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Zewdie EY, Edwards GM, Hunter DM, Earp HS, Holtzhausen A. MerTK Induces Dysfunctional Dendritic Cells by Metabolic Reprogramming. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:1268-1285. [PMID: 38976507 PMCID: PMC11371516 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0666] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Checkpoint inhibitors, specifically anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), have shown success in treating metastatic melanoma; however, some patients develop resistance. Dendritic cells (DC) play a key role in initiating an immune response, but in certain circumstances they become ineffective. We investigated the role of MerTK, a receptor tyrosine kinase responsible for myeloid cell clearance of dead cells, in the regulation of DC function and metabolism in the tumor microenvironment. Tumors resistant to anti-PD1 exhibited increased levels of MerTK+ DCs. Treating wild-type DCs with apoptotic melanoma cells in vitro resulted in increased MerTK expression, elevated mitochondrial respiration and fatty acid oxidation, and reduced T-cell stimulatory capacity, all characteristics of dysfunctional DCs. In contrast, dead cells had only limited effect on the metabolism of MerTK-deficient DCs, which instead maintained an antigen-presenting, stimulatory phenotype. The efficacy of anti-PD1 to slow tumor progression and induce antigen specific T-cell infiltration was markedly increased in mice with selective ablation of MerTK in the DC compartment, suggesting the possibility of therapeutically targeting MerTK to modulate DC metabolism and function and enhance anti-PD1 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden Y Zewdie
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - George M Edwards
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Debra M Hunter
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Henry Shelton Earp
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Alisha Holtzhausen
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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2
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Zou Z, Luo T, Wang X, Wang B, Li Q. Exploring the interplay between triple-negative breast cancer stem cells and tumor microenvironment for effective therapeutic strategies. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31278. [PMID: 38807378 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31278] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and metastatic malignancy with poor treatment outcomes. The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) plays an important role in the development of TNBC. Owing to their ability of self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation, BCSCs maintain tumor growth, drive metastatic colonization, and facilitate the development of drug resistance. TME is the main factor regulating the phenotype and metastasis of BCSCs. Immune cells, cancer-related fibroblasts (CAFs), cytokines, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, and extracellular matrix within the TME form a complex communication network, exert highly selective pressure on the tumor, and provide a conducive environment for the formation of BCSC niches. Tumor growth and metastasis can be controlled by targeting the TME to eliminate BCSC niches or targeting BCSCs to modify the TME. These approaches may improve the treatment outcomes and possess great application potential in clinical settings. In this review, we summarized the relationship between BCSCs and the progression and drug resistance of TNBC, especially focusing on the interaction between BCSCs and TME. In addition, we discussed therapeutic strategies that target the TME to inhibit or eliminate BCSCs, providing valuable insights into the clinical treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoling Zou
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tinglan Luo
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Chongqing Medicine University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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3
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Alharthi S, Alavi SZ, Nisa MU, Koohi M, Raza A, Ebrahimi Shahmabadi H, Alavi SE. Developing Engineered Nano-Immunopotentiators for the Stimulation of Dendritic Cells and Inhibition and Prevention of Melanoma. Pharm Res 2024; 41:1163-1181. [PMID: 38839718 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-024-03722-1] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to utilize PEGylated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles as a delivery system for simultaneous administration of the BRAFV600E peptide, a tumor-specific antigen, and imiquimod (IMQ). The objective is to stimulate dendritic cell (DC) maturation, activate macrophages, and facilitate antigen presentation in C57BL6 mice. METHODS PEG-PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E nanoparticles were synthesized using a PLGA-PEG-PLGA tri-block copolymer, BRAFV600E, and IMQ. Characterization included size measurement and drug release profiling. Efficacy was assessed in inhibiting BPD6 melanoma cell growth and activating immature bone marrow DCs, T cells, macrophages, and splenocyte cells through MTT and ELISA assays. In vivo, therapeutic and immunogenic effects potential was evaluated, comparing it to IMQ + BRAFV600E and PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E nanoparticles in inhibiting subcutaneous BPD6 tumor growth. RESULTS The results highlight the successful synthesis of PEG-PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E nanoparticles (203 ± 11.1 nm), releasing 73.4% and 63.2% of IMQ and BARFV600E, respectively, within the initial 48 h. In vitro, these nanoparticles demonstrated a 1.3-fold increase in potency against BPD6 cells, achieving ~ 2.8-fold enhanced cytotoxicity compared to PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E. Moreover, PEG-PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E exhibited a 1.3-fold increase in potency for enhancing IMQ cytotoxic effects and a 1.1- to ~ 2.4-fold increase in activating DCs, T cells, macrophages, and splenocyte cells compared to IMQ-BRAFV600E and PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E. In vivo, PEG-PLGA-IMQ-BRAFV600E displayed a 1.3- to 7.5-fold increase in potency for inhibiting subcutaneous BPD6 tumor growth compared to the other formulations. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that PEG-PLGA nanoparticles effectively promote DC maturation, T cell activation, and potentially macrophage activation. The study highlights the promising role of this nanocomposite in vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitah Alharthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Al-Dawadmi Campus, Al-Dawadmi, 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seyed Zeinab Alavi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, 7718175911, Iran
| | - Mehr Un Nisa
- Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan, 60000, Pakistan
| | - Maedeh Koohi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, 7718175911, Iran
| | - Aun Raza
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, PR China
| | - Hasan Ebrahimi Shahmabadi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, 7718175911, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ebrahim Alavi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, 7718175911, Iran.
