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Dagar G, Gupta A, Shankar A, Chauhan R, Macha MA, Bhat AA, Das D, Goyal R, Bhoriwal S, Pandita RK, Prasad CP, Sarkar PS, Pandita TK, Singh M. The future of cancer treatment: combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1409300. [PMID: 39044839 PMCID: PMC11263218 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1409300] [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: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) and immunotherapy (IT) are the powerful tools for cancer treatment which act through the stimulation of immune response, and evidence suggest that combinatorial actions of these therapies may augment each other's beneficial effect through complex synergistic mechanisms. These molecular strategies are designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells by either directly or indirectly inducing DNA damage. However, when cells detect DNA damage, they activate a range of signalling pathways known as the DNA damage response (DDR) to repair. Strategies are being developed to interfere with the DDR pathways in cancer cells to ensure their damage-induced degeneration. The stability of a cell's genetic material is largely dependent on the efficacy of DNA repair and therefore, an in-depth understanding of DNA damages and repair mechanism(s) in cancer cells is important to develop a promising therapeutic strategies for ensuring the efficacy of damage-induced tumor cell death. In recent years, a wide range of small molecule drugs have been developed which are currently being employed to combat the DNA repair deficiencies associated with tumor cells. Sequential or concurrent use of these two modalities significantly enhances the anti-tumor response, however with a concurrent probability of increased incidence of symptomatic adverse effects. With advent of newer IT agents, and administration of higher doses of radiation per fraction, such effects are more difficult to predict owing to the paucity of randomized trial data. It is well established that anti cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), anti- Programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1), anti-Programmed cell death one ligand 1 (PD-L1) can be safely administered with RT and many studies have demonstrated survival benefit with such combination for patients with metastatic malignancy. However, the biology of radioimmunotherapy (RT/IT) is still an open area where research need to be focused to determine optimum dosage specially the interaction of the RT/IT pathways to determine optimum dosing schedule. In the current article we have summarised the possible intracellular immunological events that might be triggered when RT and IT modalities are combined with the DDR antagonists and highlighted present clinical practices, outcome, and toxicity profile of this novel treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Dagar
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashna Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Abhishek Shankar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Chauhan
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Muzafar A. Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Pulwama, Jammu And Kashmir, India
| | - Ajaz A. Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dayasagar Das
- Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Rajeev Goyal
- Department of Biochemistry, Lady Harding Medical College, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandeep Bhoriwal
- Department of Surgical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Raj K. Pandita
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A and M College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Chandra Prakash Prasad
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Partha S. Sarkar
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Tej K. Pandita
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A and M College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Sun A, Xing Z, Lv R, Niu P, Zhao B, Ma S, Li H. Research progress of immunotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer. Med Oncol 2024; 41:133. [PMID: 38703250 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02375-9] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck cancer accounts for about one-fifth of all malignant tumors, and the incidence is increasing year by year. The overall mortality rate was high and the 5-year survival rate was low. At present, the combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is the main treatment in clinical practice, but the treatment of recurrent or metastatic advanced head and neck cancer is still a challenge. With the rise of immunotherapy, more and more studies on immune checkpoint inhibitors have been conducted. This review summarizes the mechanism, clinical application and safety of immunotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchi Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China
- Anhui Engineering Technology Research Center of Biochemical Pharmaceutical, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030, Anhui, China
| | - Zhiwei Xing
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China
| | - Rongrong Lv
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China
| | - Pengyuan Niu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China
| | - Bao Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China
- Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, 230071, Anhui, China
| | - Shiyin Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China.
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, China.
