1
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Klein C, Brinkmann U, Reichert JM, Kontermann RE. The present and future of bispecific antibodies for cancer therapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:301-319. [PMID: 38448606 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00896-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) enable novel mechanisms of action and/or therapeutic applications that cannot be achieved using conventional IgG-based antibodies. Consequently, development of these molecules has garnered substantial interest in the past decade and, as of the end of 2023, 14 bsAbs have been approved: 11 for the treatment of cancer and 3 for non-oncology indications. bsAbs are available in different formats, address different targets and mediate anticancer function via different molecular mechanisms. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in the field of bsAbs for cancer therapy. We focus on bsAbs that are approved or in clinical development, including bsAb-mediated dual modulators of signalling pathways, tumour-targeted receptor agonists, bsAb-drug conjugates, bispecific T cell, natural killer cell and innate immune cell engagers, and bispecific checkpoint inhibitors and co-stimulators. Finally, we provide an outlook into next-generation bsAbs in earlier stages of development, including trispecifics, bsAb prodrugs, bsAbs that induce degradation of tumour targets and bsAbs acting as cytokine mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Klein
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | | | - Roland E Kontermann
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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2
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Zarezadeh Mehrabadi A, Tat M, Ghorbani Alvanegh A, Roozbahani F, Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh H. Revolutionizing cancer treatment: the power of bi- and tri-specific T-cell engagers in oncolytic virotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1343378. [PMID: 38464532 PMCID: PMC10921556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1343378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Bi- or tri-specific T cell engagers (BiTE or TriTE) are recombinant bispecific proteins designed to stimulate T-cell immunity directly, bypassing antigen presentation by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). However, these molecules suffer from limitations such as short biological half-life and poor residence time in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Fortunately, these challenges can be overcome when combined with OVs. Various strategies have been developed, such as encoding secretory BiTEs within OV vectors, resulting in improved targeting and activation of T cells, secretion of key cytokines, and bystander killing of tumor cells. Additionally, oncolytic viruses armed with BiTEs have shown promising outcomes in enhancing major histocompatibility complex I antigen (MHC-I) presentation, T-cell proliferation, activation, and cytotoxicity against tumor cells. These combined approaches address tumor heterogeneity, drug delivery, and T-cell infiltration, offering a comprehensive and effective solution. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Bi- or TriTEs and OVs as promising therapeutic approaches in the field of cancer treatment. We summarize the cutting-edge advancements in oncolytic virotherapy immune-related genetic engineering, focusing on the innovative combination of BiTE or TriTE with OVs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahdi Tat
- Applied Virology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Roozbahani
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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3
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Shikalov A, Koman I, Kogan NM. Targeted Glioma Therapy-Clinical Trials and Future Directions. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:100. [PMID: 38258110 PMCID: PMC10820492 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010100] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of glioma, with a median survival of 14.6 months post-diagnosis. Understanding the molecular profile of such tumors allowed the development of specific targeted therapies toward GBM, with a major role attributed to tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Targeted therapeutics are drugs that work by specific binding to GBM-specific or overexpressed markers on the tumor cellular surface and therefore contain a recognition moiety linked to a cytotoxic agent, which produces an antiproliferative effect. In this review, we have summarized the available information on the targeted therapeutics used in clinical trials of GBM and summarized current obstacles and advances in targeted therapy concerning specific targets present in GBM tumor cells, outlined efficacy endpoints for major classes of investigational drugs, and discussed promising strategies towards an increase in drug efficacy in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalya M. Kogan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Personalized and Translational Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (A.S.); (I.K.)
