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Qu Y, Zeng A, Cheng Y, Li S. Natural killer cell memory: challenges and opportunities for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2376410. [PMID: 38987282 PMCID: PMC11238922 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2376410] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Substantial advancements have been made in recent years in comprehending immune memory, which enhances the secondary response through prior infections. The ability of vertebrate T and B lymphocytes to exhibit classic recall responses has long been regarded as a distinguishing characteristic. However, natural killer (NK) cells have been found to acquire immunological memory in a manner akin to T and B cells. The fundamental principles derived from the investigation of NK cell memory offer novel insights into innate immunity and have the potential to pave the way for innovative strategies to enhance therapeutic interventions against multiple diseases including cancer. Here, we reviewed the fundamental characteristics, memory development and regulatory mechanism of NK cell memory. Moreover, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the accomplishments, obstacles, and future direction pertaining to the utilization of NK cell memory in the field of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Qu
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Anhui Zeng
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yulu Cheng
- Department of Disinfection Supply Center, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shengchun Li
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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2
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Cantoni C, Falco M, Vitale M, Pietra G, Munari E, Pende D, Mingari MC, Sivori S, Moretta L. Human NK cells and cancer. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2378520. [PMID: 39022338 PMCID: PMC11253890 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2378520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The long story of NK cells started about 50 y ago with the first demonstration of a natural cytotoxic activity within an undefined subset of circulating leukocytes, has involved an ever-growing number of researchers, fascinated by the apparently easy-to-reach aim of getting a "universal anti-tumor immune tool". In fact, in spite of the impressive progress obtained in the first decades, these cells proved far more complex than expected and, paradoxically, the accumulating findings have continuously moved forward the attainment of a complete control of their function for immunotherapy. The refined studies of these latter years have indicated that NK cells can epigenetically calibrate their functional potential, in response to specific environmental contexts, giving rise to extraordinarily variegated subpopulations, comprehensive of memory-like cells, tissue-resident cells, or cells in various differentiation stages, or distinct functional states. In addition, NK cells can adapt their activity in response to a complex body of signals, spanning from the interaction with either suppressive or stimulating cells (myeloid-derived suppressor cells or dendritic cells, respectively) to the engagement of various receptors (specific for immune checkpoints, cytokines, tumor/viral ligands, or mediating antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity). According to this picture, the idea of an easy and generalized exploitation of NK cells is changing, and the way is opening toward new carefully designed, combined and personalized therapeutic strategies, also based on the use of genetically modified NK cells and stimuli capable of strengthening and redirecting their effector functions against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michela Falco
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Enrico Munari
- Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Pende
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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3
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Tarannum M, Dinh K, Vergara J, Birch G, Abdulhamid YZ, Kaplan IE, Ay O, Maia A, Beaver O, Sheffer M, Shapiro R, Ali AK, Dong H, Ham JD, Bobilev E, James S, Cameron AB, Nguyen QD, Ganapathy S, Chayawatto C, Koreth J, Paweletz CP, Gokhale PC, Barbie DA, Matulonis UA, Soiffer RJ, Ritz J, Porter RL, Chen J, Romee R. CAR memory-like NK cells targeting the membrane proximal domain of mesothelin demonstrate promising activity in ovarian cancer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn0881. [PMID: 38996027 PMCID: PMC11244547 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn0881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains one of the most lethal gynecological cancers. Cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) natural killer (NK) cells have shown promising results in preclinical and early-phase clinical trials. In the current study, CIML NK cells demonstrated superior antitumor responses against a panel of EOC cell lines, increased expression of activation receptors, and up-regulation of genes involved in cell cycle/proliferation and down-regulation of inhibitory/suppressive genes. CIML NK cells transduced with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting the membrane-proximal domain of mesothelin (MSLN) further improved the antitumor responses against MSLN-expressing EOC cells and patient-derived xenograft tumor cells. CAR arming of the CIML NK cells subtanstially reduced their dysfunction in patient-derived ascites fluid with transcriptomic changes related to altered metabolism and tonic signaling as potential mechanisms. Lastly, the adoptive transfer of MSLN-CAR CIML NK cells demonstrated remarkable inhibition of tumor growth and prevented metastatic spread in xenograft mice, supporting their potential as an effective therapeutic strategy in EOC.
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MESH Headings
- Mesothelin
- Humans
- Animals
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Female
- Mice
- Ovarian Neoplasms/metabolism
- Ovarian Neoplasms/pathology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/immunology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/therapy
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- GPI-Linked Proteins/metabolism
- GPI-Linked Proteins/genetics
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/immunology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/therapy
- Immunologic Memory
- Protein Domains
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubin Tarannum
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Khanhlinh Dinh
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Juliana Vergara
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Grace Birch
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yasmin Z Abdulhamid
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isabel E Kaplan
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oyku Ay
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andreia Maia
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Owen Beaver
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michal Sheffer
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roman Shapiro
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alaa Kassim Ali
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Han Dong
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James Dongjoo Ham
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Eden Bobilev
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sydney James
- Lurie Family Imaging Center, Center for Biomedical Imaging in Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy B Cameron
- Lurie Family Imaging Center, Center for Biomedical Imaging in Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Quang-De Nguyen
- Lurie Family Imaging Center, Center for Biomedical Imaging in Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Suthakar Ganapathy
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chayapatou Chayawatto
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John Koreth
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cloud P Paweletz
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Prafulla C Gokhale
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David A Barbie
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ursula A Matulonis
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert J Soiffer
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jerome Ritz
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca L Porter
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jianzhu Chen
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rizwan Romee
- Division of Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Shrestha N, Dee MJ, Chaturvedi P, Leclerc GM, Mathyer M, Dufour C, Arthur L, Becker-Hapak M, Foster M, McClain E, Pena NV, Kage K, Zhu X, George V, Liu B, Egan J, Echeverri C, Wang M, You L, Kong L, Li L, Berrien-Elliott MM, Cooper ML, Fehniger TA, Rhode PR, Wong HC. A "Prime and Expand" strategy using the multifunctional fusion proteins to generate memory-like NK cells for cell therapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:179. [PMID: 38960949 PMCID: PMC11222348 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03765-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) using memory-like (ML) natural killer (NK) cells, generated through overnight ex vivo activation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18, has shown promise for treating hematologic malignancies. We recently reported that a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9201, comprising IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 domains could replace individual cytokines for priming human ML NK cell programming ("Prime" step). However, this approach does not include ex vivo expansion, thereby limiting the ability to test different doses and schedules. Here, we report the design and generation of a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9206, consisting of human IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 cytokines. We observed > 300-fold expansion for HCW9201-primed human NK cells cultured for 14 days with HCW9206 and HCW9101, an IgG1 antibody, recognizing the scaffold domain of HCW9206 ("Expand" step). This expansion was dependent on both HCW9206 cytokines and interactions of the IgG1 mAb with CD16 receptors on NK cells. The resulting "Prime and Expand" ML NK cells exhibited elevated metabolic capacity, stable epigenetic IFNG promoter demethylation, enhanced antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo, and superior persistence in NSG mice. Thus, the "Prime and Expand" strategy represents a simple feeder cell-free approach to streamline manufacturing of clinical-grade ML NK cells to support multidose and off-the-shelf ACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Shrestha
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Michael J Dee
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | - Gilles M Leclerc
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | | | | | - Michelle Becker-Hapak
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Mark Foster
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ethan McClain
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | | | - Karen Kage
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Xiaoyun Zhu
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Varghese George
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Bai Liu
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Jack Egan
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | - Meng Wang
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Lijing You
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Lin Kong
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Liying Li
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Melissa M Berrien-Elliott
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | | | - Todd A Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Peter R Rhode
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Hing C Wong
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA.
