostic factors which allow physicians to differentiate the prognosis of these patients. The aim of the study is to compare the incidence of transcriptionally active HPV16 infection and its type as well as other epidemiological, clinical, and histopathological features between SCC of the base of the tongue (BOTSCC) and tonsils (TSSCC). The analysis was performed in a group of 63 patients with OPSCC, for which, in our earlier studies, we assessed transcriptionally active HPV16 infection and its type (viral load and viral genome status). Transcriptionally active HPV16 infection was significantly more common in TSSCC (96.3%) than in BOTSCC (3.7%). Patients with TSSCC had significantly higher disease-free survival rates (84.1%) than those with BTSCC (47.4%); the same was true in the subgroup with HPV16 positivity. The obtained results are an important indication for further research on the development of new prognostic and/or predictive factors for patients with HPV16-positive squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx.
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28
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Intratumoral microbiota: roles in cancer initiation, development and therapeutic efficacy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:35. [PMID: 36646684 PMCID: PMC9842669 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01304-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other eukaryotes, play critical roles in human health. An altered microbiome can be associated with complex diseases. Intratumoral microbial components are found in multiple tumor tissues and are closely correlated with cancer initiation and development and therapy efficacy. The intratumoral microbiota may contribute to promotion of the initiation and progression of cancers by DNA mutations, activating carcinogenic pathways, promoting chronic inflammation, complement system, and initiating metastasis. Moreover, the intratumoral microbiota may not only enhance antitumor immunity via mechanisms including STING signaling activation, T and NK cell activation, TLS production, and intratumoral microbiota-derived antigen presenting, but also decrease antitumor immune responses and promote cancer progression through pathways including upregulation of ROS, promoting an anti-inflammatory environment, T cell inactivation, and immunosuppression. The effect of intratumoral microbiota on antitumor immunity is dependent on microbiota composition, crosstalk between microbiota and the cancer, and status of cancers. The intratumoral microbiota may regulate cancer cell physiology and the immune response by different signaling pathways, including ROS, β-catenin, TLR, ERK, NF-κB, and STING, among others. These viewpoints may help identify the microbiota as diagnosis or prognosis evaluation of cancers, and as new therapeutic strategy and potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy.
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29
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Gorvel L, Olive D. Tumor associated macrophage in HPV + tumors: Between immunosuppression and inflammation. Semin Immunol 2023; 65:101671. [PMID: 36459926 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, with the rise of immunotherapies, tumor infiltrating immune cells were increasingly investigated. Indeed, they may represent biomarkers for patient outcome prediction, they may bear immune checkpoint markers that can be targeted by therapeutic antibodies and mechanistic studies may reveal how to tweak their activation profile so that we can re-direct them towards tumor cells. Macrophages possess a central place in tissue homeostasis for tissue remodeling and cleaning, transformed cell elimination, phagocytosis and regulation of inflammation via cytokine production. All these functions allow the discovery of approaches to target Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAMs) using immunotherapies. Indeed, TAMs express known immune checkpoint markers such as PD-L1, CD40, Sirp-α and markers such as CD163, CD204, TREM2, TREM1 associated with prognosis. In the context of therapies TAM may participate to antibody dependent cell phagocytosis (ADCP) thanks to FCγ-Receptors. Here, we will review the recent literature on TAMs in the specific context of HPV+ tumors. Indeed, HPV infection of mucosal tissue may lead to head and neck, cervical, penile, anal and vaginal cancers. HPV+ tumors exhibit a higher immune cell infiltrate, which relies on inflammation, immunosuppression and anti-viral response. In this context, and considering the many functions on macrophages, we will show the versatility of TAMs in a tumor microenvironment with viral infection features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Gorvel
- Tumor immunology laboratory, IBISA immunomonitoring platform, Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Marseille, France.