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4
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Alsajjan R, Mason WP. Bispecific T-Cell Engagers and Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapies in Glioblastoma: An Update. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:8501-8549. [PMID: 37754534 PMCID: PMC10529026 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30090619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. The prognosis is extremely poor even with standard treatment of maximal safe resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Recurrence is inevitable within months, and treatment options are very limited. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CART) and bispecific T-cell engagers (TCEs) are two emerging immunotherapies that can redirect T-cells for tumor-specific killing and have shown remarkable success in hematological malignancies and been under extensive study for application in glioblastoma. While there have been multiple clinical trials showing preliminary evidence of safety and efficacy for CART, bispecific TCEs are still in the early stages of clinical testing, with preclinical studies showing very promising results. However, there are multiple shared challenges that need to be addressed in the future, including the route of delivery, antigen escape, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and toxicity resulting from the limited choice of tumor-specific antigens. Efforts are underway to optimize the design of both these treatments and find the ideal combination therapy to overcome these challenges. In this review, we describe the work that has been performed as well as novel approaches in glioblastoma and in other solid tumors that may be applicable in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roa Alsajjan
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Warren P. Mason
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada
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5
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Yasinjan F, Xing Y, Geng H, Guo R, Yang L, Liu Z, Wang H. Immunotherapy: a promising approach for glioma treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1255611. [PMID: 37744349 PMCID: PMC10512462 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1255611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most prevalent primary malignant brain tumors worldwide, with glioblastoma (GBM) being the most common and aggressive type. Despite two decades of relentless pursuit in exploring novel therapeutic approaches for GBM, there is limited progress in improving patients' survival outcomes. Numerous obstacles impede the effective treatment of GBM, including the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), the blood-brain barrier, and extensive heterogeneity. Despite these challenges, immunotherapies are emerging as a promising avenue that may offer new hope for the treatment of gliomas. There are four main types of immunotherapies for gliomas, immune checkpoint blockades, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies, vaccines, and oncolytic viruses. In addition, gene therapy, bispecific antibody therapy, and combine therapy are also briefly introduced in this review. The significant role of TME in the process of immunotherapies has been emphasized in many studies. Although immunotherapy is a promising treatment for gliomas, enormous effort is required to overcome the existing barriers to its success. Owing to the rapid development and increasing attention paid to immunotherapies for gliomas, this article aims to review the recent advances in immunotherapies for gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feroza Yasinjan
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yang Xing
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huayue Geng
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Guo
- Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ziling Liu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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6
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Tomisch J, Busse V, Rosato F, Makshakova ON, Salavei P, Kittel AS, Gillon E, Lataster L, Imberty A, Meléndez AV, Römer W. A Shiga Toxin B-Subunit-Based Lectibody Boosts T Cell Cytotoxicity towards Gb3-Positive Cancer Cells. Cells 2023; 12:1896. [PMID: 37508560 PMCID: PMC10378424 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141896] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant glycosylation plays a crucial role in tumour progression and invasiveness. Tumour-associated carbohydrate antigens (TACAs) represent a valuable set of targets for immunotherapeutic approaches. The poor immunogenicity of glycan structures, however, requires a more effective and well-directed way of targeting TACAs on the surface of cancer cells than antibodies. The glycosphingolipid globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) is a well-established TACA present in a multitude of cancer types. Its overexpression has been linked to metastasis, invasiveness, and multidrug resistance. In the present study, we propose to use a dimeric fragment of the Shiga toxin B-subunit (StxB) to selectively target Gb3-positive cancer cells in a StxB-scFv UCHT1 lectibody. The lectibody, comprised of a lectin and the UCHT1 antibody fragment, was produced in E. coli and purified via Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. Specificity of the lectibody towards Gb3-positive cancer cell lines and specificity towards the CD3 receptor on T cells, was assessed using flow cytometry. We evaluated the efficacy of the lectibody in redirecting T cell cytotoxicity towards Gb3-overexpressing cancer cells in luciferase-based cytotoxicity in vitro assays. The StxB-scFv UCHT1 lectibody has proven specific for Gb3 and could induce the killing of up to 80% of Gb3-overexpressing cancer cells in haemorrhagic and solid tumours. The lectibody developed in this study, therefore, highlights the potential that lectibodies and lectins in general have for usage in immunotherapeutic approaches to boost the efficacy of established cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Tomisch
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Vincent Busse
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Francesca Rosato
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Olga N Makshakova
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Kazan Institute for Biochemistry and Biophysics, FRC Kazan Scientific Center of RAS, 420111 Kazan, Russia
| | - Pavel Salavei
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Core Facility Signalling Factory & Robotics, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anna-Sophia Kittel
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Emilie Gillon
- CNRS, CERMAV, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Levin Lataster
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anne Imberty
- CNRS, CERMAV, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Ana Valeria Meléndez
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Winfried Römer
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS), University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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7