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5
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Foltz JA, Tran J, Wong P, Fan C, Schmidt E, Fisk B, Becker-Hapak M, Russler-Germain DA, Johnson J, Marin ND, Cubitt CC, Pence P, Rueve J, Pureti S, Hwang K, Gao F, Zhou AY, Foster M, Schappe T, Marsala L, Berrien-Elliott MM, Cashen AF, Bednarski JJ, Fertig E, Griffith OL, Griffith M, Wang T, Petti AA, Fehniger TA. Cytokines drive the formation of memory-like NK cell subsets via epigenetic rewiring and transcriptional regulation. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadk4893. [PMID: 38941480 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adk4893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Activation of natural killer (NK) cells with the cytokines interleukin-12 (IL-12), IL-15, and IL-18 induces their differentiation into memory-like (ML) NK cells; however, the underlying epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms are unclear. By combining ATAC-seq, CITE-seq, and functional analyses, we discovered that IL-12/15/18 activation results in two main human NK fates: reprogramming into enriched memory-like (eML) NK cells or priming into effector conventional NK (effcNK) cells. eML NK cells had distinct transcriptional and epigenetic profiles and enhanced function, whereas effcNK cells resembled cytokine-primed cNK cells. Two transcriptionally discrete subsets of eML NK cells were also identified, eML-1 and eML-2, primarily arising from CD56bright or CD56dim mature NK cell subsets, respectively. Furthermore, these eML subsets were evident weeks after transfer of IL-12/15/18-activated NK cells into patients with cancer. Our findings demonstrate that NK cell activation with IL-12/15/18 results in previously unappreciated diverse cellular fates and identifies new strategies to enhance NK therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Tran
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Pamela Wong
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Changxu Fan
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Evelyn Schmidt
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bryan Fisk
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Nancy D Marin
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Celia C Cubitt
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Patrick Pence
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joseph Rueve
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sushanth Pureti
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kimberly Hwang
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Feng Gao
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alice Y Zhou
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mark Foster
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Timothy Schappe
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lynne Marsala
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Amanda F Cashen
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | - Obi L Griffith
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Malachi Griffith
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ting Wang
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Allegra A Petti
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Todd A Fehniger
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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6
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Perzolli A, Koedijk JB, Zwaan CM, Heidenreich O. Targeting the innate immune system in pediatric and adult AML. Leukemia 2024; 38:1191-1201. [PMID: 38459166 PMCID: PMC11147779 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02217-7] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
While the introduction of T cell-based immunotherapies has improved outcomes in many cancer types, the development of immunotherapies for both adult and pediatric AML has been relatively slow and limited. In addition to the need to identify suitable target antigens, a better understanding of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment is necessary for the design of novel immunotherapy approaches. To date, most immune characterization studies in AML have focused on T cells, while innate immune lineages such as monocytes, granulocytes and natural killer (NK) cells, received less attention. In solid cancers, studies have shown that innate immune cells, such as macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and neutrophils are highly plastic and may differentiate into immunosuppressive cells depending on signals received in their microenvironment, while NK cells appear to be functionally impaired. Hence, an in-depth characterization of the innate immune compartment in the TME is urgently needed to guide the development of immunotherapeutic interventions for AML. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the innate immune compartment in AML, and we discuss how targeting its components may enhance T cell-based- and other immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Perzolli
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost B Koedijk
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Michel Zwaan
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olaf Heidenreich
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
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7
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Marin ND, Becker-Hapak M, Song WM, Alayo QA, Marsala L, Sonnek N, Berrien-Elliott MM, Foster M, Foltz JA, Tran J, Wong P, Cubitt CC, Pence P, Hwang K, Zhou AY, Jacobs MT, Schappe T, Russler-Germain DA, Fields RC, Ciorba MA, Fehniger TA. Memory-like differentiation enhances NK cell responses against colorectal cancer. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2348254. [PMID: 38737793 PMCID: PMC11086027 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2348254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic (m) colorectal cancer (CRC) is an incurable disease with a poor prognosis and thus remains an unmet clinical need. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-based immunotherapy is effective for mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR)/microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) mCRC patients, but it does not benefit the majority of mCRC patients. NK cells are innate lymphoid cells with potent effector responses against a variety of tumor cells but are frequently dysfunctional in cancer patients. Memory-like (ML) NK cells differentiated after IL-12/IL-15/IL-18 activation overcome many challenges to effective NK cell anti-tumor responses, exhibiting enhanced recognition, function, and in vivo persistence. We hypothesized that ML differentiation enhances the NK cell responses to CRC. Compared to conventional (c) NK cells, ML NK cells displayed increased IFN-γ production against both CRC cell lines and primary patient-derived CRC spheroids. ML NK cells also exhibited improved killing of CRC target cells in vitro in short-term and sustained cytotoxicity assays, as well as in vivo in NSG mice. Mechanistically, enhanced ML NK cell responses were dependent on the activating receptor NKG2D as its blockade significantly decreased ML NK cell functions. Compared to cNK cells, ML NK cells exhibited greater antibody-dependent cytotoxicity when targeted against CRC by cetuximab. ML NK cells from healthy donors and mCRC patients exhibited increased anti-CRC responses. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that ML NK cells exhibit enhanced responses against CRC targets, warranting further investigation in clinical trials for mCRC patients, including those who have failed ICB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy D. Marin
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michelle Becker-Hapak
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Wilbur M. Song
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Quazim A. Alayo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lynne Marsala
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Naomi Sonnek
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melissa M. Berrien-Elliott
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mark Foster
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Foltz
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Tran
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Pamela Wong
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Celia C. Cubitt
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Patrick Pence
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kimberly Hwang
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alice Y. Zhou
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Miriam T. Jacobs
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Timothy Schappe
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David A. Russler-Germain
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ryan C. Fields
- Section of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Matthew A. Ciorba
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Todd A. Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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8
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Moinuddin A, Poznanski SM, Portillo AL, Monteiro JK, Ashkar AA. Metabolic adaptations determine whether natural killer cells fail or thrive within the tumor microenvironment. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:19-39. [PMID: 38459782 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13316] [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] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are a top contender in the development of adoptive cell therapies for cancer due to their diverse antitumor functions and ability to restrict their activation against nonmalignant cells. Despite their success in hematologic malignancies, NK cell-based therapies have been limited in the context of solid tumors. Tumor cells undergo various metabolic adaptations to sustain the immense energy demands that are needed to support their rapid and uncontrolled proliferation. As a result, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is depleted of nutrients needed to fuel immune cell activity and contains several immunosuppressive metabolites that hinder NK cell antitumor functions. Further, we now know that NK cell metabolic status is a main determining factor of their effector functions. Hence, the ability of NK cells to withstand and adapt to these metabolically hostile conditions is imperative for effective and sustained antitumor activity in the TME. With this in mind, we review the consequences of metabolic hostility in the TME on NK cell metabolism and function. We also discuss tumor-like metabolic programs in NK cell induced by STAT3-mediated expansion that adapt NK cells to thrive in the TME. Finally, we examine how other approaches can be applied to enhance NK cell metabolism in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Moinuddin
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sophie M Poznanski
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ana L Portillo
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan K Monteiro
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ali A Ashkar
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Zhang J, Li AM, Kansler ER, Li MO. Cancer immunity by tissue-resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells and killer innate-like T cells. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:150-163. [PMID: 38506480 PMCID: PMC11102320 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13319] [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] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Cancer progression can be restrained by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in a process termed cancer immunosurveillance. Based on how lymphocytes are activated and recruited to the tumor tissue, cancer immunity is either pre-wired, in which innate lymphocytes and innate-like T cells are directly recruited to and activated in tumors following their differentiation in primary lymphoid organs; or priming-dependent, in which conventional adaptive T cells are first primed by cognate antigens in secondary lymphoid organs before homing to and reactivated in tumors. While priming-dependent cancer immunity has been a focus of cancer immunology research for decades, in part due to historical preconception of cancer theory and tumor model choice as well as clinical success of conventional adaptive T cell-directed therapeutic programs, recent studies have revealed that pre-wired cancer immunity mediated by tissue-resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) and killer innate-like T cells (ILTCKs) is an integral component of the cancer immunosurveillance process. Herein we review the distinct ontogenies and cancer-sensing mechanisms of ILC1s and ILTCKs in murine genetic cancer models as well as the conspicuously conserved responses in human malignancies. How ILC1s and ILTCKs may be targeted to broaden the scope of cancer immunotherapy beyond conventional adaptive T cells is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Albert M. Li
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily R. Kansler
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ming O. Li
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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10
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Wu Y, Li Y, Gao Y, Zhang P, Jing Q, Zhang Y, Jin W, Wang Y, Du J, Wu G. Immunotherapies of acute myeloid leukemia: Rationale, clinical evidence and perspective. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116132. [PMID: 38198961 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a prevalent hematological malignancy that exhibits a wide array of molecular abnormalities. Although traditional treatment modalities such as chemotherapy and allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have become standard therapeutic approaches, a considerable number of patients continue to face relapse and encounter a bleak prognosis. The emergence of immune escape, immunosuppression, minimal residual disease (MRD), and other contributing factors collectively contribute to this challenge. Recent research has increasingly highlighted the notable distinctions between AML tumor microenvironments and those of healthy individuals. In order to investigate the potential therapeutic mechanisms, this study examines the intricate transformations occurring between leukemic cells and their surrounding cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) of AML. This review classifies immunotherapies into four distinct categories: cancer vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody-based immunotherapies, and adoptive T-cell therapies. The results of numerous clinical trials strongly indicate that the identification of optimal combinations of novel agents, either in conjunction with each other or with chemotherapy, represents a crucial advancement in this field. In this review, we aim to explore the current and emerging immunotherapeutic methodologies applicable to AML patients, identify promising targets, and emphasize the crucial requirement to augment patient outcomes. The application of these strategies presents substantial therapeutic prospects within the realm of precision medicine for AML, encompassing the potential to ameliorate patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyi Wu
- Department of Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanchun Li
- Department of Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiangan Jing
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinhao Zhang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weidong Jin
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jing Du
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Gongqiang Wu
- Department of Hematology, Dongyang Hospitai Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang People's Hospital, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China.
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11
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Saultz JN, Otegbeye F. Optimizing the cryopreservation and post-thaw recovery of natural killer cells is critical for the success of off-the-shelf platforms. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1304689. [PMID: 38193082 PMCID: PMC10773738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1304689] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a promising allogeneic, off-the-shelf, cellular immunotherapy product. These cells can be manipulated ex vivo, genetically edited to enhance tumor targeting and expanded to produce large cell banks for multiple patient infusions. Therapeutic efficacy of these products depends on the recovery of viable and functional cells post-thaw. Post-thaw loss of viability and cytolytic activity results in large, and often variable, discrepancies between the intended cell dose (based on counts at cryopreservation) and the actual dose administered. Compared to their highly activated state in fresh culture, post-thaw NK cells demonstrate critical changes in cytokine production, cytotoxic activity, in vivo proliferation and migration. When these NK cells are introduced into the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, the functional changes induced by cryopreservation further limits the clinical potential of these products. This report will review the impact of cryopreservation on ex vivo expanded NK cells and outlines strategies described in published studies to recover post-thaw function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N. Saultz
- Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Folashade Otegbeye
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, United States
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12
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Bakhtiyaridovvombaygi M, Yazdanparast S, Mikanik F, Izadpanah A, Parkhideh S, Shahbaz Ghasabeh A, Roshandel E, Hajifathali A, Gharehbaghian A. Cytokine-Induced Memory-Like NK Cells: Emerging strategy for AML immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115718. [PMID: 37857247 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115718] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease developed from the malignant expansion of myeloid precursor cells in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. The implementation of intensive chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has improved outcomes associated with AML, but relapse, along with suboptimal outcomes, is still a common scenario. In the past few years, exploring new therapeutic strategies to optimize treatment outcomes has occurred rapidly. In this regard, natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy has attracted clinical interest due to its critical role in immunosurveillance and their capabilities to target AML blasts. NK cells are cytotoxic innate lymphoid cells that mediate anti-viral and anti-tumor responses by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and directly inducing cytotoxicity. Although NK cells are well known as short-lived innate immune cells with non-specific responses that have limited their clinical applications, the discovery of cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells could overcome these challenges. NK cells pre-activated with the cytokine combination IL-12/15/18 achieved a long-term life span with adaptive immunity characteristics, termed CIML-NK cells. Previous studies documented that using CIML-NK cells in cancer treatment is safe and results in promising outcomes. This review highlights the current application, challenges, and opportunities of CIML-NK cell-based therapy in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Bakhtiyaridovvombaygi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Yazdanparast
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mikanik
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Izadpanah
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Parkhideh
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Shahbaz Ghasabeh
- Department of Hematology and Blood Bank, School of Allied Medical Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Roshandel
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abbas Hajifathali
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Gharehbaghian
- Department of Hematology and Blood Bank, School of Allied Medical Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Pediatric Congenital Hematologic Disorders Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Fetzko SL, Timothy LD, Parihar R. NK Cell Therapeutics for Hematologic Malignancies: from Potential to Fruition. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2023; 18:264-272. [PMID: 37751103 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-023-00711-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] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current review focuses on the preclinical development and clinical advances of natural killer (NK) cell therapeutics for hematologic malignancies and offers perspective on the unmet challenges that will direct future discovery in the field. RECENT FINDINGS Approaches to improve or re-direct NK cell anti-tumor functions against hematologic malignancies have included transgenic expression of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), administration of NK cell engagers including BiKEs and TriKEs that enhance antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) by co-engaging NK cell CD16 and antigens on tumors, incorporation of a non-cleavable CD16 that results in enhanced ADCC, use of induced memory-like NK cells alone or in combination with CARs, and blockade of NK immune checkpoints to enhance NK cytotoxicity. Recently reported and ongoing clinical trials support the feasibility and safety of these approaches. NK cell-based therapeutic strategies hold great promise as cost-effective, off-the-shelf cell therapies for patients with relapsed and refractory hematologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Fetzko
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leander D Timothy
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robin Parihar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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14
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Vu SH, Pham HH, Pham TTP, Le TT, Vo MC, Jung SH, Lee JJ, Nguyen XH. Adoptive NK Cell Therapy - a Beacon of Hope in Multiple Myeloma Treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1275076. [PMID: 38023191 PMCID: PMC10656693 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1275076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Major advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) have been achieved by effective new agents such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, or monoclonal antibodies. Despite significant progress, MM remains still incurable and, recently, cellular immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for relapsed/refractory MM. The emergence of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology has transformed immunotherapy by enhancing the antitumor functions of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, leading to effective control of hematologic malignancies. Recent advancements in gene delivery to NK cells have paved the way for the clinical application of CAR-NK cell therapy. CAR-NK cell therapy strategies have demonstrated safety, tolerability, and substantial efficacy in treating B cell malignancies in various clinical settings. However, their effectiveness in eliminating MM remains to be established. This review explores multiple approaches to enhance NK cell cytotoxicity, persistence, expansion, and manufacturing processes, and highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with CAR-NK cell therapy against MM. By shedding light on these aspects, this review aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of CAR-NK cell therapy as a promising approach for improving the treatment outcomes of MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Son Hai Vu
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ha Hong Pham
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thao Thi Phuong Pham
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thanh Thien Le
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Manh-Cuong Vo
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Jung Lee
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuan-Hung Nguyen
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
- College of Health Sciences, VinUniversity, Hanoi, Vietnam
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15
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Hegewisch-Solloa E, Nalin AP, Freud AG, Mace EM. Deciphering the localization and trajectory of human natural killer cell development. J Leukoc Biol 2023; 114:487-506. [PMID: 36869821 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immune cells represent the first line of cellular immunity, comprised of both circulating and tissue-resident natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells. These innate lymphocytes arise from a common CD34+ progenitor that differentiates into mature natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells. The successive stages in natural killer cell maturation are characterized by increased lineage restriction and changes to phenotype and function. Mechanisms of human natural killer cell development have not been fully elucidated, especially the role of signals that drive the spatial localization and maturation of natural killer cells. Cytokines, extracellular matrix components, and chemokines provide maturation signals and influence the trafficking of natural killer cell progenitors to peripheral sites of differentiation. Here we present the latest advances in our understanding of natural killer and innate lymphoid cell development in peripheral sites, including secondary lymphoid tissues (i.e. tonsil). Recent work in the field has provided a model for the spatial distribution of natural killer cell and innate lymphoid cell developmental intermediates in tissue and generated further insights into the developmental niche. In support of this model, future studies using multifaceted approaches seek to fully map the developmental trajectory of human natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells in secondary lymphoid tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Everardo Hegewisch-Solloa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 630 W 168th St. New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Ansel P Nalin
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Medical Scientist Training Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center and The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 460 W 10th Ave. Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Aharon G Freud
- Department of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center and The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 460 W 12th Ave. Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Emily M Mace
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 630 W 168th St. New York, NY 10032, USA
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16
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O’Neal J, Cooper ML, Ritchey JK, Gladney S, Niswonger J, González LS, Street E, Haas GJ, Carter A, Amayta PN, Gao F, Lee BH, Choi D, Berrien-Elliott M, Zhou A, Fehniger TA, Rettig MP, DiPersio JF. Anti-myeloma efficacy of CAR-iNKT is enhanced with a long-acting IL-7, rhIL-7-hyFc. Blood Adv 2023; 7:6009-6022. [PMID: 37399471 PMCID: PMC10582278 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM), a malignancy of mature plasma cells, remains incurable. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is the lead protein target for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy because of its high expression in most MM, with limited expression in other cell types, resulting in favorable on-target, off tumor toxicity. The response rate to autologous BCMA CAR-T therapy is high; however, it is not curative and is associated with risks of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome. Outcomes in patients treated with BCMA CAR-T cells (CAR-Ts) may improve with allogeneic CAR T-cell therapy, which offer higher cell fitness and reduced time to treatment. However, to prevent the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), allogenic BCMA CAR-Ts require genetic deletion of the T-cell receptor (TCR), which has potential for unexpected functional or phenotype changes. Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) have an invariant TCR that does not cause GVHD and, as a result, can be used in an allogeneic setting without the need for TCR gene editing. We demonstrate significant anti-myeloma activity of BCMA CAR-iNKTs in a xenograft mouse model of myeloma. We found that a long-acting interleukin-7 (IL-7), rhIL-7-hyFc, significantly prolonged survival and reduced tumor burden in BCMA CAR-iNKT-treated mice in both primary and re-challenge settings. Furthermore, in CRS in vitro assays, CAR-iNKTs induced less IL-6 than CAR-Ts, suggesting a reduced likelihood of CAR-iNKT therapy to induce CRS in patients. These data suggest that BCMA CAR-iNKTs are potentially a safer, effective alternative to BCMA CAR-Ts and that BCMA CAR-iNKT efficacy is further potentiated with rhIL-7-hyFc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie O’Neal
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Matthew L. Cooper
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Julie K. Ritchey
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Susan Gladney
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Jessica Niswonger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - L. Sofía González
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Emily Street
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Gabriel J. Haas
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Alun Carter
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Parmeshwar N. Amayta
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Feng Gao
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | | | | | - Melissa Berrien-Elliott
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Alice Zhou
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Todd A. Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Mike P. Rettig
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - John F. DiPersio
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
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17
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Ayuso JM, Farooqui M, Virumbrales-Muñoz M, Denecke K, Rehman S, Schmitz R, Guerrero JF, Sanchez-de-Diego C, Campo SA, Maly EM, Forsberg MH, Kerr SC, Striker R, Sherer NM, Harari PM, Capitini CM, Skala MC, Beebe DJ. Microphysiological model reveals the promise of memory-like natural killer cell immunotherapy for HIV ± cancer. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6681. [PMID: 37865647 PMCID: PMC10590421 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41625-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies are exploring the use of cell adoptive therapies to treat hematological malignancies as well as solid tumors. However, there are numerous factors that dampen the immune response, including viruses like human immunodeficiency virus. In this study, we leverage human-derived microphysiological models to reverse-engineer the HIV-immune system interaction and evaluate the potential of memory-like natural killer cells for HIV+ head and neck cancer, one of the most common tumors in patients living with human immunodeficiency virus. Here, we evaluate multiple aspects of the memory-like natural killer cell response in human-derived bioengineered environments, including immune cell extravasation, tumor penetration, tumor killing, T cell dependence, virus suppression, and compatibility with retroviral medication. Overall, these results suggest that memory-like natural killer cells are capable of operating without T cell assistance and could simultaneously destroy head and neck cancer cells as well as reduce viral latency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Ayuso
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Mehtab Farooqui
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - María Virumbrales-Muñoz
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Katheryn Denecke
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Shujah Rehman
- Morgridge Institute for Research, 330 N Orchard street, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Rebecca Schmitz
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, 330 N Orchard street, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jorge F Guerrero
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Cristina Sanchez-de-Diego
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sara Abizanda Campo
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Maly
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, 330 N Orchard street, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Matthew H Forsberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Robert Striker
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
- Vivent Health, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Nathan M Sherer
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Christian M Capitini
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Melissa C Skala
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, 330 N Orchard street, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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18