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4
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Plebanek MP, Xue Y, Nguyen YV, DeVito NC, Wang X, Holtzhausen A, Beasley GM, Theivanthiran B, Hanks BA. A lactate-SREBP2 signaling axis drives tolerogenic dendritic cell maturation and promotes cancer progression. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadi4191. [PMID: 38728412 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adi4191] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Conventional dendritic cells (DCs) are essential mediators of antitumor immunity. As a result, cancers have developed poorly understood mechanisms to render DCs dysfunctional within the tumor microenvironment (TME). After identification of CD63 as a specific surface marker, we demonstrate that mature regulatory DCs (mregDCs) migrate to tumor-draining lymph node tissues and suppress DC antigen cross-presentation in trans while promoting T helper 2 and regulatory T cell differentiation. Transcriptional and metabolic studies showed that mregDC functionality is dependent on the mevalonate biosynthetic pathway and its master transcription factor, SREBP2. We found that melanoma-derived lactate activates SREBP2 in tumor DCs and drives conventional DC transformation into mregDCs via homeostatic or tolerogenic maturation. DC-specific genetic silencing and pharmacologic inhibition of SREBP2 promoted antitumor CD8+ T cell activation and suppressed melanoma progression. CD63+ mregDCs were found to reside within the lymph nodes of several preclinical tumor models and in the sentinel lymph nodes of patients with melanoma. Collectively, this work suggests that a tumor lactate-stimulated SREBP2-dependent program promotes CD63+ mregDC development and function while serving as a promising therapeutic target for overcoming immune tolerance in the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Plebanek
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Yue Xue
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Y-Van Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Nicholas C DeVito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Xueying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Alisha Holtzhausen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Georgia M Beasley
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Balamayooran Theivanthiran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Brent A Hanks
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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5
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Fu C, Wang J, Ma T, Yin C, Zhou L, Clausen BE, Mi QS, Jiang A. β-Catenin in Dendritic Cells Negatively Regulates CD8 T Cell Immune Responses through the Immune Checkpoint Molecule Tim-3. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:460. [PMID: 38793711 PMCID: PMC11125945 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12050460] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that β-catenin in dendritic cells (DCs) serves as a key mediator in promoting both CD4 and CD8 T cell tolerance, although the mechanisms underlying how β-catenin exerts its functions remain incompletely understood. Here, we report that activation of β-catenin leads to the up-regulation of inhibitory molecule T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) in type 1 conventional DCs (cDC1s). Using a cDC1-targeted vaccine model with anti-DEC-205 engineered to express the melanoma antigen human gp100 (anti-DEC-205-hgp100), we demonstrated that CD11c-β-cateninactive mice exhibited impaired cross-priming and memory responses of gp100-specific CD8 T (Pmel-1) cells upon immunization with anti-DEC-205-hgp100. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that β-catenin in DCs negatively regulated transcription programs for effector function and proliferation of primed Pmel-1 cells, correlating with suppressed CD8 T cell immunity in CD11c-β-cateninactive mice. Further experiments showed that treating CD11c-β-cateninactive mice with an anti-Tim-3 antibody upon anti-DEC-205-hgp100 vaccination led to restored cross-priming and memory responses of gp100-specific CD8 T cells, suggesting that anti-Tim-3 treatment likely synergizes with DC vaccines to improve their efficacy. Indeed, treating B16F10-bearing mice with DC vaccines using anti-DEC-205-hgp100 in combination with anti-Tim-3 treatment resulted in significantly reduced tumor growth compared with treatment with the DC vaccine alone. Taken together, we identified the β-catenin/Tim-3 axis as a potentially novel mechanism to inhibit anti-tumor CD8 T cell immunity and that combination immunotherapy of a DC-targeted vaccine with anti-Tim-3 treatment leads to improved anti-tumor efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Fu
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jie Wang
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Tianle Ma
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA;
| | - Congcong Yin
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Li Zhou
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Björn E. Clausen
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Paul Klein Center for Immune Intervention, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Qing-Sheng Mi
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Aimin Jiang
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (C.F.); (J.W.); (C.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Immunology Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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DeVito NC, Nguyen YV, Sturdivant M, Plebanek MP, Howell K, Yarla N, Jain V, Aksu M, Beasley G, Theivanthiran B, Hanks BA. Gli2 Facilitates Tumor Immune Evasion and Immunotherapeutic Resistance by Coordinating Wnt Ligand and Prostaglandin Signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.31.587500. [PMID: 38617347 PMCID: PMC11014473 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.31.587500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Therapeutic resistance to immune checkpoint blockade has been commonly linked to the process of mesenchymal transformation (MT) and remains a prevalent obstacle across many cancer types. An improved mechanistic understanding for MT-mediated immune evasion promises to lead to more effective combination therapeutic regimens. Herein, we identify the Hedgehog transcription factor, Gli2, as a key node of tumor-mediated immune evasion and immunotherapy resistance during MT. Mechanistic studies reveal that Gli2 generates an immunotolerant tumor microenvironment through the upregulation of Wnt ligand production and increased prostaglandin synthesis. This pathway drives the recruitment, viability, and function of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) while also impairing type I conventional dendritic cell, CD8 + T cell, and NK cell functionality. Pharmacologic EP2/EP4 prostaglandin receptor inhibition and Wnt ligand inhibition each reverses a subset of these effects, while preventing primary and adaptive resistance to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, respectively. A transcriptional Gli2 signature correlates with resistance to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in stage IV melanoma patients, providing a translational roadmap to direct combination immunotherapeutics in the clinic. SIGNIFICANCE Gli2-induced EMT promotes immune evasion and immunotherapeutic resistance via coordinated prostaglandin and Wnt signaling.