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Shanshal M, Caimi PF, Adjei AA, Ma WW. T-Cell Engagers in Solid Cancers-Current Landscape and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2824. [PMID: 37345160 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibody treatment initially heralded an era of molecularly targeted therapy in oncology and is now widely applied in modulating anti-cancer immunity by targeting programmed cell receptors (PD-1, PD-L1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and, more recently, lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG3). Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) recently proved to be a valid approach to inducing anti-cancer immunity by directly modifying the host's immune cells. However, such cell-based therapy requires extensive resources such as leukapheresis, ex vivo modification and expansion of cytotoxic T-cells and current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) laboratories and presents significant logistical challenges. Bi-/trispecific antibody technology is a novel pharmaceutical approach to facilitate the engagement of effector immune cells to potentially multiple cancer epitopes, e.g., the recently approved blinatumomab. This opens the opportunity to develop 'off-the-shelf' anti-cancer agents that achieve similar and/or complementary anti-cancer effects as those of modified immune cell therapy. The majority of bi-/trispecific antibodies target the tumor-associated antigens (TAA) located on the extracellular surface of cancer cells. The extracellular antigens represent just a small percentage of known TAAs and are often associated with higher toxicities because some of them are expressed on normal cells (off-target toxicity). In contrast, the targeting of intracellular TAAs such as mutant RAS and TP53 may lead to fewer off-target toxicities while still achieving the desired antitumor efficacy (on-target toxicity). Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the emerging field of bi-/tri-specific T-cell engagers and potential therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wen Wee Ma
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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8
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Park DH, Liaw K, Bhojnagarwala P, Zhu X, Choi J, Ali AR, Bordoloi D, Gary EN, O’Connell RP, Kulkarni A, Guimet D, Smith T, Perales-Puchalt A, Patel A, Weiner DB. Multivalent in vivo delivery of DNA-encoded bispecific T cell engagers effectively controls heterogeneous GBM tumors and mitigates immune escape. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2023; 28:249-263. [PMID: 36915911 PMCID: PMC10006507 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most difficult cancers to treat with a 5-year survival rate less than 5%. An immunotherapeutic vaccine approach targeting GBM-specific antigen, EGFRvIII, previously demonstrated important clinical impact. However, immune escape variants were reported in the trial, suggesting that multivalent approaches targeting GBM-associated antigens may be of importance. Here we focused on multivalent in vivo delivery of synthetic DNA-encoded bispecific T cell engagers (DBTEs) targeting two GBM-associated antigens, EGFRvIII and HER2. We designed and optimized an EGFRvIII-DBTE that induced T cell-mediated cytotoxicity against EGFRvIII-expressing tumor cells. In vivo delivery in a single administration of EGFRvIII-DBTE resulted in durable expression over several months in NSG mice and potent tumor control and clearance in both peripheral and orthotopic animal models of GBM. Next, we combined delivery of EGFRvIII-DBTEs with an HER2-targeting DBTE to treat heterogeneous GBM tumors. In vivo delivery of dual DBTEs targeting these two GBM-associated antigens exhibited enhanced tumor control and clearance in a heterogeneous orthotopic GBM challenge, while treatment with single-target DBTE ultimately allowed for tumor escape. These studies support that combined delivery of DBTEs, targeting both EGFRvIII and HER2, can potentially improve outcomes of GBM immunotherapy, and such multivalent approaches deserve additional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H. Park
- Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kevin Liaw
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Xizhou Zhu
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jihae Choi
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ali R. Ali
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Devivasha Bordoloi
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ebony N. Gary
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryan P. O’Connell
- Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Abhijeet Kulkarni
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Diana Guimet
- Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, USA
| | - Trevor Smith
- Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, USA
| | | | - Ami Patel
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David B. Weiner
- Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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9
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Arvedson T, Bailis JM, Urbig T, Stevens JL. Considerations for design, manufacture, and delivery for effective and safe T-cell engager therapies. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2022; 78:102799. [PMID: 36179408 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
T-cell engager (TCE) molecules provide a targeted immunotherapy approach to treat hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Since the approval of the CD19-targeted BiTE® (bispecific T-cell engager) molecule blinatumomab, multiple TCE molecules against different targets have been developed in several tumor types, with the approval of three additional TCE molecules in 2022. Some of the initial challenges, such as the need for continuous intravenous administration and low productivity, have been addressed in subsequent iterations of the platform by advancing half-life extended, Fc-based molecules. As clinical data from these molecules emerge, additional optimization of formats and manufacturability will be necessary. Ongoing efforts are focused on further improving TCE efficacy, safety, and convenience of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Arvedson
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julie M Bailis
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
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10
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Hintzen G, Dulat HJ, Rajkovic E. Engaging innate immunity for targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor: Therapeutic options leveraging innate immunity versus adaptive immunity versus inhibition of signaling. Front Oncol 2022; 12:892212. [PMID: 36185288 PMCID: PMC9518002 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.892212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key player in the normal tissue physiology and the pathology of cancer. Therapeutic approaches have now been developed to target oncogenic genetic aberrations of EGFR, found in a subset of tumors, and to take advantage of overexpression of EGFR in tumors. The development of small-molecule inhibitors and anti-EGFR antibodies targeting EGFR activation have resulted in effective but limited treatment options for patients with mutated or wild-type EGFR-expressing cancers, while therapeutic approaches that deploy effectors of the adaptive or innate immune system are still undergoing development. This review discusses EGFR-targeting therapies acting through distinct molecular mechanisms to destroy EGFR-expressing cancer cells. The focus is on the successes and limitations of therapies targeting the activation of EGFR versus those that exploit the cytotoxic T cells and innate immune cells to target EGFR-expressing cancer cells. Moreover, we discuss alternative approaches that may have the potential to overcome limitations of current therapies; in particular the innate cell engagers are discussed. Furthermore, this review highlights the potential to combine innate cell engagers with immunotherapies, to maximize their effectiveness, or with unspecific cell therapies, to convert them into tumor-specific agents.