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Carreira-Santos S, López-Sejas N, González-Sánchez M, Sánchez-Hernández E, Pera A, Hassouneh F, Durán E, Solana R, Casado JG, Tarazona R. Enhanced expression of natural cytotoxicity receptors on cytokine-induced memory-like natural killer cells correlates with effector function. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1256404. [PMID: 37908353 PMCID: PMC10613704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1256404] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Natural killer (NK) cells are a key component of the innate immune system, involved in defending the host against virus-infected cells and tumor immunosurveillance. Under in vitro culture conditions, IL-12/15/18 can induce a memory-like phenotype in NK cells. These cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells possess desirable characteristics for immunotherapies, including a longer lifespan and increased cytotoxicity. Methods In this study, NK cells were isolated from peripheral blood of healthy donors and stimulated with IL-12/15/18 to induce a memory-like phenotype or with IL-15 alone as a control. After seven days of culture, multiparametric flow cytometry analysis was performed to evaluate the phenotypic and functional profiles of CIML and control NK cells. Results Our results showed a significantly higher expression of CD25, CD69, NKG2D, NKp30, NKp44, NKp46, TACTILE, and Granzyme B in CIML NK cells compared to control NK cells. In contrast, KIR2D expression was significantly lower in CIML NK cells than in control NK cells. Moreover, functional experiments demonstrated that CIML NK cells displayed enhanced degranulation capacity and increased intracellular IFN-γ production against the target cell line K562. Interestingly, the degranulation capacity of CIML NK cells was positively correlated with the expression of the activating receptors NKp46 and NKp30, as well as with the inhibitory receptor TACTILE. Discussion In conclusion, this study provides a deep phenotypic characterization of in vitro-expanded CIML NK cells. Moreover, the correlations found between NK cell receptors and degranulation capacity of CIML NK cells allowed the identification of several biomarkers that could be useful in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Carreira-Santos
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Nelson López-Sejas
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Eva Sánchez-Hernández
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Alejandra Pera
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fakhri Hassouneh
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Esther Durán
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy Unit, Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Rafael Solana
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Immunology and Allergy Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Javier G. Casado
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER) de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- RICORS-TERAV Network, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Raquel Tarazona
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
- Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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19
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Jacobs MT, Wong P, Zhou AY, Becker-Hapak M, Marin ND, Marsala L, Foster M, Foltz JA, Cubitt CC, Tran J, Russler-Germain DA, Neal C, Kersting-Schadek S, Chang L, Schappe T, Pence P, McClain E, Zevallos JP, Rich JT, Paniello RC, Jackson c RS, Pipkorn P, Adkins DR, DeSelm CJ, Berrien-Elliott MM, Puram SV, Fehniger TA. Memory-like Differentiation, Tumor-Targeting mAbs, and Chimeric Antigen Receptors Enhance Natural Killer Cell Responses to Head and Neck Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:4196-4208. [PMID: 37556118 PMCID: PMC10796148 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive tumor with low response rates to frontline PD-1 blockade. Natural killer (NK) cells are a promising cellular therapy for T cell therapy-refractory cancers, but are frequently dysfunctional in patients with HNSCC. Strategies are needed to enhance NK cell responses against HNSCC. We hypothesized that memory-like (ML) NK cell differentiation, tumor targeting with cetuximab, and engineering with an anti-EphA2 (Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor A2) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) enhance NK cell responses against HNSCC. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We generated ML NK and conventional (c)NK cells from healthy donors, then evaluated their ability to produce IFNγ, TNF, degranulate, and kill HNSCC cell lines and primary HNSCC cells, alone or in combination with cetuximab, in vitro and in vivo using xenograft models. ML and cNK cells were engineered to express anti-EphA2 CAR-CD8A-41BB-CD3z, and functional responses were assessed in vitro against HNSCC cell lines and primary HNSCC tumor cells. RESULTS Human ML NK cells displayed enhanced IFNγ and TNF production and both short- and long-term killing of HNSCC cell lines and primary targets, compared with cNK cells. These enhanced responses were further improved by cetuximab. Compared with controls, ML NK cells expressing anti-EphA2 CAR had increased IFNγ and cytotoxicity in response to EphA2+ cell lines and primary HNSCC targets. CONCLUSIONS These preclinical findings demonstrate that ML differentiation alone or coupled with either cetuximab-directed targeting or EphA2 CAR engineering were effective against HNSCCs and provide the rationale for investigating these combination approaches in early phase clinical trials for patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam T. Jacobs
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Pamela Wong
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Alice Y. Zhou
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michelle Becker-Hapak
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Nancy D. Marin
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Lynne Marsala
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Mark Foster
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Jennifer A. Foltz
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Celia C. Cubitt
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Jennifer Tran
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - David A. Russler-Germain
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carly Neal
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | | | - Lily Chang
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Timfothy Schappe
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Patrick Pence
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Ethan McClain
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Jose P. Zevallos
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jason T Rich
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Randal C. Paniello
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ryan S. Jackson c
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Patrik Pipkorn
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Douglas R. Adkins
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carl J. DeSelm
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melissa M. Berrien-Elliott
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sidharth V. Puram
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Todd A. Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
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20
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de Jonge PKJD, van Hauten PMM, Janssen LD, de Goede AL, Berrien-Elliott MM, van der Meer JMR, Mousset CM, Roeven MWH, Foster M, Blijlevens N, Hobo W, Fehniger TA, Jansen JH, Schaap NPM, Dolstra H. Good manufacturing practice production of CD34 + progenitor-derived NK cells for adoptive immunotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3323-3335. [PMID: 37477653 PMCID: PMC10491545 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03492-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Allogeneic natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy is a promising, well-tolerated adjuvant therapeutic approach for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). For reproducible NK cell immunotherapy, a homogenous, pure and scalable NK cell product is preferred. Therefore, we developed a good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant, cytokine-based ex vivo manufacturing process for generating NK cells from CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC). This manufacturing process combines amongst others IL15 and IL12 and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonist StemRegenin-1 (SR1) to generate a consistent and active NK cell product that fits the requirements for NK cell immunotherapy well. The cell culture protocol was first optimized to generate NK cells with required expansion and differentiation capacity in GMP-compliant closed system cell culture bags. In addition, phenotype, antitumor potency, proliferative and metabolic capacity were evaluated to characterize the HSPC-NK product. Subsequently, seven batches were manufactured for qualification of the process. All seven runs demonstrated consistent results for proliferation, differentiation and antitumor potency, and preliminary specifications for the investigational medicinal product for early clinical phase trials were set. This GMP-compliant manufacturing process for HSPC-NK cells (named RNK001 cells) is used to produce NK cell batches applied in the clinical trial 'Infusion of ex vivo-generated allogeneic natural killer cells in combination with subcutaneous IL2 in patients with acute myeloid leukemia' approved by the Dutch Ethics Committee (EudraCT 2019-001929-27).
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Affiliation(s)
- P K J D de Jonge
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - P M M van Hauten
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - L D Janssen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A L de Goede
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M M Berrien-Elliott
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - J M R van der Meer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - C M Mousset
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M W H Roeven
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M Foster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - N Blijlevens
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - W Hobo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - T A Fehniger
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - J H Jansen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - N P M Schaap
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - H Dolstra
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 8, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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21
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Kiaei SZF, Nouralishahi A, Ghasemirad M, Barkhordar M, Ghaffari S, Kheradjoo H, Saleh M, Mohammadzadehsaliani S, Molaeipour Z. Advances in natural killer cell therapies for breast cancer. Immunol Cell Biol 2023; 101:705-726. [PMID: 37282729 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12658] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cause of cancer death in women. According to the American Cancer Society's yearly cancer statistics, BC constituted almost 15% of all the newly diagnosed cancer cases in 2022 for both sexes. Metastatic disease occurs in 30% of patients with BC. The currently available treatments fail to cure metastatic BC, and the average survival time for patients with metastatic BC is approximately 2 years. Developing a treatment method that terminates cancer stem cells without harming healthy cells is the primary objective of novel therapeutics. Adoptive cell therapy is a branch of cancer immunotherapy that utilizes the immune cells to attack cancer cells. Natural killer (NK) cells are an essential component of innate immunity and are critical in destroying tumor cells without prior stimulation with antigens. With the advent of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), the autologous or allogeneic use of NK/CAR-NK cell therapy has raised new hopes for treating patients with cancer. Here, we describe recent developments in NK and CAR-NK cell immunotherapy, including the biology and function of NK cells, clinical trials, different sources of NK cells and their future perspectives on BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zahra Fotook Kiaei
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Ghasemirad
- Department of Periodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Maryam Barkhordar
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center (HORCSCT), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sasan Ghaffari
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Mahshid Saleh
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin Graduate School, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Zahra Molaeipour
- Hematology Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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22
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Egan G, Tasian SK. Relapsed pediatric acute myeloid leukaemia: state-of-the-art in 2023. Haematologica 2023; 108:2275-2288. [PMID: 36861399 PMCID: PMC10483345 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.281106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although outcomes of children and adolescents with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have improved significantly over the past two decades, more than one-third of patients continue to relapse and experience suboptimal long-term outcomes. Given the small numbers of patients with relapsed AML and historical logistical barriers to international collaboration including poor trial funding and drug availability, the management of AML relapse has varied among pediatric oncology cooperative groups with several salvage regimens utilized and a lack of universally defined response criteria. The landscape of relapsed pediatric AML treatment is changing rapidly, however, as the international AML community harnesses collective knowledge and resources to characterize the genetic and immunophenotypic heterogeneity of relapsed disease, identify biological targets of interest within specific AML subtypes, develop new precision medicine approaches for collaborative investigation in early-phase clinical trials, and tackle challenges of universal drug access across the globe. This review provides a comprehensive overview of progress achieved to date in the treatment of pediatric patients with relapsed AML and highlights modern, state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches under active and emerging clinical investigation that have been facilitated by international collaboration among academic pediatric oncologists, laboratory scientists, regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical partners, cancer research sponsors, and patient advocates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Egan
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto; Toronto, Ontario
| | - Sarah K Tasian
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Abramson Cancer Center; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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23
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Zhang Y, Zhou W, Yang J, Yang J, Wang W. Chimeric antigen receptor engineered natural killer cells for cancer therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:70. [PMID: 37563648 PMCID: PMC10413722 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00431-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, a unique component of the innate immune system, are inherent killers of stressed and transformed cells. Based on their potent capacity to kill cancer cells and good tolerance of healthy cells, NK cells have been successfully employed in adoptive cell therapy to treat cancer patients. In recent years, the clinical success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells has proven the vast potential of gene-manipulated immune cells as the main force to fight cancer. Following the lessons learned from mature gene-transfer technologies and advanced strategies in CAR-T therapy, NK cells have been rapidly explored as a promising candidate for CAR-based therapy. An exponentially growing number of studies have employed multiple sources of CAR-NK cells to target a wide range of cancer-related antigens, showing remarkable outcomes and encouraging safety profiles. Clinical trials of CAR-NK cells have also shown their impressive therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of hematological tumors, but CAR-NK cell therapy for solid tumors is still in the initial stages. In this review, we present the favorable profile of NK cells as a potential platform for CAR-based engineering and then summarize the outcomes and strategies of CAR-NK therapies in up-to-date preclinical and clinical investigations. Finally, we evaluate the challenges remaining in CAR-NK therapy and describe existing strategies that can assist us in devising future prospective solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Weilin Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiangping Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinrong Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