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7
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Yin T, Wang G, Wang L, Mudgal P, Wang E, Pan CC, Alexander PB, Wu H, Cao C, Liang Y, Tan L, Huang D, Chong M, Chen R, Lim BJW, Xiang K, Xue W, Wan L, Hu H, Loh YH, Wang XF, Li QJ. Breaking NGF-TrkA immunosuppression in melanoma sensitizes immunotherapy for durable memory T cell protection. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:268-281. [PMID: 38195702 PMCID: PMC11377935 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01723-7] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma cells, deriving from neuroectodermal melanocytes, may exploit the nervous system's immune privilege for growth. Here we show that nerve growth factor (NGF) has both melanoma cell intrinsic and extrinsic immunosuppressive functions. Autocrine NGF engages tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) on melanoma cells to desensitize interferon γ signaling, leading to T and natural killer cell exclusion. In effector T cells that upregulate surface TrkA expression upon T cell receptor activation, paracrine NGF dampens T cell receptor signaling and effector function. Inhibiting NGF, either through genetic modification or with the tropomyosin receptor kinase inhibitor larotrectinib, renders melanomas susceptible to immune checkpoint blockade therapy and fosters long-term immunity by activating memory T cells with low affinity. These results identify the NGF-TrkA axis as an important suppressor of anti-tumor immunity and suggest larotrectinib might be repurposed for immune sensitization. Moreover, by enlisting low-affinity T cells, anti-NGF reduces acquired resistance to immune checkpoint blockade and prevents melanoma recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yin
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Guoping Wang
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Liuyang Wang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Ergang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christopher C Pan
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Yaosi Liang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lianmei Tan
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - De Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mengyang Chong
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- Hervor Therapeutics, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bryan Jian Wei Lim
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kun Xiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wei Xue
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixin Wan
- Department of Molecular Oncology and Cutaneous Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Hailan Hu
- Zhejiang University School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuin-Han Loh
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao-Fan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Qi-Jing Li
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore.
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore.
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8
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Chen C, Guo Q, Liu Y, Hou Q, Liao M, Guo Y, Zang Y, Wang F, Liu H, Luan X, Liang Y, Guan Z, Li Y, Liu H, Dong X, Zhang X, Liu J, Xu Q. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal POSTN + cancer-associated fibroblasts correlated with immune suppression and tumour progression in non-small cell lung cancer. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1515. [PMID: 38115703 PMCID: PMC10731139 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1515] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are potential targets for cancer therapy. Due to the heterogeneity of CAFs, the influence of CAF subpopulations on the progression of lung cancer is still unclear, which impedes the translational advances in targeting CAFs. METHODS We performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on tumour, paired tumour-adjacent, and normal samples from 16 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. CAF subpopulations were analyzed after integration with published NSCLC scRNA-seq data. SpaTial enhanced resolution omics-sequencing (Stereo-seq) was applied in tumour and tumour-adjacent samples from seven NSCLC patients to map the architecture of major cell populations in tumour microenvironment (TME). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and multiplexed IHC (mIHC) were used to validate marker gene expression and the association of CAFs with immune infiltration in TME. RESULTS A subcluster of myofibroblastic CAFs, POSTN+ CAFs, were significantly enriched in advanced tumours and presented gene expression signatures related to extracellular matrix remodeling, tumour invasion pathways and immune suppression. Stereo-seq and mIHC demonstrated that POSTN+ CAFs were in close localization with SPP1+ macrophages and were associated with the exhausted phenotype and lower infiltration of T cells. POSTN expression or the abundance of POSTN+ CAFs were associated with poor prognosis of NSCLC. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified a myofibroblastic CAF subpopulation, POSTN+ CAFs, which might associate with SPP1+ macrophages to promote the formation of desmoplastic architecture and participate in immune suppression. Furthermore, we showed that POSTN+ CAFs associated with cancer progression and poor clinical outcomes and may provide new insights on the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenChina
| | - Qiang Guo
- BGI ResearchHangzhouChina
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yang Liu
- BGI ResearchHangzhouChina
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Qinghua Hou
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenChina
| | - Mengying Liao
- Department of PathologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Yanying Guo
- BGI ResearchHangzhouChina
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
| | - Yupeng Zang
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | | | - Huanyu Liu
- Department of PathologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Xinyu Luan
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenChina
| | - Yanling Liang
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Zhuojue Guan
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yanling Li
- Central Laboratory of Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina
| | - Haozhen Liu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenChina
| | - Xuan Dong
- BGI ResearchHangzhouChina
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human Disease Genomics, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of GenomicsBGI ResearchShenzhenChina
| | - Xiuqing Zhang
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human Disease Genomics, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of GenomicsBGI ResearchShenzhenChina
| | - Jixian Liu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenChina
| | - Qumiao Xu
- BGI ResearchHangzhouChina
- BGI ResearchShenzhenChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human Disease Genomics, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of GenomicsBGI ResearchShenzhenChina
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9
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Lasorsa F, Rutigliano M, Milella M, Ferro M, Pandolfo SD, Crocetto F, Autorino R, Battaglia M, Ditonno P, Lucarelli G. Cancer Stem Cells in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Origins and Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13179. [PMID: 37685983 PMCID: PMC10487877 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The term "cancer stem cell" (CSC) refers to a cancer cell with the following features: clonogenic ability, the expression of stem cell markers, differentiation into cells of different lineages, growth in nonadhesive spheroids, and the in vivo ability to generate serially transplantable tumors that reflect the heterogeneity of primary cancers (tumorigenicity). According to this model, CSCs may arise from normal stem cells, progenitor cells, and/or differentiated cells because of striking genetic/epigenetic mutations or from the fusion of tissue-specific stem cells with circulating bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs). CSCs use signaling pathways similar to those controlling cell fate during early embryogenesis (Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), fibroblast growth factors, leukemia inhibitory factor, and transforming growth factor-β). Recent studies identified a subpopulation of CD133+/CD24+ cells from ccRCC specimens that displayed self-renewal ability and clonogenic multipotency. The development of agents targeting CSC signaling-specific pathways and not only surface proteins may ultimately become of utmost importance for patients with RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lasorsa