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11
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In vivo DNA-launched bispecific T cell engager targeting IL-13Rα2 controls tumor growth in an animal model of glioblastoma multiforme. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 26:289-301. [PMID: 36090479 PMCID: PMC9418050 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.07.003] [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: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is an aggressive tumor with poor survival rates. Bispecific T cell engagers (BTEs) against different cancers are in various stages of clinical development. Toxicity resulting from cytokine release syndrome and the short half-life of BTEs, which necessitates continuous infusion, complicating delivery and increasing costs, are major challenges in the field. Here we describe the development of in vivo DNA-launched BTEs (dBTEs) with highly focused targeting of interleukin-13 receptor α2 (IL-13Rα2), a glioblastoma cell-surface target. We developed 4 BTEs targeting 2 epitopes of IL-13Rα2 and studied how heavy-light chain orientation affects BTE function. The dBTEs induced T cell activation, cytokine production, and tumor cytolysis in the presence of IL-13Rα2+ tumor cells, but we observed unique patterns of immune activation. We found a strong correlation between granzyme B secretion and dBTE-induced cytolysis of specific and nonspecific tumors. We down-selected dBTE PB01-forward based on lower cytokine induction profile and highest activation specificity. In vivo, dBTE PB01-forward demonstrated an improved half-life versus intravenous recombinant BTE delivery. In an orthotopic glioblastoma model, dBTE PB01-forward controlled tumor growth, improving animal survival, supporting the hypothesis that the blood-brain barrier does not affect the function of systemically delivered dBTE. Further study of PB01-forward for targeting glioblastoma and other IL-13Rα2+ cancers is warranted.
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12
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Vaquero J, Pavy A, Gonzalez-Sanchez E, Meredith M, Arbelaiz A, Fouassier L. Genetic alterations shaping tumor response to anti-EGFR therapies. Drug Resist Updat 2022; 64:100863. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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13
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Harper T, Sharma A, Kaliyaperumal S, Fajardo F, Hsu K, Liu L, Davies R, Wei YL, Zhan J, Estrada J, Kvesic M, Nahrwold L, Deisting W, Panzer M, Cooke K, Lebrec H, Nolan-Stevaux O. Characterization of an Anti-CD70 Half-Life Extended Bispecific T Cell Engager (HLE-BiTE) and Associated On-Target Toxicity in Cynomolgus Monkeys. Toxicol Sci 2022; 189:32-50. [PMID: 35583313 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bispecific T cell Engager (BiTE®) molecules have great potential to treat cancer. Nevertheless, dependent on the targeted tumor antigen, the mechanism of action that drives efficacy may also contribute to on-target/off-tumor toxicities. In this study we characterize an anti-CD70 half-life extended BiTE molecule (termed N6P) which targets CD70, a TNF family protein detected in several cancers. Firstly, the therapeutic potential of N6P was demonstrated using in vitro cytotoxicity assays and an orthotopic xenograft mouse study resulting in potent killing of CD70+ cancer cells. Next, in vitro characterization demonstrated specificity for CD70 and equipotent activity against human and cynomolgus monkey CD70+ cells. To understand the potential for on-target toxicity, a tissue expression analysis was performed and indicated CD70 is primarily restricted to lymphocytes in normal healthy tissues and cells. Therefore, no on-target toxicity was expected to be associated with N6P. However, in a repeat-dose toxicology study using cynomolgus monkeys, adverse N6P-mediated inflammation was identified in multiple tissues frequently involving the mesothelium and epithelium. Follow-up immunohistochemistry analysis revealed CD70 expression in mesothelial and epithelial cells in some tissues with N6P-mediated injury, but not in control tissues or those without injury. Collectively the data indicates that for some target antigens such as CD70, BiTE molecules may exhibit activity in tissues with very low antigen expression or the antigen may be upregulated under stress enabling molecule activity. This work illustrates how a thorough understanding of expression and upregulation is needed to fully address putative liabilities associated with on-target/off-tumor activity of CD3 bispecific molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tod Harper
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Amy Sharma
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Sarav Kaliyaperumal
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Flordeliza Fajardo
- Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Katie Hsu
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Lily Liu
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Rhian Davies
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Yu-Ling Wei
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Jinghui Zhan
- Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, California, 91320, USA
| | - Juan Estrada
- Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, California, 91320, USA