- Hematology Research Laboratory, Department of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Hussein BA, Kristenson L, Pesce S, Wöhr A, Tian Y, Hallner A, Brune M, Hellstrand K, Tang KW, Bernson E, Thorén FB. NKG2A gene variant predicts outcome of immunotherapy in AML and modulates the repertoire and function of NK cells. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007202. [PMID: 37648262 PMCID: PMC10471874 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The natural killer (NK) complex (NKC) harbors multiple genes such as KLRC1 (encoding NKG2A) and KLRK1 (encoding NKG2D) that are central to regulation of NK cell function. We aimed at determining to what extent NKC haplotypes impact on NK cell repertoire and function, and whether such gene variants impact on outcome of IL-2-based immunotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). METHODS Genotype status of NKG2D rs1049174 and NKG2A rs1983526 was determined using the TaqMan-Allelic discrimination approach. To dissect the impact of single nucloetide polymorphim (SNP) on NK cell function, we engineered the K562 cell line with CRISPR to be killed in a highly NKG2D-dependent fashion. NK cells were assayed for degranulation, intracellular cytokine production and cytotoxicity using flow cytometry. RESULTS In AML patients receiving immunotherapy, the NKG2A gene variant, rs1983526, was associated with superior leukemia-free survival and overall survival. We observed that superior NK degranulation from individuals with the high-cytotoxicity NKG2D variant was explained by presence of a larger, highly responsive NKG2A+ subset. Notably, NK cells from donors homozygous for a favorable allele encoding NKG2A mounted stronger cytokine responses when challenged with leukemic cells, and NK cells from AML patients with this genotype displayed higher accumulation of granzyme B during histamine dihydrochloride/IL-2 immunotherapy. Additionally, among AML patients, the NKG2A SNP defined a subset of patients with HLA-B-21 TT with a strikingly favorable outcome. CONCLUSIONS The study results imply that a dimorphism in the NKG2A gene is associated with enhanced NK cell effector function and improved outcome of IL-2-based immunotherapy in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brwa Ali Hussein
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linnea Kristenson
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Silvia Pesce
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anne Wöhr
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Yarong Tian
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Alexander Hallner
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mats Brune
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristoffer Hellstrand
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ka-Wei Tang
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elin Bernson
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg,Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fredrik B Thorén
- TIMM Laboratory, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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25
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Hallisey M, Dennis J, Gabriel EP, Masciarelli A, Chen J, Abrecht C, Brainard M, Marcotte WM, Dong H, Hathaway E, Tarannum M, Vergara JA, Schork AN, Tyan K, Tarantino G, Liu D, Romee R, Rahma OE, Severgnini M, Hodi FS, Baginska J. Profiling of Natural Killer Interactions With Cancer Cells Using Mass Cytometry. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100174. [PMID: 37169083 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100174] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
We developed a comprehensive method for functional assessment of the changes in immune populations and killing activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells after cocultures with cancer cells using mass cytometry. In this study, a 43-marker mass cytometry panel was applied to a coculture of immune cells from healthy donors' peripheral blood mononuclear cells with diverse cancer cell lines. DNA content combined with classical CD45 surface staining was used as gating parameters for cocultures of immune cells (CD45high/DNAlow) with hematological (CD45low/DNAhigh) and solid cancer cell lines (CD45neg/DNAhigh). This strategy allows for universal discrimination of cancer cells from immune populations without the need for a specific cancer cell marker and simultaneous assessment of phenotypical changes in both populations. The use of mass cytometry allows for simultaneous detection of changes in natural killer, natural killer T cell, and T cell phenotypes and degranulation of immune populations upon target recognition, analysis of target cells for cytotoxic protein granzyme B content, and cancer cell death. These findings have broad applicability in research and clinical settings with the aim to phenotype and assess functional changes following not only NK-cancer cell interactions but also the effect of those interactions on other immune populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Hallisey
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jenna Dennis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth P Gabriel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alyssa Masciarelli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Charlotte Abrecht
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Martha Brainard
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - William M Marcotte
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Han Dong
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emma Hathaway
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mubin Tarannum
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Juliana A Vergara
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Abigail N Schork
- Longwood Medical Area CyTOF Core, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kevin Tyan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Giuseppe Tarantino
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Rizwan Romee
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Osama E Rahma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mariano Severgnini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - F Stephen Hodi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joanna Baginska
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
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26
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Zhao X, Lin M, Huang X. Current status and future perspective of natural killer cell therapy for cancer. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2023; 3:305-320. [PMID: 38235405 PMCID: PMC10790210 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells possess innate abilities to effectively eliminate cancer cells. However, because of difficulties of proliferation and easy to be induced dysfunction in the setting of cancer post NK cell therapy, the curative effect of NK cell infusion has been constrained and not been widely applicable in clinical practice. The rapid development of biotechnology has promoted the development of NK cell therapy for cancer treatment. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive analysis of the current status and future prospects of NK cell therapy for cancer, focusing on the biological characteristics of NK cells, as well as strategies to enhance their targeting capabilities and overcome tumor immune suppression within the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Zhao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Minghao Lin
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Huang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
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27
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Terrén I, Sandá V, Amarilla-Irusta A, Lopez-Pardo A, Sevilla A, Astarloa-Pando G, Amo L, Zenarruzabeitia O, Scorrano L, Borrego F. IL-12/15/18-induced cell death and mitochondrial dynamics of human NK cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1211839. [PMID: 37575238 PMCID: PMC10413107 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1211839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes with potent antitumor functions and, consequently, several NK cell-based strategies have been developed for cancer immunotherapy. A remarkable therapeutic approach is the adoptive transfer of NK cells stimulated with IL-12, IL-15 and IL-18. This cytokine stimulation endows NK cells with properties that resemble immunological memory and, for this reason, they are known as cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells. Very promising results have been reported in clinical trials and yet, there are still unknown aspects of CIML NK cells. Here, we have conducted a preliminary study of their mitochondrial dynamics. Our results show that upon IL-12/15/18 stimulation the viability of NK cells decreased and an increment in mitochondrial superoxide levels was observed. In addition, we found that mitochondria appeared slightly elongated and their cristae density decreased following IL-12/15/18 stimulation, possibly in a process mediated by the low levels of optic atrophy type 1 (OPA1) protein. Interestingly, although mitophagy was slightly impaired, an increase in autophagic flux was observed, which might explain the reduced viability and the accumulation of unfit mitochondria. Our findings could be of relevance in order to design new strategies intended to improve the mitochondrial fitness of IL-12/15/18-stimulated NK cells with the aim of improving their therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Terrén
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Víctor Sandá
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Ainara Lopez-Pardo
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Arrate Sevilla
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain
| | | | - Laura Amo
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Luca Scorrano
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
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28
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Wong P, Foltz JA, Chang L, Neal CC, Yao T, Cubitt CC, Tran J, Kersting-Schadek S, Palakurty S, Jaeger N, Russler-Germain DA, Marin ND, Gang M, Wagner JA, Zhou AY, Jacobs MT, Foster M, Schappe T, Marsala L, McClain E, Pence P, Becker-Hapak M, Fisk B, Petti AA, Griffith OL, Griffith M, Berrien-Elliott MM, Fehniger TA. T-BET and EOMES sustain mature human NK cell identity and antitumor function. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e162530. [PMID: 37279078 PMCID: PMC10313375 DOI: 10.1172/jci162530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the T-box transcription factors (TFs) T-BET and EOMES are necessary for initiation of NK cell development, their ongoing requirement for mature NK cell homeostasis, function, and molecular programming remains unclear. To address this, T-BET and EOMES were deleted in unexpanded primary human NK cells using CRISPR/Cas9. Deleting these TFs compromised in vivo antitumor response of human NK cells. Mechanistically, T-BET and EOMES were required for normal NK cell proliferation and persistence in vivo. NK cells lacking T-BET and EOMES also exhibited defective responses to cytokine stimulation. Single-cell RNA-Seq revealed a specific T-box transcriptional program in human NK cells, which was rapidly lost following T-BET and EOMES deletion. Further, T-BET- and EOMES-deleted CD56bright NK cells acquired an innate lymphoid cell precursor-like (ILCP-like) profile with increased expression of the ILC-3-associated TFs RORC and AHR, revealing a role for T-box TFs in maintaining mature NK cell phenotypes and an unexpected role of suppressing alternative ILC lineages. Our study reveals the critical importance of sustained EOMES and T-BET expression to orchestrate mature NK cell function and identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Wong
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
| | | | - Lily Chang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
| | | | - Tony Yao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark Foster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bryan Fisk
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
| | | | | | | | | | - Todd A. Fehniger
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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29
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Maurer K, Soiffer RJ. The delicate balance of graft versus leukemia and graft versus host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:943-962. [PMID: 37906445 PMCID: PMC11195539 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2273847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The curative basis of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) relies in part upon the graft versus leukemia (GvL) effect, whereby donor immune cells recognize and eliminate recipient malignant cells. However, alloreactivity of donor cells against recipient tissues may also be deleterious. Chronic graft versus host disease (cGvHD) is an immunologic phenomenon wherein alloreactive donor T cells aberrantly react against host tissues, leading to damaging inflammatory symptoms. AREAS COVERED Here, we discuss biological insights into GvL and cGvHD and strategies to balance the prevention of GvHD with maintenance of GvL in modern HSCT. EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY Relapse remains the leading cause of mortality after HSCT with rates as high as 40% for some diseases. GvHD is a major cause of morbidity after HSCT, occurring in up to half of patients and responsible for 15-20% of deaths after HSCT. Intriguingly, the development of chronic GvHD may be linked to lower relapse rates after HSCT, suggesting that GvL and GvHD may be complementary sides of the immunologic foundation of HSCT. The ability to fine tune the balance of GvL and GvHD will lead to improvements in survival, relapse rates, and quality of life for patients undergoing HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Maurer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert J Soiffer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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30
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Parodi M, Astigiano S, Carrega P, Pietra G, Vitale C, Damele L, Grottoli M, Guevara Lopez MDLL, Ferracini R, Bertolini G, Roato I, Vitale M, Orecchia P. Murine models to study human NK cells in human solid tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209237. [PMID: 37388731 PMCID: PMC10301748 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209237] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first studies, the mouse models have provided crucial support for the most important discoveries on NK cells, on their development, function, and circulation within normal and tumor tissues. Murine tumor models were initially set to study murine NK cells, then, ever more sophisticated human-in-mice models have been developed to investigate the behavior of human NK cells and minimize the interferences from the murine environment. This review presents an overview of the models that have been used along time to study NK cells, focusing on the most popular NOG and NSG models, which work as recipients for the preparation of human-in-mice tumor models, the study of transferred human NK cells, and the evaluation of various enhancers of human NK cell function, including cytokines and chimeric molecules. Finally, an overview of the next generation humanized mice is also provided along with a discussion on how traditional and innovative in-vivo and in-vitro approaches could be integrated to optimize effective pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Parodi
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Simonetta Astigiano
- Animal Facility, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Carrega
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Vitale
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Damele
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Melania Grottoli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Ferracini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Bone and Dental Bioengineering Laboratory, C.I.R Dental School, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Surgical Sciences (DISC), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Bertolini
- “Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors”, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Roato