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Sankar AP, Cho HM, Shin SU, Sneh T, Ramakrishnan S, Elledge C, Zhang Y, Das R, Gil-Henn H, Rosenblatt JD. Antibody-Drug Conjugate αEGFR-E-P125A Reduces Triple-negative Breast Cancer Vasculogenic Mimicry, Motility, and Metastasis through Inhibition of EGFR, Integrin, and FAK/STAT3 Signaling. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:738-756. [PMID: 38315147 PMCID: PMC10926898 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Primary tumor growth and metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) require supporting vasculature, which develop through a combination of endothelial angiogenesis and vasculogenic mimicry (VM), a process associated with aggressive metastatic behavior in which vascular-like structures are lined by tumor cells. We developed αEGFR-E-P125A, an antibody-endostatin fusion protein that delivers a dimeric, mutant endostatin (E-P125A) payload that inhibits TNBC angiogenesis and VM in vitro and in vivo. To characterize the mechanisms associated with induction and inhibition of VM, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of MDA-MB-231-4175 TNBC cells grown in a monolayer (two-dimensional) was compared with cells plated on Matrigel undergoing VM [three-dimensional (3D)]. We then compared RNA-seq between TNBC cells in 3D and cells in 3D with VM inhibited by αEGFR-E-P125A (EGFR-E-P125A). Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that VM induction activated the IL6-JAK-STAT3 and angiogenesis pathways, which were downregulated by αEGFR-E-P125A treatment.Correlative analysis of the phosphoproteome demonstrated decreased EGFR phosphorylation at Y1069, along with decreased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase Y397 and STAT3 Y705 sites downstream of α5β1 integrin. Suppression of phosphorylation events downstream of EGFR and α5β1 integrin demonstrated that αEGFR-E-P125A interferes with ligand-receptor activation, inhibits VM, and overcomes oncogenic signaling associated with EGFR and α5β1 integrin cross-talk. In vivo, αEGFR-E-P125A treatment decreased primary tumor growth and VM, reduced lung metastasis, and confirmed the inhibition of signaling events observed in vitro. Simultaneous inhibition of EGFR and α5β1 integrin signaling by αEGFR-E-P125A is a promising strategy for the inhibition of VM, tumor growth, motility, and metastasis in TNBC and other EGFR-overexpressing tumors. SIGNIFICANCE αEGFR-E-P125A reduces VM, angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis by inhibiting EGFR and α5β1 integrin signaling, and is a promising therapeutic agent for TNBC treatment, used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita P. Sankar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Hyun-Mi Cho
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Seung-Uon Shin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Tal Sneh
- The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Sundaram Ramakrishnan
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
- Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Christian Elledge
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
| | - Rathin Das
- Synergys Biotherapeutics, Inc., Alamo, California
| | - Hava Gil-Henn
- The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Joseph D. Rosenblatt
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida
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Xing J, Zhang J, Wang J. The Immune Regulatory Role of Adenosine in the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14928. [PMID: 37834375 PMCID: PMC10573203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914928] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenosine, an immunosuppressive metabolite, is produced by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) released from dying or stressed cells and is found at high levels in the tumor microenvironment of most solid tumors. It mediates pro-tumor activities by inducing tumor cell proliferation, migration or invasion, tumor tissue angiogenesis, and chemoresistance. In addition, adenosine plays an important role in regulating anti-tumor immune responses and facilitating tumor immune escape. Adenosine receptors are broadly expressed by tumor-infiltrated immune cells, including suppressive tumor-associated macrophages and CD4+ regulatory T cells, as well as effector CD4+ T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Therefore, adenosine is indispensable in down-regulating anti-tumor immune responses in the tumor microenvironment and contributes to tumor progression. This review describes the current progress on the role of adenosine/adenosine receptor pathway in regulating the tumor-infiltrating immune cells that contribute to tumor immune evasion and aims to provide insights into adenosine-targeted tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianlei Xing
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 100001, China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jinyan Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 100001, China
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Ngamphaiboon N, Chairoungdua A, Dajsakdipon T, Jiarpinitnun C. Evolving role of novel radiosensitizers and immune checkpoint inhibitors in (chemo)radiotherapy of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Oncol 2023; 145:106520. [PMID: 37467684 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) remains the standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC), based on numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrating that CRT improved locoregional control and overall survival. Achieving locoregional control is a crucial outcome for the treatment of HNSCC, as it directly affects patient quality of life and survival. Cisplatin is the recommended standard-of-care radiosensitizing agent for LA-HNSCC patients undergoing CRT, whereas cetuximab-radiotherapy is reserved for cisplatin-ineligible patients. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown promise in the treatment of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC. However, the combination of ICIs with standard-of-care radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in LA-HNSCC has not demonstrated significant improvement in survivals. Over the past few decades, significant advancements in radiotherapy techniques have allowed for more precise and effective radiation delivery while minimizing toxicity to surrounding normal tissues. These advances have led to improved treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with LA-HNSCC. Despite these advancements, the development of novel radiosensitizing agents remains an unmet need. This review discusses the mechanism of radiotherapy and its impact on the immune system. We summarize the latest clinical development of novel radiosensitizing agents, such as SMAC mimetics, DDR pathway inhibitors, and CDK4/6 inhibitor. We also elucidate the emerging evidence of combining ICIs with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in curative settings for LA-HNSCC, using both concurrent and sequential approaches. Lastly, we discuss the future direction of systemic therapy in combination with radiotherapy in treatment for LA-HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuttapong Ngamphaiboon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Arthit Chairoungdua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Toxicology Graduate Program, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Excellent Center for Drug Discovery (ECDD), Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanate Dajsakdipon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chuleeporn Jiarpinitnun