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Monica Rutigliano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Martina Milella
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Matteo Ferro
- Division of Urology, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 71013 Milan, Italy
| | - Savio Domenico Pandolfo
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Autorino
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Michele Battaglia
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Ditonno
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucarelli
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area-Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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10
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Czajka-Francuz P, Prendes MJ, Mankan A, Quintana Á, Pabla S, Ramkissoon S, Jensen TJ, Peiró S, Severson EA, Achyut BR, Vidal L, Poelman M, Saini KS. Mechanisms of immune modulation in the tumor microenvironment and implications for targeted therapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1200646. [PMID: 37427115 PMCID: PMC10325690 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1200646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of cancer therapies is limited to a great extent by immunosuppressive mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous immune escape mechanisms have been identified. These include not only processes associated with tumor, immune or stromal cells, but also humoral, metabolic, genetic and epigenetic factors within the TME. The identification of immune escape mechanisms has enabled the development of small molecules, nanomedicines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell and epigenetic therapies that can reprogram the TME and shift the host immune response towards promoting an antitumor effect. These approaches have translated into series of breakthroughs in cancer therapies, some of which have already been implemented in clinical practice. In the present article the authors provide an overview of some of the most important mechanisms of immunosuppression within the TME and the implications for targeted therapies against different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ángela Quintana
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Sandra Peiró
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Kamal S. Saini
- Fortrea, Inc., Durham, NC, United States
- Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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11
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Sammarco E, Manfredi F, Nuzzo A, Ferrari M, Bonato A, Salfi A, Serafin D, Zatteri L, Antonuzzo A, Galli L. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Rechallenge in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3172. [PMID: 37370782 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapies represent the current standard of care in the first-line treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma. Despite a clear benefit in survival outcomes, a considerable proportion of patients experience disease progression; prospective data about second-line therapy after first-line treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors are limited to small phase II studies. As with other solid tumors (such as melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer), preliminary data about the clinical efficacy of rechallenge of immunotherapy (alone or in combination with other drugs) in renal cell carcinoma are beginning to emerge. Nevertheless, the role of rechallenge in immunotherapy in this setting of disease remains unclear and cannot be considered a standard of care; currently some randomized trials are exploring this approach in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The aim of our review is to summarize main evidence available in the literature concerning immunotherapy rechallenge in renal carcinoma, especially focusing on biological rationale of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors, on the published data of clinical efficacy and on future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Sammarco
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Fiorella Manfredi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Amedeo Nuzzo
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Ferrari
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Adele Bonato
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessia Salfi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Debora Serafin
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Zatteri
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Antonuzzo
- Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Galli
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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12
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Pundkar C, Antony F, Kang X, Mishra A, Babu RJ, Chen P, Li F, Suryawanshi A. Targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling using XAV939 nanoparticles in tumor microenvironment-conditioned macrophages promote immunogenicity. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16688. [PMID: 37313143 PMCID: PMC10258387 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes malignant transformation, metastasis, immune evasion, and resistance to cancer treatments. The increased Wnt ligand expression in TME activates β-catenin signaling in antigen (Ag)-presenting cells (APCs) and regulates anti-tumor immunity. Previously, we showed that activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in dendritic cells (DCs) promotes induction of regulatory T cell responses over anti-tumor CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cell responses and promotes tumor progression. In addition to DCs, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) also serve as APCs and regulate anti-tumor immunity. However, the role of β-catenin activation and its effect on TAM immunogenicity in TME is largely undefined. In this study, we investigated whether inhibiting β-catenin in TME-conditioned macrophages promotes immunogenicity. Using nanoparticle formulation of XAV939 (XAV-Np), a tankyrase inhibitor that promotes β-catenin degradation, we performed in vitro macrophage co-culture assays with melanoma cells (MC) or melanoma cell supernatants (MCS) to investigate the effect on macrophage immunogenicity. We show that XAV-Np-treatment of macrophages conditioned with MC or MCS significantly upregulates the cell surface expression of CD80 and CD86 and suppresses the expression of PD-L1 and CD206 compared to MC or MCS-conditioned macrophages treated with control nanoparticle (Con-Np). Further, XAV-Np-treated macrophages conditioned with MC or MCS significantly increased IL-6 and TNF-α production, with reduced IL-10 production compared to Con-Np-treated macrophages. Moreover, the co-culture of MC and XAV-Np-treated macrophages with T cells resulted in increased CD8+ T cell proliferation compared to Con-Np-treated macrophages. These data suggest that targeted β-catenin inhibition in TAMs represents a promising therapeutic approach to promote anti-tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetan Pundkar
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ferrin Antony
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Xuejia Kang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Materials Research and Education Center, Materials Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Amarjit Mishra
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - R. Jayachandra Babu
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Pengyu Chen
- Materials Research and Education Center, Materials Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Amol Suryawanshi
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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13