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Bone and Dental Bioengineering Laboratory, C.I.R Dental School, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- Unità Operativa UO Patologia e Immunologia Sperimentale, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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31
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Foo YY, Tiah A, Aung SW. Harnessing the power of memory-like NK cells to fight cancer. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 212:212-223. [PMID: 36866467 PMCID: PMC10243875 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells possess the innate ability to eliminate cancerous cells effectively. Their crucial role in immunosurveillance has been widely recognized and exploited for therapeutic intervention. Despite the fast-acting nature of NK cells, NK adoptive cell transfer lacks favorable response in some patients. Patient NK cells often display diminished phenotype in preventing cancer progression resulting in poor prognosis. Tumor microenvironment plays a significant role in causing the downfall of NK cells in patients. The release of inhibitory factors by tumor microenvironment hinders normal function of NK cells against tumor. To overcome this challenge, therapeutic strategies such as cytokine stimulation and genetic manipulation are being investigated to improve NK tumor-killing capacity. One of the promising approaches includes generation of more competent NK cells via ex vivo cytokines activation and proliferation. Cytokine-induced ML-NK demonstrated phenotypic alterations such as enhanced expression of activating receptors which help elevate their antitumor response. Previous preclinical studies showed enhanced cytotoxicity and IFNγ production in ML-NK cells compared to normal NK cells against malignant cells. Similar effects are shown in clinical studies in which MK-NK demonstrated encouraging results in treating hematological cancer. However, there is still a lack of in-depth studies using ML-NK in treating different types of tumors and cancers. With convincing preliminary response, this cell-based approach could be used to complement other therapeutic modalities to achieve better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Yan Foo
- Department of Research and Development, CELLAAX Sdn Bhd, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Angelina Tiah
- Department of Research and Development, CELLAAX Sdn Bhd, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
- Beike 23 Century Laboratory, 23 Century International Life Science Centre, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Shuh Wen Aung
- Beike 23 Century Laboratory, 23 Century International Life Science Centre, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
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32
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D’Silva SZ, Singh M, Pinto AS. NK cell defects: implication in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1112059. [PMID: 37228595 PMCID: PMC10203541 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1112059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a complex disease with rapid progression and poor/unsatisfactory outcomes. In the past few years, the focus has been on developing newer therapies for AML; however, relapse remains a significant problem. Natural Killer cells have strong anti-tumor potential against AML. This NK-mediated cytotoxicity is often restricted by cellular defects caused by disease-associated mechanisms, which can lead to disease progression. A stark feature of AML is the low/no expression of the cognate HLA ligands for the activating KIR receptors, due to which these tumor cells evade NK-mediated lysis. Recently, different Natural Killer cell therapies have been implicated in treating AML, such as the adoptive NK cell transfer, Chimeric antigen receptor-modified NK (CAR-NK) cell therapy, antibodies, cytokine, and drug treatment. However, the data available is scarce, and the outcomes vary between different transplant settings and different types of leukemia. Moreover, remission achieved by some of these therapies is only for a short time. In this mini-review, we will discuss the role of NK cell defects in AML progression, particularly the expression of different cell surface markers, the available NK cell therapies, and the results from various preclinical and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Z. D’Silva
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Meenakshi Singh
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Andrea S. Pinto
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
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33
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Bareke H, Ibáñez-Navarro A, Guerra-García P, González Pérez C, Rubio-Aparicio P, Plaza López de Sabando D, Sastre-Urgelles A, Ortiz-Cruz EJ, Pérez-Martínez A. Prospects and Advances in Adoptive Natural Killer Cell Therapy for Unmet Therapeutic Needs in Pediatric Bone Sarcomas. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098324. [PMID: 37176035 PMCID: PMC10178897 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098324] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant bone tumors are aggressive tumors, with a high tendency to metastasize, that are observed most frequently in adolescents during rapid growth spurts. Pediatric patients with malignant bone sarcomas, Ewing sarcoma and osteosarcoma, who present with progressive disease have dire survival rates despite aggressive therapy. These therapies can have long-term effects on bone growth, such as decreased bone mineral density and reduced longitudinal growth. New therapeutic approaches are therefore urgently needed for targeting pediatric malignant bone tumors. Harnessing the power of the immune system against cancer has improved the survival rates dramatically in certain cancer types. Natural killer (NK) cells are a heterogeneous group of innate effector cells that possess numerous antitumor effects, such as cytolysis and cytokine production. Pediatric sarcoma cells have been shown to be especially susceptible to NK-cell-mediated killing. NK-cell adoptive therapy confers numerous advantages over T-cell adoptive therapy, including a good safety profile and a lack of major histocompatibility complex restriction. NK-cell immunotherapy has the potential to be a new therapy for pediatric malignant bone tumors. In this manuscript, we review the general characteristics of osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, discuss the long-term effects of sarcoma treatment on bones, and the barriers to effective immunotherapy in bone sarcomas. We then present the laboratory and clinical studies on NK-cell immunotherapy for pediatric malignant bone tumors. We discuss the various donor sources and NK-cell types, the engineering of NK cells and combinatorial treatment approaches that are being studied to overcome the current challenges in adoptive NK-cell therapy, while suggesting approaches for future studies on NK-cell immunotherapy in pediatric bone tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halin Bareke
- Translational Research Group in Pediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián Ibáñez-Navarro
- Translational Research Group in Pediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Guerra-García
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos González Pérez
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Rubio-Aparicio
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ana Sastre-Urgelles
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo José Ortiz-Cruz
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Pérez-Martínez
- Translational Research Group in Pediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, 28046 Madrid, Spain
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34
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Lizana-Vasquez GD, Torres-Lugo M, Dixon R, Powderly JD, Warin RF. The application of autologous cancer immunotherapies in the age of memory-NK cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167666. [PMID: 37205105 PMCID: PMC10185894 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular immunotherapy has revolutionized the oncology field, yielding improved results against hematological and solid malignancies. NK cells have become an attractive alternative due to their capacity to activate upon recognition of "stress" or "danger" signals independently of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) engagement, thus making tumor cells a perfect target for NK cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy even as an allogeneic solution. While this allogeneic use is currently favored, the existence of a characterized memory function for NK cells ("memory-like" NK cells) advocates for an autologous approach, that would benefit from the allogeneic setting discoveries, but with added persistence and specificity. Still, both approaches struggle to exert a sustained and high anticancer effect in-vivo due to the immunosuppressive tumor micro-environment and the logistical challenges of cGMP production or clinical deployment. Novel approaches focused on the quality enhancement and the consistent large-scale production of highly activated therapeutic memory-like NK cells have yielded encouraging but still unconclusive results. This review provides an overview of NK biology as it relates to cancer immunotherapy and the challenge presented by solid tumors for therapeutic NKs. After contrasting the autologous and allogeneic NK approaches for solid cancer immunotherapy, this work will present the current scientific focus for the production of highly persistent and cytotoxic memory-like NK cells as well as the current issues with production methods as they apply to stress-sensitive immune cells. In conclusion, autologous NK cells for cancer immunotherapy appears to be a prime alternative for front line therapeutics but to be successful, it will be critical to establish comprehensives infrastructures allowing the production of extremely potent NK cells while constraining costs of production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaby D. Lizana-Vasquez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - Madeline Torres-Lugo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
| | - R. Brent Dixon
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - John D. Powderly
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - Renaud F. Warin
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
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The infusion of ex vivo, interleukin-15 and -21-activated donor NK cells after haploidentical HCT in high-risk AML and MDS patients-a randomized trial. Leukemia 2023; 37:807-819. [PMID: 36932165 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-023-01849-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Clinical effect of donor-derived natural killer cell infusion (DNKI) after HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) was evaluated in high-risk myeloid malignancy in phase 2, randomized trial. Seventy-six evaluable patients (aged 21-70 years) were randomized to receive DNKI (N = 40) or not (N = 36) after haploidentical HCT. For the HCT conditioning, busulfan, fludarabine, and anti-thymocyte globulin were administered. DNKI was given twice 13 and 20 days after HCT. Four patients in the DNKI group failed to receive DNKI. In the remaining 36 patients, median DNKI doses were 1.0 × 108/kg and 1.4 × 108/kg on days 13 and 20, respectively. Intention-to-treat analysis showed a lower disease progression for the DNKI group (30-month cumulative incidence, 35% vs 61%, P = 0.040; subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.50). Furthermore, at 3 months after HCT, the DNKI patients showed a 1.8- and 2.6-fold higher median absolute blood count of NK and T cells, respectively. scRNA-sequencing analysis in seven study patients showed that there was a marked increase in memory-like NK cells in DNKI patients which, in turn, expanded the CD8+ effector-memory T cells. In high-risk myeloid malignancy, DNKI after haploidentical HCT reduced disease progression. This enhanced graft-vs-leukemia effect may be related to the DNKI-induced, post-HCT expansion of NK and T cells. Clinical trial number: NCT02477787.
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Berrien-Elliott MM, Jacobs MT, Fehniger TA. Allogeneic natural killer cell therapy. Blood 2023; 141:856-868. [PMID: 36416736 PMCID: PMC10023727 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022016200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Interest in adoptive cell therapy for treating cancer is exploding owing to early clinical successes of autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T lymphocyte therapy. However, limitations using T cells and autologous cell products are apparent as they (1) take weeks to generate, (2) utilize a 1:1 donor-to-patient model, (3) are expensive, and (4) are prone to heterogeneity and manufacturing failures. CAR T cells are also associated with significant toxicities, including cytokine release syndrome, immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome, and prolonged cytopenias. To overcome these issues, natural killer (NK) cells are being explored as an alternative cell source for allogeneic cell therapies. NK cells have an inherent ability to recognize cancers, mediate immune functions of killing and communication, and do not induce graft-versus-host disease, cytokine release syndrome, or immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome. NK cells can be obtained from blood or cord blood or be derived from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, and can be expanded and cryopreserved for off-the-shelf availability. The first wave of point-of-care NK cell therapies led to the current allogeneic NK cell products being investigated in clinical trials with promising preliminary results. Basic advances in NK cell biology and cellular engineering have led to new translational strategies to block inhibition, enhance and broaden target cell recognition, optimize functional persistence, and provide stealth from patients' immunity. This review details NK cell biology, as well as NK cell product manufacturing, engineering, and combination therapies explored in the clinic leading to the next generation of potent, off-the-shelf cellular therapies for blood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miriam T. Jacobs
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Todd A. Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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Iyoda T, Yamasaki S, Ueda S, Shimizu K, Fujii SI. Natural Killer T and Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy Strategies Targeting Cancer. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020348. [PMID: 36830717 PMCID: PMC9953375 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Both natural killer T (NKT) and natural killer (NK) cells are innate cytotoxic lymphoid cells that produce inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and their role in the innate immune response to tumors and microorganisms has been investigated. Especially, emerging evidence has revealed their status and function in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of tumor cells. Some bacteria producing NKT cell ligands have been identified to exert antitumor effects, even in the TME. By contrast, tumor-derived lipids or metabolites may reportedly suppress NKT and NK cells in situ. Since NKT and NK cells recognize stress-inducible molecules or inhibitory molecules on cancer cells, their status or function depends on the balance between inhibitory and activating receptor signals. As a recent strategy in cancer immunotherapy, the mobilization or restoration of endogenous NKT or NK cells by novel vaccines or therapies has become a focus of research. As a new biological evidence, after activation, effector memory-type NKT cells lasted in tumor-bearing models, and NK cell-based immune checkpoint inhibition potentiated the enhancement of NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells in preclinical and clinical trials. Furthermore, several new modalities based on the characteristics of NKT and NK cells, including artificial adjuvant vector cells, chimeric antigen receptor-expressing NK or NKT cell therapy, or their combination with immune checkpoint blockade have been developed. This review examines challenges and future directions for improving these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Iyoda
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Satoru Yamasaki
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Shogo Ueda
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
- RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
- Correspondence: (K.S.); (S.F.); Tel.:+ 81-45-503-7062 (S.F.); Fax: +81-45-503-7061 (S.F.)
| | - Shin-ichiro Fujii
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
- RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
- Correspondence: (K.S.); (S.F.); Tel.:+ 81-45-503-7062 (S.F.); Fax: +81-45-503-7061 (S.F.)