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Wei C, Lan X, Qiu M, Cui R, Fu Q, Shinge SAU, Muluh TA, Jiang O. Expanding the role of combined immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 2023; 26:372. [PMID: 37965160 PMCID: PMC10641411 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13958] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become one of the most promising approaches in tumor therapy, and there are numerous associated clinical trials in China. As an immunosuppressive tumor, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) carries a high mutation burden, making immune checkpoint inhibitors promising candidates in this field due to their unique mechanism of action. The present review outlines a comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer treatment approach and elaborates on how combining immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy guidelines could enhance clinical efficacy in patients with HNSCC. Furthermore, the present review explores the immunology of HNSCC, current immunotherapeutic strategies to enhance antitumor activity, ongoing clinical trials and the future direction of the current immune landscape in HNSCC. Advanced-stage HNSCC presents with a poor prognosis, low survival rates and minimal improvement in patient survival trends over time. Understanding the potential of immunotherapy and ways to combine it with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy confers good prospects for the management of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive HNSCC, as well as other HPV-positive malignancies. Understanding the immune system and its effect on HNSCC progression and metastasis will help to uncover novel biomarkers for the selection of patients and to enhance the efficacy of treatments. Further research on why current immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted drugs are only effective for some patients in the clinic is needed; therefore, further research is required to improve the overall survival of affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wei
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojun Lan
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Maona Qiu
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Ran Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Qiuxia Fu
- Department of General Medicine, The People's Hospital of Luzhou City, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Shafiu A. Umar Shinge
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Tobias Achu Muluh
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Ou Jiang
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
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Silva JPN, Pinto B, Monteiro L, Silva PMA, Bousbaa H. Combination Therapy as a Promising Way to Fight Oral Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1653. [PMID: 37376101 PMCID: PMC10301495 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer is a highly aggressive tumor with invasive properties that can lead to metastasis and high mortality rates. Conventional treatment strategies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, alone or in combination, are associated with significant side effects. Currently, combination therapy has become the standard practice for the treatment of locally advanced oral cancer, emerging as an effective approach in improving outcomes. In this review, we present an in-depth analysis of the current advancements in combination therapies for oral cancer. The review explores the current therapeutic options and highlights the limitations of monotherapy approaches. It then focuses on combinatorial approaches that target microtubules, as well as various signaling pathway components implicated in oral cancer progression, namely, DNA repair players, the epidermal growth factor receptor, cyclin-dependent kinases, epigenetic readers, and immune checkpoint proteins. The review discusses the rationale behind combining different agents and examines the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of these combinations, emphasizing their ability to enhance treatment response and overcome drug resistance. Challenges and limitations associated with combination therapy are discussed, including potential toxicity and the need for personalized treatment approaches. A future perspective is also provided to highlight the existing challenges and possible resolutions toward the clinical translation of current oral cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- João P. N. Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Bárbara Pinto
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Luís Monteiro
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Patrícia M. A. Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
- TOXRUN—Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Hassan Bousbaa
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
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Zheng S, Feng Y, Li C, Zhang J, Xie K. Induction Therapy for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Oncol Ther 2023:10.1007/s40487-023-00226-7. [PMID: 36943658 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-023-00226-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The optimal approach to locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LAHNSCC) treatment remains controversial. For non-resectable LAHNSCC, the clinical interest of induction chemotherapy followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) or radiotherapy has been questioned. With the approval of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for this disease, treatment options have become more complex. Although new trial data have appeared every year, the results are still inconclusive. In this review, we provide readers with information on new strategies for LAHNSCC induction therapy, which will facilitate evidence-based decision making in LAHNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 32 West 2nd Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yumei Feng
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 32 West 2nd Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chan Li
- Department of Oncology, Peoples Hospital of Xinjin, Chengdu, 611430, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 32 West 2nd Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ke Xie
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 32 West 2nd Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China.