| | - Daniel Olive
- Tumor immunology laboratory, IBISA immunomonitoring platform, Cancer Research Center of Marseille, Marseille, France
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30
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Kowalczyk JT, Fabian KP, Padget MR, Lopez DC, Hoke ATK, Allen CT, Hermsen M, London, NR, Hodge JW. Exploiting the immunogenic potential of standard of care radiation or cisplatin therapy in preclinical models of HPV-associated malignancies. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005752. [PMID: 36564129 PMCID: PMC9791467 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While radiation and chemotherapy are primarily purposed for their cytotoxic effects, a growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence demonstrates an immunogenic potential for these standard therapies. Accordingly, we sought to characterize the immunogenic potential of radiation and cisplatin in human tumor models of HPV-associated malignancies. These studies may inform rational combination immuno-oncology (IO) strategies to be employed in the clinic on the backbone of standard of care, and in so doing exploit the immunogenic potential of standard of care to improve durable responses in HPV-associated malignancies. METHODS Retroviral transduction with HPV16 E7 established a novel HPV-associated sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) cell line. Three established HPV16-positive cell lines were also studied (cervical carcinoma and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma). Following determination of sensitivities to standard therapies using MTT assays, flow cytometry was used to characterize induction of immunogenic cell stress following sublethal exposure to radiation or cisplatin, and the functional consequence of this induction was determined using impedance-based real time cell analysis cytotoxicity assays employing HPV16 E7-specific cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) with or without N803 (IL-15/IL-15-Rα superagonist) or exogenous death receptor ligands. In vitro observations were translated using an in vivo xenograft NSG mouse model of human cervical carcinoma evaluating cisplatin in combination with CTL adoptive cell transfer. RESULTS We showed that subpopulations surviving clinically relevant doses of radiation or cisplatin therapy were more susceptible to CTL-mediated lysis in four of four tumor models of HPV-associated malignancies, serving as a model for HPV therapeutic vaccine or T-cell receptor adoptive cell transfer. This increased killing was further amplified by IL-15 agonism employing N803. We further characterized that radiation or cisplatin induced immunogenic cell stress in three of three cell lines, and consequently demonstrated that upregulated surface expression of Fas and TRAIL-R2 death receptors at least in part mediated enhanced CTL-mediated lysis. In vivo, cisplatin-induced immunogenic cell stress synergistically potentiated CTL-mediated tumor control in a human model of HPV-associated malignancy. CONCLUSION Standard of care radiation or cisplatin therapy induced immunogenic cell stress in preclinical models of HPV-associated malignancies, presenting an opportunity poised for exploitation by employing IO strategies in combination with standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Kowalczyk
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kellsye P Fabian
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michelle R Padget
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Diana C Lopez
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Austin TK Hoke
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Clint T Allen
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mario Hermsen
- Department Head and Neck Cancer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nyall R London,
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA,Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumor Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA,Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - James W Hodge
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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31
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The common HLA class I-restricted tumor-infiltrating T cell response in HPV16-induced cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2022; 72:1553-1565. [DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AbstractImmunotherapies targeting truly tumor-specific targets focus on the expansion and activation of T cells against neoantigens or oncogenic viruses. One target is the human papilloma virus type 16 (HPV16), responsible for several anogenital cancers and oropharyngeal carcinomas. Spontaneous and vaccine-induced HPV-specific T cells have been associated with better clinical outcome. However, the epitopes and restriction elements to which these T cells respond remained elusive. To identify CD8+ T cell epitopes in cultures of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, we here used multimers and/or a functional screening platform exploiting single HLA class I allele-engineered antigen presenting cells. This resulted in the detection of 20 CD8+ T cell responses to 11 different endogenously processed HLA-peptide combinations within 12 HPV16-induced tumors. Specific HLA-peptide combinations dominated the response in patients expressing these HLA alleles. T cell receptors (TCRs) reactive to seven different HLA class I-restricted peptides could be isolated and analysis revealed tumor reactivity for five of the six TCRs analyzed. The tumor reactive TCRs to these dominant HLA class I peptide combinations can potentially be used to engineer tumor-specific T cells for adoptive cell transfer approaches to treat HPV16-induced cancers.
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32
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Stukan AI, Murashko RA, Tsygan NA, Goryainova AY, Nefedov ON, Porkhanov VA. Adaptive immune response in pathogenesis and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: the influence of immunosuppression factors and gender. HEAD AND NECK TUMORS (HNT) 2022. [DOI: 10.17650/2222-1468-2022-12-3-114-126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
An obvious trend of the last decade in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma pathogenesis evaluation is awareness of the impact of immune response disorders on disease manifestation. The review presents an analysis of the differences in the type and degree of immunosuppression, as well as treatment response in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients in accordance with influencing carcinogenic factor, gender, age of the patient and concomitant diseases. An increase in CD8+ T-lymphocytes and a decrease of memory T-cells has been evaluated in smoking and alcohol abusing patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and a smaller number of CD8+ T-lymphocytes were detected in the tumor microenvironment compared to non-smoking and non-drinking patients. Studies have shown that the improved prognosis of patients with human papillomavirus (Hpv) – associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is largely due to the presence of antibodies against Hpv E6 and E7, E7-specific CD8+T lymphocytes in periphe ral blood and a high level of tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes. The issue of gender differences in the type of immune response is widely discussed. It has been shown that the use of immune response checkpoint inhibitors is more effective in improving survival rates in men, and the use of these drugs in combination with chemotherapy is more effective in women. In addition, in elderly cancer patients, numerous age-associated T-lymphocyte’s function changes were revealed, including a decrease in the number of naive T-lymphocytes due to age-related involution of the thymus and an in crease in the relative number of memory cells and effector cells. Thus, it is clear that immunosuppression type, as well as treatment response, differ depending on the influencing factor, gender, age of the patient, as well as comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. I. Stukan
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory; Kuban State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - R. A. Murashko
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory; Kuban State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - N. A. Tsygan
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory
| | - A. Yu. Goryainova
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory; Kuban State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - O. N. Nefedov
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory; Kuban State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - V. A. Porkhanov
- Clinical Oncological Dispensary No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory; Kuban State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia; S.V. Ochapovsky Research Institute – Regional Clinical Hospital No. 1, Ministry of Health of Krasnodar Territory
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33
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Enhancing the Effect of Nucleic Acid Vaccines in the Treatment of HPV-Related Cancers: An Overview of Delivery Systems. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121444. [PMID: 36558778 PMCID: PMC9781236 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Prophylactic vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV) have proven efficacy in those who have not been infected by the virus. However, they do not benefit patients with established tumors. Therefore, the development of therapeutic options for HPV-related malignancies is critical. Third-generation vaccines based on nucleic acids are fast and simple approaches to eliciting adaptive immune responses. However, techniques to boost immunogenicity, reduce degradation, and facilitate their capture by immune cells are frequently required. One option to overcome this constraint is to employ delivery systems that allow selective antigen absorption and help modulate the immune response. This review aimed to discuss the influence of these different systems on the response generated by nucleic acid vaccines. The results indicate that delivery systems based on lipids, polymers, and microorganisms such as yeasts can be used to ensure the stability and transport of nucleic acid vaccines to their respective protein synthesis compartments. Thus, in view of the limitations of nucleic acid-based vaccines, it is important to consider the type of delivery system to be used-due to its impact on the immune response and desired final effect.