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Mace EM. Human natural killer cells: Form, function, and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 151:371-385. [PMID: 36195172 PMCID: PMC9905317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Human natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that mediate important effector functions in the control of viral infection and malignancy. Their ability to distinguish "self" from "nonself" and lyse virally infected and tumorigenic cells through germline-encoded receptors makes them important players in maintaining human health and a powerful tool for immunotherapeutic applications and fighting disease. This review introduces our current understanding of NK cell biology, including key facets of NK cell differentiation and the acquisition and execution of NK cell effector function. Further, it addresses the clinical relevance of NK cells in both primary immunodeficiency and immunotherapy. It is intended to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of this important and interesting innate immune effector cell subset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Mace
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York.
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Morimoto T, Nakazawa T, Maeoka R, Nakagawa I, Tsujimura T, Matsuda R. Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy against Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032111. [PMID: 36768432 PMCID: PMC9916747 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Despite multimodality treatment involving surgical resection, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and tumor-treating fields, the median overall survival (OS) after diagnosis is approximately 2 years and the 5-year OS is poor. Considering the poor prognosis, novel treatment strategies are needed, such as immunotherapies, which include chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, vaccine therapy, and oncolytic virus therapy. However, these therapies have not achieved satisfactory outcomes. One reason for this is that these therapies are mainly based on activating T cells and controlling GBM progression. Natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy involves the new feature of recognizing GBM via differing mechanisms from that of T cell-based immunotherapy. In this review, we focused on NK cell-based immunotherapy as a novel GBM treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Morimoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara City Hospital, Nara 630-8305, Japan
- Correspondence: (T.M.); (T.N.); Tel.: +81-744-22-3051 (T.M.); +81-745-84-9335 (T.N.)
| | - Tsutomu Nakazawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan
- Grandsoul Research Institute for Immunology, Inc., Uda 633-2221, Japan
- Clinic Grandsoul Nara, Uda 633-2221, Japan
- Correspondence: (T.M.); (T.N.); Tel.: +81-744-22-3051 (T.M.); +81-745-84-9335 (T.N.)
| | - Ryosuke Maeoka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Ichiro Nakagawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tsujimura
- Grandsoul Research Institute for Immunology, Inc., Uda 633-2221, Japan
- Clinic Grandsoul Nara, Uda 633-2221, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Matsuda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan
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40
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Yang K, Zhao Y, Sun G, Zhang X, Cao J, Shao M, Liang X, Wang L. Clinical application and prospect of immune checkpoint inhibitors for CAR-NK cell in tumor immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1081546. [PMID: 36741400 PMCID: PMC9892943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1081546] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering of natural killer (NK) cells is an attractive research field in tumor immunotherapy. While CAR is genetically engineered to express certain molecules, it retains the intrinsic ability to recognize tumor cells through its own receptors. Additionally, NK cells do not depend on T cell receptors for cytotoxic killing. CAR-NK cells exhibit some differences to CAR-T cells in terms of more precise killing, numerous cell sources, and increased effectiveness in solid tumors. However, some problems still exist with CAR-NK cell therapy, such as cytotoxicity, low transfection efficiency, and storage issues. Immune checkpoints inhibit immune cells from performing their normal killing function, and the clinical application of immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer treatment has become a key therapeutic strategy. The application of CAR-T cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors is being evaluated in numerous ongoing basic research and clinical studies. Immune checkpoints may affect the function of CAR-NK cell therapy. In this review, we describe the combination of existing CAR-NK cell technology with immune checkpoint therapy and discuss the research of CAR-NK cell technology and future clinical treatments. We also summarize the progress of clinical trials of CAR-NK cells and immune checkpoint therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangdi Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuze Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanqun Sun
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinjin Cao
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingcong Shao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xijun Liang
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
| | - Lina Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
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41
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He B, Mai Q, Pang Y, Deng S, He Y, Xue R, Xu N, Zhou H, Liu X, Xuan L, Li C, Liu Q. Cytokines induced memory-like NK cells engineered to express CD19 CAR exhibit enhanced responses against B cell malignancies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1130442. [PMID: 37207215 PMCID: PMC10191231 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1130442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineered NK cells have been used for treating patients with relapsed and/or refractory B cell malignancies and show encouraging outcomes and safety profile. However, the poor persistence of NK cells remains a major challenge for CAR NK cell therapy. Memory-like NK cells (MLNK) induced by IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 have shown enhanced and prolonged responses to tumor re-stimulation, making them an attractive candidate for adoptive cellular immunotherapy. Here, we show efficient and stable gene delivery of CD19 CAR to memory-like NK cells using retroviral vectors with transduction efficiency comparable to those achieved with conventional NK cells. Analysis of surface molecules revealed a distinct phenotypic profile in CAR engineered memory-like NK cells (CAR MLNK), as evidenced by increased expression of CD94 and downregulation of NKp30 as well as KIR2DL1. Compared to conventional CAR NK cells, CAR MLNK cells exhibited significantly increased IFN-γ production and degranulation in response to CD19+ target cells, resulting in enhanced cytotoxic activity against CD19+ leukemia cells and lymphoma cells. Furthermore, memory properties induced by IL-12/-15/-18 improved the in vivo persistence of CAR MLNK cells and significantly suppressed tumor growth in a exnograft mouse model of lymphoma, leading to prolonged survival of CD19+ tumor-bearing mouse. Altogether, our data indicate that CD19 CAR engineered memory-like NK cells exhibited superior persistence and antitumor activity against CD19+ tumors, which might be an attractive approach for treating patient with relapse or refractory B cell malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailin He
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiusui Mai
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunyi Pang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shikai Deng
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi He
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongtao Xue
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Xu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongsheng Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Xuan
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengyao Li
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qifa Liu, ; Chengyao Li,
| | - Qifa Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qifa Liu, ; Chengyao Li,
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42
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[Progress in chimeric antigen receptor NK cell therapy for hematological malignancies]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2022; 43:1051-1056. [PMID: 36709115 PMCID: PMC9939332 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2022.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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43
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Al-Kadhimi Z, Callahan M, Fehniger T, Cole KE, Vose J, Hinrichs S. Enrichment of innate immune cells from PBMC followed by triple cytokine activation for adoptive immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109387. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Biederstädt A, Manzar GS, Daher M. Multiplexed engineering and precision gene editing in cellular immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1063303. [PMID: 36483551 PMCID: PMC9723254 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1063303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of cellular immunotherapy in the clinic has entirely redrawn the treatment landscape for a growing number of human cancers. Genetically reprogrammed immune cells, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified immune effector cells as well as T cell receptor (TCR) therapy, have demonstrated remarkable responses across different hard-to-treat patient populations. While these novel treatment options have had tremendous success in providing long-term remissions for a considerable fraction of treated patients, a number of challenges remain. Limited in vivo persistence and functional exhaustion of infused immune cells as well as tumor immune escape and on-target off-tumor toxicities are just some examples of the challenges which restrain the potency of today's genetically engineered cell products. Multiple engineering strategies are being explored to tackle these challenges.The advent of multiplexed precision genome editing has in recent years provided a flexible and highly modular toolkit to specifically address some of these challenges by targeted genetic interventions. This class of next-generation cellular therapeutics aims to endow engineered immune cells with enhanced functionality and shield them from immunosuppressive cues arising from intrinsic immune checkpoints as well as the hostile tumor microenvironment (TME). Previous efforts to introduce additional genetic modifications into immune cells have in large parts focused on nuclease-based tools like the CRISPR/Cas9 system or TALEN. However, nuclease-inactive platforms including base and prime editors have recently emerged and promise a potentially safer route to rewriting genetic sequences and introducing large segments of transgenic DNA without inducing double-strand breaks (DSBs). In this review, we discuss how these two exciting and emerging fields-cellular immunotherapy and precision genome editing-have co-evolved to enable a dramatic expansion in the possibilities to engineer personalized anti-cancer treatments. We will lay out how various engineering strategies in addition to nuclease-dependent and nuclease-inactive precision genome editing toolkits are increasingly being applied to overcome today's limitations to build more potent cellular therapeutics. We will reflect on how novel information-rich unbiased discovery approaches are continuously deepening our understanding of fundamental mechanisms governing tumor biology. We will conclude with a perspective of how multiplexed-engineered and gene edited cell products may upend today's treatment paradigms as they evolve into the next generation of more potent cellular immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Biederstädt
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gohar Shahwar Manzar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - May Daher
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Tumino N, Fiore PF, Pelosi A, Moretta L, Vacca P. Myeloid derived suppressor cells in tumor microenvironment: Interaction with innate lymphoid cells. Semin Immunol 2022; 61-64:101668. [PMID: 36370673 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101668] [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] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Human myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) represent a stage of immature myeloid cells and two main subsets can be identified: monocytic and polymorphonuclear. MDSC contribute to the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The presence and the activity of MDSC in patients with different tumors correlate with poor prognosis. As previously reported, MDSC promote tumor growth and use different mechanisms to suppress the immune cell-mediated anti-tumor activity. Immunosuppression mechanisms used by MDSC are broad and depend on their differentiation stage and on the pathological context. It is known that some effector cells of the immune system can play an important role in the control of tumor progression and metastatic spread. In particular, innate lymphoid cells (ILC) contribute to control tumor growth representing a potential, versatile and, immunotherapeutic tool. Despite promising results obtained by using new cellular immunotherapeutic approaches, a relevant proportion of patients do not benefit from these therapies. Novel strategies have been investigated to overcome the detrimental effect exerted by the immunosuppressive component of TME (i.e. MDSC). In this review, we summarized the characteristics and the interactions occurring between MDSC and ILC in different tumors discussing how a deeper knowledge on MDSC biology could represent an important target for tumor immunotherapy capable of decreasing immunosuppression and enhancing anti-tumor activity exerted by immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Tumino
- Innate lymphoid cells Unit, Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Andrea Pelosi
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Vacca
- Innate lymphoid cells Unit, Immunology Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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46