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Kumar V, Stewart JH. Immunometabolic reprogramming, another cancer hallmark. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125874. [PMID: 37275901 PMCID: PMC10235624 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular carcinogenesis is a multistep process that involves acquired abnormalities in key biological processes. The complexity of cancer pathogenesis is best illustrated in the six hallmarks of the cancer: (1) the development of self-sufficient growth signals, (2) the emergence of clones that are resistant to apoptosis, (3) resistance to the antigrowth signals, (4) neo-angiogenesis, (5) the invasion of normal tissue or spread to the distant organs, and (6) limitless replicative potential. It also appears that non-resolving inflammation leads to the dysregulation of immune cell metabolism and subsequent cancer progression. The present article delineates immunometabolic reprogramming as a critical hallmark of cancer by linking chronic inflammation and immunosuppression to cancer growth and metastasis. We propose that targeting tumor immunometabolic reprogramming will lead to the design of novel immunotherapeutic approaches to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - John H. Stewart
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA, United States
- Louisiana State University- Louisiana Children’s Medical Center, Stanley S. Scott, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), New Orleans, LA, United States
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14
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Dulal D, Boring A, Terrero D, Johnson T, Tiwari AK, Raman D. Tackling of Immunorefractory Tumors by Targeting Alternative Immune Checkpoints. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2774. [PMID: 37345111 PMCID: PMC10216651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiologically, well known or traditional immune checkpoints (ICs), such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, are in place to promote tolerance to self-antigens and prevent generation of autoimmunity. In cancer, the ICs are effectively engaged by the tumor cells or stromal ells from the tumor microenvironment through expression of cognate ligands for the ICs present on the cell surface of CD8+ T lymphocytes. The ligation of ICs on CD8+ T lymphocytes triggers inhibitory signaling pathways, leading to quiescence or an exhaustion of CD8+ T lymphocytes. This results in failure of immunotherapy. To overcome this, several FDA-approved therapeutic antibodies are available, but the clinical outcome is quite variable due to the resistance encountered through upregulated expression of alternate ICs such as VISTA, LAG-3, TIGIT and TIM-3. This review focuses on the roles played by the traditional as well as alternate ICs and the contribution of associated signaling pathways in generating such resistance to immunotherapy. Combinatorial targeting of traditional and alternate ICs might be beneficial for immune-refractory tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmindra Dulal
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Andrew Boring
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - David Terrero
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Tiffany Johnson
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Amit K. Tiwari
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Dayanidhi Raman
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
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15
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Plebanek MP, Xue Y, Nguyen YV, DeVito NC, Wang X, Holtzhausen A, Beasley GM, Yarla N, Thievanthiran B, Hanks BA. A SREBF2-dependent gene program drives an immunotolerant dendritic cell population during cancer progression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.26.538456. [PMID: 37162965 PMCID: PMC10168385 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.26.538456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (cDCs) are essential mediators of anti-tumor immunity. Cancers have developed mechanisms to render DCs dysfunctional within the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing CD63 as a unique surface marker, we demonstrate that mature regulatory DCs (mregDCs) suppress DC antigen cross-presentation while driving T H 2 and regulatory T cell differentiation within tumor-draining lymph node tissues. Transcriptional and metabolic studies show that mregDC functionality is dependent upon the mevalonate biosynthetic pathway and the master transcription factor, SREBP2. Melanoma-derived lactate activates DC SREBP2 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and drives mregDC development from conventional DCs. DC-specific genetic silencing and pharmacologic inhibition of SREBP2 promotes anti-tumor CD8 + T cell activation and suppresses melanoma progression. CD63 + mregDCs reside within the sentinel lymph nodes of melanoma patients. Collectively, this work describes a tumor-driven SREBP2-dependent program that promotes CD63 + mregDC development and function while serving as a promising therapeutic target for overcoming immune tolerance in the TME. One Sentence Summary The metabolic transcription factor, SREBF2, regulates the development and tolerogenic function of the mregDC population within the tumor microenvironment.
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16
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Katanaev VL, Baldin A, Denisenko TV, Silachev DN, Ivanova AE, Sukhikh GT, Jia L, Ashrafyan LA. Cells of the tumor microenvironment speak the Wnt language. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:468-480. [PMID: 37045723 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays numerous functions in cancer, from primary transformation and tumor growth to metastasis. In addition to these cancer cell-intrinsic functions, Wnt signaling emerges to critically control cross-communication among cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we summarize the evidence that not only multiple cancer cell types, but also cells constituting the TME 'speak the Wnt language'. Fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelia, and lymphocytes all use the Wnt language to convey messages to and from cancer cells and among themselves; these messages are important for tumor progression and fate. Decoding this language will advance our understanding of tumor biology and unveil novel therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir L Katanaev
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690090 Vladivostok, Russia; College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
| | - Alexey Baldin
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Tatiana V Denisenko
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Denis N Silachev
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia; Department of Functional Biochemistry of Biopolymers, A.N. Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna E Ivanova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Gennadiy T Sukhikh
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Lee Jia
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Lev A Ashrafyan
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
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17
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The Roles of Secreted Wnt Ligands in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065349. [PMID: 36982422 PMCID: PMC10049518 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt ligands are secreted signaling proteins that display a wide range of biological effects. They play key roles in stimulating Wnt signaling pathways to facilitate processes such as tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Dysregulation of Wnt signaling is a hallmark of many cancers and genetic alterations in various Wnt signaling components, which result in ligand-independent or ligand-dependent hyperactivation of the pathway that have been identified. Recently, research is focusing on the impact of Wnt signaling on the interaction between tumor cells and their micro-environment. This Wnt-mediated crosstalk can act either in a tumor promoting or suppressing fashion. In this review, we comprehensively outline the function of Wnt ligands in different tumor entities and their impact on key phenotypes, including cancer stemness, drug resistance, metastasis, and immune evasion. Lastly, we elaborate approaches to target Wnt ligands in cancer therapy.