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Palumbo C, Benvenuto M, Focaccetti C, Albonici L, Cifaldi L, Rufini A, Nardozi D, Angiolini V, Bei A, Masuelli L, Bei R. Recent findings on the impact of ErbB receptors status on prognosis and therapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1066021. [PMID: 36817764 PMCID: PMC9932042 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1066021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer type, has often an aggressive course and is poorly responsive to current therapeutic approaches, so that 5-year survival rates for patients diagnosed with advanced disease is lower than 50%. The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) has emerged as an established oncogene in HNSCC. Indeed, although HNSCCs are a heterogeneous group of cancers which differ for histological, molecular and clinical features, EGFR is overexpressed or mutated in a percentage of cases up to about 90%. Moreover, aberrant expression of the other members of the ErbB receptor family, ErbB2, ErbB3 and ErbB4, has also been reported in variable proportions of HNSCCs. Therefore, an increased expression/activity of one or multiple ErbB receptors is found in the vast majority of patients with HNSCC. While aberrant ErbB signaling has long been known to play a critical role in tumor growth, angiogenesis, invasion, metastatization and resistance to therapy, more recent evidence has revealed its impact on other features of cancer cells' biology, such as the ability to evade antitumor immunity. In this paper we will review recent findings on how ErbB receptors expression and activity, including that associated with non-canonical signaling mechanisms, impacts on prognosis and therapy of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Palumbo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy,Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Focaccetti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Albonici
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Cifaldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy,Academic Department of Pediatrics (DPUO), Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Rufini
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy,Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Nardozi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Angiolini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Bei
- Medical School, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy,*Correspondence: Roberto Bei,
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Cai XJ, Zhang HY, Zhang JY, Li TJ. Bibliometric analysis of immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. J Dent Sci 2023; 18:872-882. [PMID: 37021217 PMCID: PMC10068494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/purpose Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a serious disease endangering the health of patients, and the application of immunotherapy in HNSCC is gradually emerging. However, there is no bibliometric analysis in this research field. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the knowledge structure and research hotspots of immunotherapy for HNSCC. Materials and methods Publications related to immunotherapy for HNSCC from 2002 to 2021 were searched in the Web of Science Core Collection database. The software VOSviewers, CiteSpace, and the R package 'bibliometrix' were used to perform this bibliometric analysis. Results A total of 1297 publications were from 63 countries, led by the USA and China. The number of publications related to immunotherapy for HNSCC has increased rapidly from 2015. University of Pittsburgh and The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center are the main research institutions. Oral Oncology is the most popular journal in this field, and the Journal of Clinical Oncology is the most highly co-cited journal. These publications were from 7569 authors, with Robert L. Ferris publishing the most papers and being the most frequently co-cited. Clinical trials related to nivolumab and pembrolizumab have attracted wide attention. 'Immune checkpoint inhibitors', 'human papillomavirus', 'programmed cell death-ligand 1', and 'programmed cell death protein 1' are the main keywords of emerging research hotspots. Conclusion This study presents a comprehensive summary of the trends and development of immunotherapy for HNSCC, identifies the research frontier and hotspot direction, and could provide a valuable reference for researchers in this field.