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34
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Castellano LRC, Cruz SBSC, Hier M, Bonan PRF, Alaoui-Jamali MA, da Silva SD. Implications and Emerging Therapeutic Avenues of Inflammatory Response in HPV+ Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5406. [PMID: 36358823 PMCID: PMC9657300 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies which have shown exponential incidence in the last two decades especially due to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV family comprises more than 100 types of viruses with HPV16 and HPV18 being the most prevalent strains in HNSCC. Literature data reveal that the mutation profile as well as the response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy are distinct among HPV+ versus HPV-negative tumors. Furthermore, the presence of the virus induces activation of an immune response, in particular the recruitment of specific antiviral T lymphocytes to tumor sites. These T cells when activated produce soluble factors including cytokines and chemokines capable of modifying the local immune tumor microenvironment and impact on tumor response to the treatment. In this comprehensive review we investigated current knowledge on how the presence of an HPV can modify the inflammatory response systemically and within the tumor microenvironment's immunological responses, thereby impacting on disease prognosis and survival. We highlighted the research gaps and emerging approaches necessary to discover novel immunotherapeutic targets for HPV-associated HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lúcio Roberto Cançado Castellano
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and Lady Davis Institutes for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
- Human Immunology Research and Education Group, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Sara Brito Silva Costa Cruz
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and Lady Davis Institutes for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
- Human Immunology Research and Education Group, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Michael Hier
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and Lady Davis Institutes for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Paulo Rogério Ferreti Bonan
- Human Immunology Research and Education Group, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Moulay A. Alaoui-Jamali
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and Lady Davis Institutes for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Sabrina Daniela da Silva
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and Lady Davis Institutes for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
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35
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Weng M, Xie H, Zheng M, Hou X, Wang S, Huang Y. Identification of CD161 expression as a novel prognostic biomarker in breast cancer correlated with immune infiltration. Front Genet 2022; 13:996345. [PMID: 36246587 PMCID: PMC9561259 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.996345] [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: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:CD161 has been identified as a prognostic biomarker in many neoplasms, but its role in breast cancer (BC) has not been fully explained. We aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism and prognostic value of CD161 in BC. Methods:CD161 expression profile was extracted from TIMER, Oncomine, UALCAN databases, and verified by the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The prognostic value of CD161 was assessed via GEPIA, Kaplan–Meier plotter and PrognoScan databases. The Cox regression and nomogram analyses were conducted to further validate the association between CD161 expression and survival. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed to probe the tumor-associated annotations of CD161. CIBERSORT and ssGSEA were employed to investigate the correlation between CD161 expression and immune cell infiltration in BC, and the result was verified by TIMER and TISIDB. Results: Multiple BC cohorts showed that CD161 expression was decreased in BC, and a high CD161 expression was associated with a preferable prognosis. Therefore, we identified the combined model including CD161, age and PR status to predict the survival (C index = 0.78) of BC patients. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that CD161 and its co-expressed genes were closely related to several cancerous and immune signaling pathways, suggesting its involvement in immune response during cancer development. Moreover, immune infiltration analysis revealed that CD161 expression was correlated with immune infiltration. Conclusion: Collectively, our findings revealed that CD161 may serve as a potential biomarker for favorable prognosis and a promising immune therapeutic target in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Weng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Xie
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingjie Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinwen Hou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Shui Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Shui Wang, ; Yue Huang,
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Shui Wang, ; Yue Huang,
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36
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Blasco MA, Noel CW, Truong T, Huang SH, Goldstein DP, Irish JC, Gilbert R, Hosni A, Hope A, O'Sullivan B, Waldron J, Perez-Ordonez B, Weinreb I, Smith SM, Bartlett E, Yu E, de Almeida JR. Radiologic-pathologic correlation of major versus minor extranodal extension in oral cavity cancer. Head Neck 2022; 44:1422-1429. [PMID: 35315548 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the diagnostic performance of radiologic extranodal extension (rENE) in predicting major (>2 mm) and minor (≤2 mm) pathologic ENE (pENE). METHODS All oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma patients who underwent neck dissection with pathological nodal disease (pN+) between 2010 and 2015 were reviewed. Preoperative computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging were reviewed by two head and neck neuroradiologists. RESULTS Three hundred and thirty-four patients were included. The sensitivity and specificity of rENE were 37% [95% CI 29-44] and 98% [95% CI 96-100], respectively. Sensitivity for pENE improved in the subset of patients with major ENE (48% [95% CI 38-57]). The presence of rENE was associated with inferior 3-year overall survival: 26% [95% CI 17-41] versus 60% [95% CI 54-67]. CONCLUSIONS This large cohort study demonstrates high specificity, but low sensitivity for preoperative imaging in the detection of pENE in OCSCC. Patients with rENE demonstrated poor OS. pENE in the absence of rENE is still an adverse risk factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Blasco
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher W Noel