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18
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Abstract
Intercellular communication by Wnt proteins governs many essential processes during development, tissue homeostasis and disease in all metazoans. Many context-dependent effects are initiated in the Wnt-producing cells and depend on the export of lipidated Wnt proteins. Although much focus has been on understanding intracellular Wnt signal transduction, the cellular machinery responsible for Wnt secretion became better understood only recently. After lipid modification by the acyl-transferase Porcupine, Wnt proteins bind their dedicated cargo protein Evi/Wntless for transport and secretion. Evi/Wntless and Porcupine are conserved transmembrane proteins, and their 3D structures were recently determined. In this Review, we summarise studies and structural data highlighting how Wnts are transported from the ER to the plasma membrane, and the role of SNX3-retromer during the recycling of its cargo receptor Evi/Wntless. We also describe the regulation of Wnt export through a post-translational mechanism and review the importance of Wnt secretion for organ development and cancer, and as a future biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Wolf
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Signalling and Functional Genomics and Heidelberg University, BioQuant and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Boutros
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Division of Signalling and Functional Genomics and Heidelberg University, BioQuant and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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19
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Chakraborty B, Byemerwa J, Krebs T, Lim F, Chang CY, McDonnell DP. Estrogen Receptor Signaling in the Immune System. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:117-141. [PMID: 35709009 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The immune system functions in a sexually dimorphic manner, with females exhibiting more robust immune responses than males. However, how female sex hormones affect immune function in normal homeostasis and in autoimmunity is poorly understood. In this review, we discuss how estrogens affect innate and adaptive immune cell activity and how dysregulation of estrogen signaling underlies the pathobiology of some autoimmune diseases and cancers. The potential roles of the major circulating estrogens, and each of the 3 estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ, and G-protein coupled receptor) in the regulation of the activity of different immune cells are considered. This provides the framework for a discussion of the impact of ER modulators (aromatase inhibitors, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and selective estrogen receptor downregulators) on immunity. Synthesis of this information is timely given the considerable interest of late in defining the mechanistic basis of sex-biased responses/outcomes in patients with different cancers treated with immune checkpoint blockade. It will also be instructive with respect to the further development of ER modulators that modulate immunity in a therapeutically useful manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binita Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jovita Byemerwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Taylor Krebs
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Known Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Felicia Lim
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ching-Yi Chang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Donald P McDonnell
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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20
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Hargadon KM. Genetic dysregulation of immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways associated with tumor-intrinsic immune resistance: a molecular basis for combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy for cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:40. [PMID: 36629955 PMCID: PMC11072992 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04689-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Since the turn of the century, advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment of cancer. Although these approaches have far outperformed traditional therapies in various clinical settings, both remain plagued by mechanisms of innate and acquired resistance that limit therapeutic efficacy in many patients. With a focus on tumor-intrinsic resistance to immunotherapy, this review highlights our current understanding of the immunologic and oncogenic pathways whose genetic dysregulation in cancer cells enables immune escape. Emphasis is placed on genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic aberrations that influence the activity of these pathways in the context of immune resistance. Specifically, the role of pathways that govern interferon signaling, antigen processing and presentation, and immunologic cell death as determinants of tumor immune susceptibility are discussed. Likewise, mechanisms of tumor immune resistance mediated by dysregulated RAS-MAPK, WNT, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, and cell cycle pathways are described. Finally, this review highlights the ways in which recent insight into genetic dysregulation of these immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways is informing the design of combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy regimens that aim to restore immune susceptibility of cancer cells by overcoming resistance mechanisms that often limit the success of monotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian M Hargadon
- Hargadon Laboratory, Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, VA, 23943, USA.
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21
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Identification of DDX60 as a Regulator of MHC-I Class Molecules in Colorectal Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123092. [PMID: 36551849 PMCID: PMC9775109 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies induce durable responses in approximately 15% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who exhibit microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or deficient mismatch repair (dMMR). However, more than 80% of CRC patients do not respond to current immunotherapy. The main challenge with these patients is lack of MHC-I signaling to unmask their cancer cells so the immune cells can detect them. Here, we started by comparing IFNγ signature genes and MHC-I correlated gene lists to determine the potential candidates for MHC-I regulators. Then, the protein expression level of listed potential candidates in normal and cancer tissue was compared to select final candidates with enough disparity between the two types of tissues. ISG15 and DDX60 were further tested by wet-lab experiments. Overexpression of DDX60 upregulated the expression of MHC-I, while knockdown of DDX60 reduced the MHC-I expression in CRC cells. Moreover, DDX60 was downregulated in CRC tissues, and lower levels of DDX60 were associated with a poor prognosis. Our data showed that DDX60 could regulate MHC-I expression in CRC; thus, targeting DDX60 may improve the effects of immunotherapy in some patients.