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Haroun-Izquierdo A, Vincenti M, Netskar H, van Ooijen H, Zhang B, Bendzick L, Kanaya M, Momayyezi P, Li S, Wiiger MT, Hoel HJ, Krokeide SZ, Kremer V, Tjonnfjord G, Berggren S, Wikström K, Blomberg P, Alici E, Felices M, Önfelt B, Höglund P, Valamehr B, Ljunggren HG, Björklund A, Hammer Q, Kveberg L, Cichocki F, Miller JS, Malmberg KJ, Sohlberg E. Adaptive single-KIR +NKG2C + NK cells expanded from select superdonors show potent missing-self reactivity and efficiently control HLA-mismatched acute myeloid leukemia. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005577. [PMID: 36319065 PMCID: PMC9628692 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells hold great promise as a source for allogeneic cell therapy against hematological malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Current treatments are hampered by variability in NK cell subset responses, a limitation which could be circumvented by specific expansion of highly potent single killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR)+NKG2C+ adaptive NK cells to maximize missing-self reactivity. METHODS We developed a GMP-compliant protocol to expand adaptive NK cells from cryopreserved cells derived from select third-party superdonors, that is, donors harboring large adaptive NK cell subsets with desired KIR specificities at baseline. We studied the adaptive state of the cell product (ADAPT-NK) by flow cytometry and mass cytometry as well as cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing (CITE-Seq). We investigated the functional responses of ADAPT-NK cells against a wide range of tumor target cell lines and primary AML samples using flow cytometry and IncuCyte as well as in a mouse model of AML. RESULTS ADAPT-NK cells were >90% pure with a homogeneous expression of a single self-HLA specific KIR and expanded a median of 470-fold. The ADAPT-NK cells largely retained their adaptive transcriptional signature with activation of effector programs without signs of exhaustion. ADAPT-NK cells showed high degranulation capacity and efficient killing of HLA-C/KIR mismatched tumor cell lines as well as primary leukemic blasts from AML patients. Finally, the expanded adaptive NK cells had preserved robust antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity potential and combination of ADAPT-NK cells with an anti-CD16/IL-15/anti-CD33 tri-specific engager led to near-complete killing of resistant CD45dim blast subtypes. CONCLUSIONS These preclinical data demonstrate the feasibility of off-the-shelf therapy with a non-engineered, yet highly specific, NK cell population with full missing-self recognition capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Haroun-Izquierdo
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianna Vincenti
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Herman Netskar
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanna van Ooijen
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bin Zhang
- University of Minnesota, Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Laura Bendzick
- University of Minnesota, Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Minoru Kanaya
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Pouria Momayyezi
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shuo Li
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Merete Thune Wiiger
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanna Julie Hoel
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Silje Zandstra Krokeide
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Veronika Kremer
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Geir Tjonnfjord
- Department of Hematology, Oslo University Hospital and K.G. Jebsen Centre for B-cell malignancies, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stéphanie Berggren
- Vecura, Karolinska Center for Cell Therapy Clinical Research Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Wikström
- Vecura, Karolinska Center for Cell Therapy Clinical Research Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pontus Blomberg
- Vecura, Karolinska Center for Cell Therapy Clinical Research Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Evren Alici
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Felices
- University of Minnesota, Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Björn Önfelt
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Petter Höglund
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Björklund
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cellular Therapy and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Quirin Hammer
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lise Kveberg
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Frank Cichocki
- University of Minnesota, Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- University of Minnesota, Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Karl-Johan Malmberg
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ebba Sohlberg
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Grottoli M, Carrega P, Zullo L, Dellepiane C, Rossi G, Parisi F, Barletta G, Zinoli L, Coco S, Alama A, Marconi S, Parodi M, Orecchia P, Bassi S, Vitale M, Mingari MC, Pfeffer U, Genova C, Pietra G. Immune Checkpoint Blockade: A Strategy to Unleash the Potential of Natural Killer Cells in the Anti-Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205046. [PMID: 36291830 PMCID: PMC9599824 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205046] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) with antibodies targeting CTLA-4 (Cytotoxic Lymphocyte Antigen 4) and/or programmed death-1 protein (PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) has significantly modified the therapeutic landscape of a broad range of human tumor types, including advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite great advances of checkpoint immunotherapies, a minority of NSCLC patients (<20%) respond and/or experience long-term clinical benefits from these treatments. Limited response rates of T cell–based checkpoint immunotherapies suggest the presence of other checkpoints able to inhibit effective anti-tumor immune responses. Natural Killer (NK) cells represent a promising target for tumor immunotherapies, particularly against tumors that escape T-cell-mediated control. Like T cell function, NK cell function is also regulated by inhibitory immune-checkpoint molecules. In this review, we will provide an overview of the rationale, mechanisms of action, and clinical efficacy of these NK cell-based checkpoint therapy approaches. Finally, the future directions and current enhancements planned will be discussed. Abstract Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) immunotherapy has represented a breakthrough in cancer treatment. Clinical use of ICIs has shown an acceptable safety profile and promising antitumor activity. Nevertheless, some patients do not obtain clinical benefits after ICIs therapy. In order to improve and cure an increasing number of patients, the field has moved toward the discovery of new ICIs expressed by cells of innate immunity with an elevated inherent antitumor activity, such as natural killer cells. This review will focus on the recent findings concerning the role of classical and non-classical immune checkpoint molecules and receptors that regulate natural killer cell function, as potential targets, and their future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melania Grottoli
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Carrega
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Lodovica Zullo
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Dellepiane
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rossi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Parisi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Barletta
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Linda Zinoli
- DiMI, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Coco
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Angela Alama
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Marconi
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Monica Parodi
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Sara Bassi
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- DiMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Ulrich Pfeffer
- Laboratory of Tumor Epigenetics IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Carlo Genova
- DiMI, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
- UO Clinica di Oncologia Medica IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- DiMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (G.P.)
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells comprise a unique population of innate lymphoid cells endowed with intrinsic abilities to identify and eliminate virally infected cells and tumour cells. Possessing multiple cytotoxicity mechanisms and the ability to modulate the immune response through cytokine production, NK cells play a pivotal role in anticancer immunity. This role was elucidated nearly two decades ago, when NK cells, used as immunotherapeutic agents, showed safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients with advanced-stage leukaemia. In recent years, following the paradigm-shifting successes of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered adoptive T cell therapy and the advancement in technologies that can turn cells into powerful antitumour weapons, the interest in NK cells as a candidate for immunotherapy has grown exponentially. Strategies for the development of NK cell-based therapies focus on enhancing NK cell potency and persistence through co-stimulatory signalling, checkpoint inhibition and cytokine armouring, and aim to redirect NK cell specificity to the tumour through expression of CAR or the use of engager molecules. In the clinic, the first generation of NK cell therapies have delivered promising results, showing encouraging efficacy and remarkable safety, thus driving great enthusiasm for continued innovation. In this Review, we describe the various approaches to augment NK cell cytotoxicity and longevity, evaluate challenges and opportunities, and reflect on how lessons learned from the clinic will guide the design of next-generation NK cell products that will address the unique complexities of each cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara J Laskowski
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexander Biederstädt
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine III: Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Valeri A, García-Ortiz A, Castellano E, Córdoba L, Maroto-Martín E, Encinas J, Leivas A, Río P, Martínez-López J. Overcoming tumor resistance mechanisms in CAR-NK cell therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:953849. [PMID: 35990652 PMCID: PMC9381932 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.953849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the impressive results of autologous CAR-T cell therapy in refractory B lymphoproliferative diseases, CAR-NK immunotherapy emerges as a safer, faster, and cost-effective approach with no signs of severe toxicities as described for CAR-T cells. Permanently scrutinized for its efficacy, recent promising data in CAR-NK clinical trials point out the achievement of deep, high-quality responses, thus confirming its potential clinical use. Although CAR-NK cell therapy is not significantly affected by the loss or downregulation of its CAR tumor target, as in the case of CAR-T cell, a plethora of common additional tumor intrinsic or extrinsic mechanisms that could also disable NK cell function have been described. Therefore, considering lessons learned from CAR-T cell therapy, the emergence of CAR-NK cell therapy resistance can also be envisioned. In this review we highlight the processes that could be involved in its development, focusing on cytokine addiction and potential fratricide during manufacturing, poor tumor trafficking, exhaustion within the tumor microenvironment (TME), and NK cell short in vivo persistence on account of the limited expansion, replicative senescence, and rejection by patient’s immune system after lymphodepletion recovery. Finally, we outline new actively explored alternatives to overcome these resistance mechanisms, with a special emphasis on CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genetic engineering approaches, a promising platform to optimize CAR-NK cell function to eradicate refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Valeri
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena García-Ortiz
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Castellano
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Córdoba
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Maroto-Martín
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jessica Encinas
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Leivas
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Río
- Division of Hematopoietic Innovative Therapies, Biomedical Innovation Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Martínez-López
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Joaquín Martínez-López,
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50
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Natural killer cell awakening: unleash cancer-immunity cycle against glioblastoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:588. [PMID: 35803912 PMCID: PMC9270460 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05041-y] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Due to the negligence of the complex tumor immune microenvironment, traditional treatment for glioblastoma has reached its limitation and cannot achieve a satisfying outcome in the past decade. The emergence of immunotherapy based on the theory of cancer-immunity cycle has brought a new dawn to glioblastoma patients. However, the results of most phase II and phase III clinical trials are not optimistic due to the simple focus on T cells activation rather than other immune cells involved in anti-tumor immunity. NK cells play a critical role in both innate and adaptive immunity, having the ability to coordinate immune response in inflammation, autoimmune disease and cancer. They are expected to cooperate with T cells to maximize the anti-tumor immune effect and have great potential in treating glioblastoma. Here, we describe the traditional treatment methods and current immunotherapy strategies for glioblastoma. Then, we list a microenvironment map and discuss the reasons for glioblastoma inhibitory immunity from multiple perspectives. More importantly, we focus on the advantages of NK cells as potential immune regulatory cells and the ways to maximize their anti-tumor immune effect. Finally, our outlook on the directions and potential applications of NK cell-based therapy combining with the advance technologies is presented. This review depicts NK cell awakening as the precondition to unleash the cancer-immunity cycle against glioblastoma and elaborate this idea from biology to clinical treatment.
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