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tra Truong
- Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shao Hui Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David P Goldstein
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan C Irish
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ralph Gilbert
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ali Hosni
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Hope
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian O'Sullivan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John Waldron
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bayardo Perez-Ordonez
- Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ilan Weinreb
- Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen M Smith
- Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric Bartlett
- Department of Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Imaging, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eugene Yu
- Department of Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Imaging, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John R de Almeida
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery/Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre-University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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37
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Hu C, Huang Q, Sun Q. The Regulation of Lymph Node Pre-Metastatic Niche Formation in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:852611. [PMID: 35574333 PMCID: PMC9094482 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.852611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In many distinct forms of malignancies, there is a close relationship between lymph node (LN) metastases and further dissemination to distant organs, and this is a critical prognostic factor. At the beginning of the process, the original tumor secretes soluble substances or releases extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are carried through lymphatic channels to draining (sentinel) LN. The tumor-derived factors then drive LN remodeling. These significant alterations occur prior to the emergence of the first metastatic cell, bringing about the development of a pre-metastatic niche that allows metastatic cells to survive and thrive. In this review, we discuss current information available about the regulation of lymph node pre-metastatic niche in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and the role of EVs in forming the pre-metastatic niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Hu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, QingPu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, QingPu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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38
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Plasma-Enabled Smart Nanoexosome Platform as Emerging Immunopathogenesis for Clinical Viral Infection. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051054. [PMID: 35631640 PMCID: PMC9145689 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Smart nanoexosomes are nanosized structures enclosed in lipid bilayers that are structurally similar to the viruses released by a variety of cells, including the cells lining the respiratory system. Of particular importance, the interaction between smart nanoexosomes and viruses can be used to develop antiviral drugs and vaccines. It is possible that nanoexosomes will be utilized and antibodies will be acquired more successfully for the transmission of an immune response if reconvalescent plasma (CP) is used instead of reconvalescent plasma exosomes (CPExo) in this concept. Convalescent plasma contains billions of smart nanoexosomes capable of transporting a variety of molecules, including proteins, lipids, RNA and DNA among other viral infections. Smart nanoexosomes are released from virus-infected cells and play an important role in mediating communication between infected and uninfected cells. Infections use the formation, production and release of smart nanoexosomes to enhance the infection, transmission and intercellular diffusion of viruses. Cell-free smart nanoexosomes produced by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could also be used as cell-free therapies in certain cases. Smart nanoexosomes produced by mesenchymal stem cells can also promote mitochondrial function and heal lung injury. They can reduce cytokine storms and restore the suppression of host antiviral defenses weakened by viral infections. This study examines the benefits of smart nanoexosomes and their roles in viral transmission, infection, treatment, drug delivery and clinical applications. We also explore some potential future applications for smart nanoexosomes in the treatment of viral infections.
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39
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Muntinga CLP, de Vos van Steenwijk PJ, Bekkers RLM, van Esch EMG. Importance of the Immune Microenvironment in the Spontaneous Regression of Cervical Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (cSIL) and Implications for Immunotherapy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11051432. [PMID: 35268523 PMCID: PMC8910829 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11051432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (cHSILs) develop as a result of a persistent high-risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) infection. The natural course of cHSIL is hard to predict, depending on a multitude of viral, clinical, and immunological factors. Local immunity is pivotal in the pathogenesis, spontaneous regression, and progression of cervical dysplasia; however, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. The aim of this review is to outline the changes in the immune microenvironment in spontaneous regression, persistence, and responses to (immuno)therapy. In lesion persistence and progression, the immune microenvironment of cHSIL is characterized by a lack of intraepithelial CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cell infiltrates and Langerhans cells compared to the normal epithelium and by an increased number of CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD163+ M2 macrophages. Spontaneous regression is characterized by low numbers of Tregs, more intraepithelial CD8+ T cells, and a high CD4+/CD25+ T cell ratio. A ‘hot’ immune microenvironment appears to be essential for spontaneous regression of cHSIL. Moreover, immunotherapy, such as imiquimod and therapeutic HPV vaccination, may enhance a preexisting pro-inflammatory immune environment contributing to lesion regression. The preexisting immune composition may reflect the potential for lesion regression, leading to a possible immune biomarker for immunotherapy in cHSILs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L. P. Muntinga
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Catharina Ziekenhuis Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, The Netherlands; (C.L.P.M.); (R.L.M.B.)
- GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Peggy J. de Vos van Steenwijk
- GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht Universitair Medisch Centrum, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud L. M. Bekkers
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Catharina Ziekenhuis Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, The Netherlands; (C.L.P.M.); (R.L.M.B.)
- GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Edith M. G. van Esch
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Catharina Ziekenhuis Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, The Netherlands; (C.L.P.M.); (R.L.M.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-402-399-111
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40
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Billmeier A, Khinvasara K, Lang F, Mohr J, Reidenbach D, Schork M, Yildiz I, Diken M. CIMT 2021: report on the 18th Annual Meeting of the Association for Cancer Immunotherapy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2024416. [PMID: 35130105 PMCID: PMC8993083 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.2024416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
After one year of absence, the 18th Annual Meeting of the Association for Cancer Immunotherapy (CIMT), Europe’s cancer immunotherapy meeting, took place virtually from 10 to 12 May 2021. Over 850 academic and clinical professionals from 30 countries met to discuss the recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy and the current progress in COVID19-related research. This meeting report summarizes the highlights of CIMT2021.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Krutika Khinvasara
- TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - Franziska Lang
- TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Daniel Reidenbach
- TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maik Schork
- TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ikra Yildiz
- TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - Mustafa Diken
- BioNTech SE, Mainz, Germany.,TRON-Translational Oncology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
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41
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Braud VM, Meghraoui-Kheddar A, Elaldi R, Petti L, Germain C, Anjuère F. LLT1-CD161 Interaction in Cancer: Promises and Challenges. Front Immunol 2022; 13:847576. [PMID: 35185935 PMCID: PMC8854185 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.847576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of immune checkpoint therapy in cancer has changed our way of thinking, promoting the design of future cancer treatments that places the immune system at the center stage. The knowledge gained on immune regulation and tolerance helped the identification of promising new clinical immune targets. Among them, the lectin-like transcript 1 (LLT1) is the ligand of CD161 (NKR-P1A) receptor expressed on natural killer cells and T cells. LLT1/CD161 interaction modulates immune responses but the exact nature of the signals delivered is still partially resolved. Investigation on the role of LLT1/CD161 interaction has been hampered by the lack of functional homologues in animal models. Also, some studies have been misled by the use of non-specific reagents. Recent studies and meta-analyses of single cell data are bringing new insights into the function of LLT1 and CD161 in human pathology and notably in cancer. The advances made on the characterization of the tumor microenvironment prompt us to integrate LLT1/CD161 interaction into the equation. This review recapitulates the key findings on the expression profile of LLT1 and CD161, their regulation, the role of their interaction in cancer development, and the relevance of targeting LLT1/CD161 interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronique M. Braud
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
- *Correspondence: Veronique M. Braud,
| | - Aïda Meghraoui-Kheddar
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
| | - Roxane Elaldi
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
| | - Luciana Petti
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
| | | | - Fabienne Anjuère
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
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HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer: epidemiology, molecular biology and clinical management. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022; 19:306-327. [PMID: 35105976 PMCID: PMC8805140 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-022-00603-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 129.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive (HPV+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has one of the most rapidly increasing incidences of any cancer in high-income countries. The most recent (8th) edition of the UICC/AJCC staging system separates HPV+ OPSCC from its HPV-negative (HPV−) counterpart to account for the improved prognosis seen in the former. Indeed, owing to its improved prognosis and greater prevalence in younger individuals, numerous ongoing trials are examining the potential for treatment de-intensification as a means to improve quality of life while maintaining acceptable survival outcomes. In addition, owing to the distinct biology of HPV+ OPSCCs, targeted therapies and immunotherapies have become an area of particular interest. Importantly, OPSCC is often detected at an advanced stage owing to a lack of symptoms in the early stages; therefore, a need exists to identify and validate possible diagnostic biomarkers to aid in earlier detection. In this Review, we provide a summary of the epidemiology, molecular biology and clinical management of HPV+ OPSCC in an effort to highlight important advances in the field. Ultimately, a need exists for improved understanding of the molecular basis and clinical course of this disease to guide efforts towards early detection and precision care, and to improve patient outcomes. The incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is increasing rapidly in most developed countries. In this Review, the authors provide an overview of the epidemiology, molecular biology and treatment of HPV-positive OPSCC, including discussions of the role of treatment de-escalation and emerging novel therapies. The incidence of human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal cancer (HPV+ OPSCC) is expected to continue to rise over the coming decades until the benefits of gender-neutral prophylactic HPV vaccination begin to become manifest. The incidence of HPV+ OPSCC appears to be highest in high-income countries, although more epidemiological data are needed from low- and middle-income countries, in which HPV vaccination coverage remains low. The substantially better prognosis of patients with HPV+ OPSCC compared to those with HPV– OPSCC has been recognized in the American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM8 staging guidelines, which recommend stratification by HPV status to improve staging. The molecular biology and genomic features of HPV+ OPSCC are similar to those of other HPV-associated malignancies, with HPV oncogenes (E6 and E7) acting as key drivers of pathogenesis. Treatment de-intensification is being pursued in clinical trials, although identifying the ~15% of patients with HPV+ OPSCC who have recurrent disease, and who therefore require more intensive treatment, remains a key challenge.