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22
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Theivanthiran B, Yarla N, Haykal T, Nguyen YV, Cao L, Ferreira M, Holtzhausen A, Al-Rohil R, Salama AKS, Beasley GM, Plebanek MP, DeVito NC, Hanks BA. Tumor-intrinsic NLRP3-HSP70-TLR4 axis drives premetastatic niche development and hyperprogression during anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabq7019. [PMID: 36417489 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abq7019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The tumor-intrinsic NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) signaling axis is triggered by CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity and contributes to the development of adaptive resistance to anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immunotherapy by recruiting granulocytic polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) into the tumor microenvironment. Here, we demonstrate that the tumor NLRP3-HSP70 axis also drives the accumulation of PMN-MDSCs into distant lung tissues in a manner that depends on lung epithelial cell Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling, establishing a premetastatic niche that supports disease hyperprogression in response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Lung epithelial HSP70-TLR4 signaling induces the downstream Wnt5a-dependent release of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CXCL5), thus promoting myeloid granulopoiesis and recruitment of PMN-MDSCs into pulmonary tissues. Treatment with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy enhanced the activation of this pathway through immunologic pressure and drove disease progression in the setting of Nlrp3 amplification. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of NLRP3 and HSP70 blocked PMN-MDSC accumulation in the lung in response to anti-PD-1 therapy and suppressed metastatic progression in preclinical models of melanoma and breast cancer. Elevated baseline concentrations of plasma HSP70 and evidence of NLRP3 signaling activity in tumor tissue specimens correlated with the development of disease hyperprogression and inferior survival in patients with stage IV melanoma undergoing anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Together, this work describes a pathogenic mechanism underlying the phenomenon of disease hyperprogression in melanoma and offers candidate targets and markers capable of improving the management of patients with melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balamayooran Theivanthiran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Nagendra Yarla
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Tarek Haykal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Y-Van Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Linda Cao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michelle Ferreira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Alisha Holtzhausen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Caroline at Chapel Hill, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Rami Al-Rohil
- Department of Pathology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Durham, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - April K S Salama
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Georgia M Beasley
- Department of Surgery, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michael P Plebanek
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Nicholas C DeVito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Brent A Hanks
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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23
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Grout JA, Sirven P, Leader AM, Maskey S, Hector E, Puisieux I, Steffan F, Cheng E, Tung N, Maurin M, Vaineau R, Karpf L, Plaud M, Bègue AL, Ganesh K, Mesple J, Casanova-Acebes M, Tabachnikova A, Keerthivasan S, Lansky A, Bérichel JL, Walker L, Rahman AH, Gnjatic S, Girard N, Lefèvre M, Damotte D, Adam J, Martin JC, Wolf A, Flores RM, Beasley MB, Pradhan R, Müller S, Marron TU, Turley SJ, Merad M, Kenigsberg E, Salmon H. Spatial Positioning and Matrix Programs of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Promote T-cell Exclusion in Human Lung Tumors. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:2606-2625. [PMID: 36027053 PMCID: PMC9633420 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
It is currently accepted that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) participate in T-cell exclusion from tumor nests. To unbiasedly test this, we used single-cell RNA sequencing coupled with multiplex imaging on a large cohort of lung tumors. We identified four main CAF populations, two of which are associated with T-cell exclusion: (i) MYH11+αSMA+ CAF, which are present in early-stage tumors and form a single cell layer lining cancer aggregates, and (ii) FAP+αSMA+ CAF, which appear in more advanced tumors and organize in patches within the stroma or in multiple layers around tumor nests. Both populations orchestrate a particular structural tissue organization through dense and aligned fiber deposition compared with T cell-permissive CAF. Yet they produce distinct matrix molecules, including collagen IV (MYH11+αSMA+ CAF) and collagen XI/XII (FAP+αSMA+ CAF). Hereby, we uncovered unique molecular programs of CAF driving T-cell marginalization, whose targeting should increase immunotherapy efficacy in patients bearing T cell-excluded tumors. SIGNIFICANCE The cellular and molecular programs driving T-cell marginalization in solid tumors remain unclear. Here, we describe two CAF populations associated with T-cell exclusion in human lung tumors. We demonstrate the importance of pairing molecular and spatial analysis of the tumor microenvironment, a prerequisite to developing new strategies targeting T cell-excluding CAF. See related commentary by Sherman, p. 2501. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 2483.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A. Grout
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philémon Sirven
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Andrew M. Leader
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shrisha Maskey
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eglantine Hector
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Puisieux
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Fiona Steffan
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Evan Cheng
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Navpreet Tung
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mathieu Maurin
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Romain Vaineau
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Léa Karpf
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martin Plaud
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne-Laure Bègue
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Koushik Ganesh
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Jérémy Mesple
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Maria Casanova-Acebes
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexandra Tabachnikova
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shilpa Keerthivasan
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alona Lansky
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jessica Le Bérichel
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura Walker
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adeeb H. Rahman
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sacha Gnjatic
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicolas Girard
- Thorax Institute Curie Montsouris, Institut Curie, Paris, France; UVSQ, Paris Saclay University, Versailles, France
| | - Marine Lefèvre
- Department of Pathology, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, Paris, France
| | - Diane Damotte
- Department of Pathology, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris Cité University, France
| | - Julien Adam
- Department of Pathology, Paris Saint-Joseph Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jerome C. Martin
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Wolf
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Raja M. Flores
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Beth Beasley
- Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachana Pradhan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sören Müller
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas U. Marron
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shannon J. Turley
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Miriam Merad
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ephraim Kenigsberg
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Senior authors