| | - Majk Kvesic
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Research GmbH, Munich, 81477, Germany
| | - Lisa Nahrwold
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Research GmbH, Munich, 81477, Germany
| | - Wibke Deisting
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Research GmbH, Munich, 81477, Germany
| | - Marc Panzer
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Research GmbH, Munich, 81477, Germany
| | - Keegan Cooke
- Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, California, 91320, USA
| | - Hervé Lebrec
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
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14
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Locally secreted BiTEs complement CAR T cells by enhancing killing of antigen heterogeneous solid tumors. Mol Ther 2022; 30:2537-2553. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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15
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Moon D, Tae N, Park Y, Lee SW, Kim DH. Development of Bispecific Antibody for Cancer Immunotherapy: Focus on T Cell Engaging Antibody. Immune Netw 2022; 22:e4. [PMID: 35291652 PMCID: PMC8901699 DOI: 10.4110/in.2022.22.e4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In the era of immunotherapeutic control of cancers, many advances in biotechnology, especially in Ab engineering, have provided multiple new candidates as therapeutic immuno-oncology modalities. Bispecific Abs (BsAbs) that recognize 2 different antigens in one molecule are promising drug candidates and have inspired an upsurge in research in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Among several BsAbs, T cell engaging BsAb (TCEB), a new class of therapeutic agents designed to simultaneously bind to T cells and tumor cells via tumor cell specific antigens in immunotherapy, is the most promising BsAb. Herein, we are providing an overview of the current status of the development of TCEBs. The diverse formats and characteristics of TCEBs, in addition to the functional mechanisms of BsAbs are discussed. Several aspects of a new TCEB-Blinatumomab-are reviewed, including the current clinical data, challenges of patient treatment, drawbacks regarding toxicities, and resistance of TCEB therapy. Development of the next generation of TCEBs is also discussed in addition to the comparison of TCEB with current chimeric antigen receptor-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dain Moon
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Korea
| | - Nara Tae
- Global/Gangwon Innovative Biologics Regional Leading Research Center (GIB-RLRC), Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Yunji Park
- Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) Biotech Center, POSTECH, Pohang 37673, Korea
| | - Seung-Woo Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Korea
| | - Dae Hee Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
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16
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Pham E, Friedrich M, Aeffner F, Lutteropp M, Mariano NF, Deegen P, Dahlhoff C, Vogel F, Bluemel C, Harrold JM, Brandl C, Grinberg N, Rattel B, Coxon A, Ballis JM. Preclinical Assessment of a MUC12-Targeted BiTE® (Bispecific T Cell Engager) Molecule. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1977-1987. [PMID: 34376583 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
MUC12 is a transmembrane mucin that is highly expressed in >50% of primary and metastatic colorectal tumors. MUC12 is also expressed by normal epithelial cells of the colon and small intestine. While MUC12 localization in normal epithelial cells is restricted to the apical membrane, expression in tumors is depolarized and shows broad membrane localization. The differential localization of MUC12 in tumor cells as compared to normal cells makes it a potential therapeutic target. Here, we evaluated targeting of MUC12 with a BiTE® (bispecific T cell engager) molecule. We generated a panel of proof-of-concept half-life extended (HLE) BiTE molecules that bind MUC12 on tumor cells and CD3 on T cells. We prioritized one molecule based on in vitro activity for further characterization in vivo. In vitro, the MUC12 HLE BiTE molecule mediated T cell redirected lysis of MUC12-expressing cells with half-maximal lysis of 4.4 {plus minus} 0.9 pM to 117 {plus minus} 78 pM. In an exploratory cynomolgus monkey toxicology study, the MUC12 HLE BiTE molecule administered at 200 µg/kg with a step dose to 1000 µg/kg was tolerated with minimal clinical observations. However, higher doses were not tolerated, and there was evidence of damage in the gastrointestinal tract, suggesting dose levels projected to be required for antitumor activity may be associated with on-target toxicity. Together, these data demonstrate that the apically restricted expression of MUC12 in normal tissues is accessible to BiTE molecule target engagement and highlight the difficult challenge of identifying tumor-selective antigens for solid tumor T cell engagers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Famke Aeffner
- Translational Safety & Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, Inc
| | | | | | - Petra Deegen
- Translational Safety & Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Research (Munich) GmbH, Amgen (Germany)
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