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Abdulrahman Z, Santegoets SJ, Sturm G, Charoentong P, Ijsselsteijn ME, Somarakis A, Höllt T, Finotello F, Trajanoski Z, van Egmond SL, Mustafa DAM, Welters MJP, de Miranda NFCC, van der Burg SH. Tumor-specific T cells support chemokine-driven spatial organization of intratumoral immune microaggregates needed for long survival. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004346. [PMID: 35217577 PMCID: PMC8883276 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The composition of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) associated with good prognosis generally also predicts the success of immunotherapy, and both entail the presence of pre-existing tumor-specific T cells. Here, the blueprint of the TIME associated with such an ongoing tumor-specific T-cell response was dissected in a unique prospective oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) cohort, in which tumor-specific tumor-infiltrating T cells were detected (immune responsiveness (IR+)) or not (lack of immune responsiveness (IR-)). METHODS A comprehensive multimodal, high-dimensional strategy was applied to dissect the TIME of treatment-naive IR+ and IR- OPSCC tissue, including bulk RNA sequencing (NanoString), imaging mass cytometry (Hyperion) for phenotyping and spatial interaction analyses of immune cells, and combined single-cell gene expression profiling and T-cell receptor (TCR) sequencing (single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq)) to characterize the transcriptional states of clonally expanded tumor-infiltrating T cells. RESULTS IR+ patients had an excellent survival during >10 years follow-up. The tumors of IR+ patients expressed higher levels of genes strongly related to interferon gamma signaling, T-cell activation, TCR signaling, and mononuclear cell differentiation, as well as genes involved in several immune signaling pathways, than IR- patients. The top differently overexpressed genes included CXCL12 and LTB, involved in ectopic lymphoid structure development. Moreover, scRNAseq not only revealed that CD4+ T cells were the main producers of LTB but also identified a subset of clonally expanded CD8+ T cells, dominantly present in IR+ tumors, which secreted the T cell and dendritic cell (DC) attracting chemokine CCL4. Indeed, immune cell infiltration in IR+ tumors is stronger, highly coordinated, and has a distinct spatial phenotypical signature characterized by intratumoral microaggregates of CD8+CD103+ and CD4+ T cells with DCs. In contrast, the IR- TIME comprised spatial interactions between lymphocytes and various immunosuppressive myeloid cell populations. The impact of these chemokines on local immunity and clinical outcome was confirmed in an independent The Cancer Genome Atlas OPSCC cohort. CONCLUSION The production of lymphoid cell attracting and organizing chemokines by tumor-specific T cells in IR+ tumors constitutes a positive feedback loop to sustain the formation of the DC-T-cell microaggregates and identifies patients with excellent survival after standard therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziena Abdulrahman
- Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia J Santegoets
- Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gregor Sturm
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Pornpimol Charoentong
- Medical Oncology and National Center for Tumor diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Höllt
- Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Francesca Finotello
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | | | - Dana A M Mustafa
- Pathology, Tumor Immuno-Pathology Laboratory, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marij J P Welters
- Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Systematic Pan-Cancer Analysis of KLRB1 with Prognostic Value and Immunological Activity across Human Tumors. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:5254911. [PMID: 35028320 PMCID: PMC8749375 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5254911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction KLRB1 is a gene encoding CD161 expressed in NK cells and some T cell subsets. At present, KLRB1 is believed to affect tumorigenesis and development by regulating the cytotoxicity of NK cells in several cancers. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews of KLRB1 in a variety of malignancies. Objectives Hence, our research is aimed at providing a relatively comprehensive understanding of the role of KLRB1 in different types of cancer, paving the way for further research on the molecular mechanism and immunotherapy potential of KLRB1. Methods In this study, we used relevant public databases, including TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas), GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus), CCLE (Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia), GTEx (Genotype Tissue-Expression), and HPA (Human Protein Atlas), to perform a pan-cancer analysis of KLRB1 across 33 types of cancer. We explored the potential molecular mechanism of KLRB1 in clinical prognosis and tumor immunity from the aspects of gene expression, survival status, clinical phenotype, immune infiltration, immunotherapy response, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity. Results KLRB1 was downregulated in 13 cancers while upregulated in kidney cancer. Patients with high expression of KLRB1 have a better prognosis in most types of cancer. Moreover, the KLRB1 expression level is related to TMB and MSI and related to various immune signatures of tumor. The expression of KLRB1 can affect tumor immune cell infiltration. KLRB1 expression level can also affect the sensitivity of chemotherapy drugs. Conclusions KLRB1 may be a prognostic and immunological biomarker across tumors. At the same time, KLRB1 expression can reflect the sensitivity of cancer patients to chemotherapy drugs. KLRB1 may become a new target for immunotherapy.