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Chakraborty R, Darido C, Liu F, Maselko M, Ranganathan S. Head and Neck Cancer Immunotherapy: Molecular Biological Aspects of Preclinical and Clinical Research. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030852. [PMID: 36765809 PMCID: PMC9913716 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Breakthrough research in the field of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the development of a human papilloma virus vaccine triggered a plethora of research in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Both had significant effects on the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The advent of preclinical models and multidisciplinary approaches including bioinformatics, genetic engineering, clinical oncology, and immunology helped in the development of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. Here, we discuss different immunotherapies such as adoptive T-cell transfer, immune checkpoint inhibitors, interleukins, and cancer vaccines for the treatment of head and neck cancer. This review showcases the intrinsic relation between the understanding and implementation of basic biology and clinical practice. We also address potential limitations of each immunotherapy approach and the advantages of personalized immunotherapy. Overall, the aim of this review is to encourage further research in the field of immunotherapy for head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajdeep Chakraborty
- Applied Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Charbel Darido
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Fei Liu
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Maciej Maselko
- Applied Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Shoba Ranganathan
- Applied Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
- Correspondence:
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12
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Dong H, Li M, Yang C, Wei W, He X, Cheng G, Wang S. Combination therapy with oncolytic viruses and immune checkpoint inhibitors in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas: an approach of complementary advantages. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:1. [PMID: 36604694 PMCID: PMC9814316 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02846-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common head and neck malignancies. Significant progress has been made in standard therapeutic methods combining surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Nevertheless, the 5-year survival rate remains at 40-50%. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a new strategy for treating head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). Still, the overall response and effective rates are poor, as HNSCCs are 'cold' tumors with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), limiting ICI's beneficial effects. In this case, transforming the tumor suppression microenvironment before using ICIs could be helpful. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) can transform cold tumors into hot tumors, improving the situation. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), oncolytic immunotherapy authorized for advanced melanoma, also showed good safety and antitumor activity in treating head and neck cancer and pancreatic cancer. In combination with pembrolizumab, T-Vec may have more anticancer efficacy than either drug alone. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underpinning OVs and their potential synergism with ICIs could benefit patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Mengli Li
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Chen Yang
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Wei Wei
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Postgraduate Training Base of Jinzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianglei He
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Pathology, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Gang Cheng
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Shibing Wang
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
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13
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Kang JJ, Ko A, Kil SH, Mallen-St Clair J, Shin DS, Wang MB, Srivatsan ES. EGFR pathway targeting drugs in head and neck cancer in the era of immunotherapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188827. [PMID: 36309124 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are cell surface receptors that bind growth factor ligands and initiate cellular signaling. Of the 20 classes of RTKs, 7 classes, I-V, VIII, and X, are linked to head and neck cancers (HNCs). We focus on the first class of RTK, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), as it is the most thoroughly studied class. EGFR overexpression is observed in 20% of tumors, and expression of EGFR variant III is seen in 15% of aggressive chemoradiotherapy resistant HNCs. Currently, the EGFR monoclonal antibody (mAb) cetuximab is the only FDA approved RTK-targeting drug for the treatment of HNCs. Clinical trials have also included EGFR mAbs, with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and small molecule inhibitors targeting the EGFR, MAPK, and mTOR pathways. Additionally, Immunotherapy has been found to be effective in 15 to 20% of patients with recurrent or metastatic HNC as a monotherapy. Thus, attempts are underway for the combinatorial treatment of immunotherapy and EGFR mAbs to determine if the recruitment of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment can overcome EGFR resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Kang
- Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Albert Ko
- Department of Surgery, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sang Hoon Kil
- Department of Surgery, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jon Mallen-St Clair
- Department of Otolaryngology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Sanghoon Shin
- Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marilene B Wang
- Department of Surgery, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Head and Neck Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eri S Srivatsan
- Department of Surgery, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas are rising in incidence worldwide, and despite the advent of improved surgical and radiation techniques, a substantial proportion of patients have disease recurrence, where systemic therapies are the mainstay of management. Recent advances in systemic therapy include the development of epidermal growth factor receptor- and programmed death 1-targeting drugs, which have produced incremental improvements in disease outcomes. However, for most patients, responses to treatment remain elusive because of primary or acquired resistance. Novel drugs and rational drug combinations need to be tested based on biomarker identification and preclinical science that will ultimately advance outcomes for our patients. This review focuses on efforts untaken for epidermal growth factor receptor targeting in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to date.
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Yu C, Li Q, Zhang Y, Wen ZF, Dong H, Mou Y. Current status and perspective of tumor immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:941750. [PMID: 36092724 PMCID: PMC9458968 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.941750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have a high incidence and mortality rate, and investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies of HNSCC is required for further progress. Immunotherapy is a considerable therapeutic strategy for HNSCC due to its potential to produce a broad and long-lasting antitumor response. However, immune escape, which involves mechanisms including dyregulation of cytokines, perturbation of immune checkpoints, and recruitment of inhibitory cell populations, limit the efficacy of immunotherapy. Currently, multiple immunotherapy strategies for HNSCC have been exploited, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, costimulatory agonists, antigenic vaccines, oncolytic virus therapy, adoptive T cell transfer (ACT), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted therapy. Each of these strategies has unique advantages, and the appropriate application of these immunotherapies in HNSCC treatment has significant value for patients. Therefore, this review comprehensively summarizes the mechanisms of immune escape and the characteristics of different immunotherapy strategies in HNSCC to provide a foundation and consideration for the clinical treatment of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhang Yu
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Fa Wen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Heng Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongbin Mou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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