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45
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Gameiro SF, Evans AM, Mymryk JS. The tumor immune microenvironments of HPV + and HPV - head and neck cancers. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1539. [PMID: 35030304 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the etiological agent of a significant, and increasing, fraction of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC)-a heterogenous group of malignancies in the head and neck region. HPV infection accounts for approximately 25% of all cases, with the remainder typically caused by smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These distinct etiologies lead to profound clinical and immunological differences between HPV-positive (HPV+ ) and HPV-negative (HPV- ) HNSCC, likely related to the expression of exogenous viral antigens in the HPV+ subtype. Specifically, HPV+ HNSCC patients generally exhibit better treatment response compared to those with HPV- disease, leading to a more favorable prognosis, with lower recurrence rate, and longer overall survival time. Importantly, a plethora of studies have illustrated that the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of HPV+ HNSCC has a strikingly distinct immune composition to that of its HPV- counterpart. The HPV+ TIME is characterized as being immunologically "hot," with more immune infiltration, higher levels of T-cell activation, and higher levels of immunoregulation compared to the more immunologically "cold" HPV- TIME. In general, cancers with an immune "hot" TIME exhibit better treatment response and superior clinical outcomes in comparison to their immune "cold" counterparts. Indeed, this phenomenon has also been observed in HPV+ HNSCC patients, highlighting the critical role of the TIME in influencing prognosis, and further validating the use of cancer therapies that capitalize on the mobilization and/or modulation of the TIME. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven F Gameiro
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andris M Evans
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joe S Mymryk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Oncology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,London Regional Cancer Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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46
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Duurland CL, Santegoets SJ, Abdulrahman Z, Loof NM, Sturm G, Wesselink TH, Arens R, Boekestijn S, Ehsan I, van Poelgeest MIE, Finotello F, Hackl H, Trajanoski Z, Ten Dijke P, Braud VM, Welters MJP, van der Burg SH. CD161 expression and regulation defines rapidly responding effector CD4+ T cells associated with improved survival in HPV16-associated tumors. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e003995. [PMID: 35039463 PMCID: PMC8765066 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expression of killer cell lectin-like receptor B1 (KLRB1), the gene encoding the cell surface molecule CD161, is associated with favorable prognosis in many cancers. CD161 is expressed by several lymphocyte populations, but its role and regulation on tumor-specific CD4+ T cells is unknown. METHODS We examined the clinical impact of CD4+CD161+ T cells in human papillomavirus (HPV)16+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), analyzed their contribution in a cohort of therapeutically vaccinated patients and used HPV16-specific CD4+CD161+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and T cell clones for in-depth mechanistic studies. RESULTS Central and effector memory CD4+ T cells express CD161, but only CD4+CD161+ effector memory T cells (Tem) are associated with improved survival in OPSCC. Therapeutic vaccination activates and expands type 1 cytokine-producing CD4+CD161+ effector T cells. The expression of CD161 is dynamic and follows a pattern opposite of the checkpoint molecules PD1 and CD39. CD161 did not function as an immune checkpoint molecule as demonstrated using multiple experimental approaches using antibodies to block CD161 and gene editing to knockout CD161 expression. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed KLRB1 expression in many T cell clusters suggesting differences in their activation. Indeed, CD4+CD161+ effector cells specifically expressed the transcriptional transactivator SOX4, known to enhance T cell receptor (TCR) signaling via CD3ε. Consistent with this observation, CD4+CD161+ cells respond more vigorously to limiting amounts of cognate antigen in presence of interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-18 compared to their CD161- counterparts. The expression of CD161/KLRB1 and SOX4 was downregulated upon TCR stimulation and this effect was boosted by transforming growth factor (TGF)β1. CONCLUSION High levels of CD4+CD161+ Tem are associated with improved survival and our data show that CD161 is dynamically regulated by cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors. CD161 expressing CD4+ T cells rapidly respond to suboptimal antigen stimulation suggesting that CD161, similar to SOX4, is involved in the amplification of TCR signals in CD4+ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal L Duurland
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia J Santegoets
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ziena Abdulrahman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nikki M Loof
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gregor Sturm
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Tom H Wesselink
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ramon Arens
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Boekestijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ilina Ehsan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Francesca Finotello
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Digital Science Center (DiSC), University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hubert Hackl
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Zlatko Trajanoski
- Biocenter, Institute of Bioinformatics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Veronique M Braud
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université Côte d'Azur, UMR7275, 06560 Valbonne, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | - Marij J P Welters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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47
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Crane J, Shi Q, Xi Y, Lai J, Pham K, Wang H. Emerging Trends in the Pathological Research of Human Papillomavirus-positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL PATHOLOGY 2022; 2:31-36. [PMID: 36275841 PMCID: PMC9585478 DOI: 10.14218/jctp.2022.00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs) have shown an alarming rate of increase in incidence over the past several decades, markedly in men. In the United States, transcriptionally-active human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV 16, has become the highest contributive agent of OPSCCs, affecting approximately 16,000 people a year. Compared to patients with HPV-negative OPSCCs, patients with HPV-positive OPSCCs exhibit better health responses to chemoradiotherapy and an overall increase in long-term survival. Despite promising treatment options, many OPSCCs are discovered at an advanced stage, and ~20% of cases will recur after definitive treatment. Therefore, extensive research is ongoing to identify new targets for precision treatment and to stratify tumor prognosis. The aim of this review is to capture the most updated research on HPV-positive OPSCCs, emphasizing their relevance as potential new targets for precision medicine and survival prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Crane
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Yibo Xi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Kien Pham
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - He Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Correspondence to: He Wang, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA. Tel: +1-203-214-2786, Fax: +1-203-214-2764,
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48
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Patient derived ex vivo tissue slice cultures demonstrate a profound DNA double-strand break repair defect in HPV-positive oropharyngeal head and neck cancer. Radiother Oncol 2022; 168:138-146. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2022.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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49
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Hung TKW, Ho AL, Pfister DG. Therapeutic strategies for systemic therapies of human papillomavirus-related oropharyngeal cancer. J Surg Oncol 2021; 124:952-961. [PMID: 34585389 PMCID: PMC8500927 DOI: 10.1002/jso.26688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) and its molecular basis continues to evolve and produce important insights into customized therapeutic strategies. Novel therapeutics exploiting HPV-related targets are being evaluated in the incurable setting, while the favorable prognosis of locoregionally advanced disease has stimulated investigation into de-escalation strategies. There is much opportunity for better personalization of standard therapy according to HPV status. This review discusses both current and investigational therapeutic strategies for HPV-related OPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony K W Hung
- From the Section of Head and Neck Oncology, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alan L Ho
- From the Section of Head and Neck Oncology, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - David G Pfister
- From the Section of Head and Neck Oncology, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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50
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Jimenez DG, Sobti A, Askmyr D, Sakellariou C, Santos SC, Swoboda S, Forslund O, Greiff L, Lindstedt M. Tonsillar Cancer with High CD8 + T-Cell Infiltration Features Increased Levels of Dendritic Cells and Transcriptional Regulation Associated with an Inflamed Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5341. [PMID: 34771506 PMCID: PMC8582523 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main causal agent of tonsillar cancer (TC) and HPV+ TC has a favorable prognosis compared to HPV- disease. In this study, we examined aspects of the tumor microenvironment of TC, focusing on T-cells, dendritic cells (DC), and macrophages. Fresh biopsies of TC and the contralateral healthy tonsil (HT) were obtained from 20 patients, analyzed by multiparameter flow cytometry, and assessed against a detailed HPV-status. Additionally, RNA-sequencing data from 38 TC samples available in the public database, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), were explored, focusing on the same leukocyte populations. HPV+ TC featured increased levels of CD8+ T-cells and antigen-presenting cells (cf. HPV- TC and HT, respectively). In HPV+ TC, CD8+ T-cell frequencies correlated to DC levels independently of tumor stage, HPV 16 copy number, and E7 oncogene expression as well as frequencies of other leukocytes. Similarly, RNA sequencing data were explored by dividing the HPV+ TCs according to predefined CD8+ T-cell scores in silico. Higher levels of genes expressed by antigen-presenting cells and effector T-cells, such as immune checkpoints and cytokines, were detected in the CD8HIGH HPV+ TC samples (cf. CD8LOW HPV+ TC). In conclusion, CD8HIGH HPV+ TC displays a unique inflammatory profile associated with increased effector T-cell functions and the presence of antigen-presenting cells in the tumor microenvironment. Further studies are warranted to assess if this information can be used on an individual basis to aid in prognosis and treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gomez Jimenez
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, 223 81 Lund, Sweden; (D.G.J.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (S.C.S.)
| | - Aastha Sobti
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, 223 81 Lund, Sweden; (D.G.J.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (S.C.S.)
| | - David Askmyr
- Department of ORL, Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden; (D.A.); (S.S.); (L.G.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christina Sakellariou
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, 223 81 Lund, Sweden; (D.G.J.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (S.C.S.)
| | - Sofia Carreira Santos
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, 223 81 Lund, Sweden; (D.G.J.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (S.C.S.)
| | - Sabine Swoboda
- Department of ORL, Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden; (D.A.); (S.S.); (L.G.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ola Forslund
- Department of Microbiology, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Lennart Greiff
- Department of ORL, Head & Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden; (D.A.); (S.S.); (L.G.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Lindstedt
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, 223 81 Lund, Sweden; (D.G.J.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (S.C.S.)
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