| | - Hélène Salmon
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Institut Curie, INSERM, U932, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2018, Paris, France
- PSL Research University, Paris, France
- Senior authors
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24
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Haddad AF, Young JS, Gill S, Aghi MK. Resistance to immune checkpoint blockade: Mechanisms, counter-acting approaches, and future directions. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:532-541. [PMID: 35276342 PMCID: PMC9458771 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies seek to unleash the immune system against cancer cells. While a variety of immunotherapies exist, one of the most commonly used is immune checkpoint blockade, which refers to the use of antibodies to interfere with immunosuppressive signaling through immune checkpoint molecules. Therapies against various checkpoints have had success in the clinic across cancer types. However, the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors has varied across different cancer types and non-responsive patient populations have emerged. Non-responders to these therapies have highlighted the importance of understanding underlying mechanisms of resistance in order to predict which patients will respond and to tailor individual treatment paradigms. In this review we discuss the literature surrounding tumor mediated mechanisms of immune checkpoint resistance. We also describe efforts to overcome resistance and combine checkpoint inhibitors with additional immunotherapies. Finally, we provide insight into the future of immune checkpoint blockade, including the need for improved preclinical modeling and predictive biomarkers to facilitate personalized cancer treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Manish K. Aghi
- Corresponding author at: Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Ave, M-779, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA. (M.K. Aghi)
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25
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Morante M, Pandiella A, Crespo P, Herrero A. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and RAS-ERK Pathway-Targeted Drugs as Combined Therapy for the Treatment of Melanoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1562. [PMID: 36358912 PMCID: PMC9687808 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is a highly immunogenic tumor with very poor survival rates due to immune system escape-mechanisms. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) and the programmed death-1 (PD1) receptors, are being used to impede immune evasion. This immunotherapy entails an increment in the overall survival rates. However, melanoma cells respond with evasive molecular mechanisms. ERK cascade inhibitors are also used in metastatic melanoma treatment, with the RAF activity blockade being the main therapeutic approach for such purpose, and in combination with MEK inhibitors improves many parameters of clinical efficacy. Despite their efficacy in inhibiting ERK signaling, the rewiring of the melanoma cell-signaling results in disease relapse, constituting the reinstatement of ERK activation, which is a common cause of some resistance mechanisms. Recent studies revealed that the combination of RAS-ERK pathway inhibitors and ICI therapy present promising advantages for metastatic melanoma treatment. Here, we present a recompilation of the combined therapies clinically evaluated in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Morante
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Salamanca and IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Piero Crespo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Herrero
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
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26
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Flanagan DJ, Woodcock SA, Phillips C, Eagle C, Sansom OJ. Targeting ligand-dependent wnt pathway dysregulation in gastrointestinal cancers through porcupine inhibition. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 238:108179. [PMID: 35358569 PMCID: PMC9531712 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers are responsible for more cancer deaths than any other system of the body. This review summarises how Wnt pathway dysregulation contributes to the development of the most common gastrointestinal cancers, with a particular focus on the nature and frequency of upstream pathway aberrations. Tumors with upstream aberrations maintain a dependency on the presence of functional Wnt ligand, and are predicted to be tractable to inhibitors of Porcupine, an enzyme that plays a key role in Wnt secretion. We summarise available pre-clinical efficacy data from Porcupine inhibitors in vitro and in vivo, as well as potential toxicities and the data from early phase clinical trials. We appraise the rationale for biomarker-defined targeted approaches, as well as outlining future opportunities for combination with other therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J Flanagan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK; Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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27
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The Role of Indoleamine 2, 3-Dioxygenase 1 in Regulating Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112756. [PMID: 35681736 PMCID: PMC9179436 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is a rate-limiting enzyme that metabolizes an essential amino acid tryptophan (Trp) into kynurenine (Kyn), and it promotes the occurrence of immunosuppressive effects by regulating the consumption of Trp and the accumulation of Kyn in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have shown that the main cellular components of TME interact with each other through this pathway to promote the formation of tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. Here, we review the role of the immunosuppression mechanisms mediated by the IDO1 pathway in tumor growth. We discuss obstacles encountered in using IDO1 as a new tumor immunotherapy target, as well as the current clinical research progress.
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28
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Feng Y, Wang Y, Guo K, Feng J, Shao C, Pan M, Ding P, Liu H, Duan H, Lu D, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Han J, Li X, Yan X. The value of WNT5A as prognostic and immunological biomarker in pan-cancer. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:466. [PMID: 35571400 PMCID: PMC9096401 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-1317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Finding new immune-related biomarkers is one of the promising research directions for tumor immunotherapy. The WNT5A gene could stimulate the WNT pathway and regulate the progression of various tumors. Recent studies have partially revealed the relationship between WNT5A and tumor immunity, but the correlation and underlying mechanisms in pan-cancer remain obscure. Thus, we conducted this study aiming to characterize the prognostic value and immunological portrait of WNT5A in cancer. Methods The data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) databases was utilized to analyze WNT5A expression levels by Kruskal-Wallis test and correlation to prognosis by Cox regression test and Kaplan-Meier test, while the data was also used to study the association between WNT5A expression and immune microenvironment, immune neoantigens, immune checkpoints, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) in pan-cancer. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to clarify the relevant signaling pathways. The R package was used for data analysis and to create the plots. Results The pan-cancer analysis revealed that the expression level of WNT5A is generally elevated in most tumors (19/34, 55.88%), and high WNT5A expression was correlated with poor prognosis in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA, P<0.05), low-grade glioma (LGG, P<0.01), adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC, P<0.01), pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD, P<0.01), and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC, P<0.05). In addition, WNT5A expression was positively associated with immune infiltration, stromal score, and immune checkpoints in most cancers, and correlated to immune neoantigens, TMB, and MSI. Finally, GSEA indicated that WNT5A is implicated in the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), Notch, and Hedgehog signaling pathways, which may be related to tumor immunity. Conclusions The expression of WNT5A is elevated in most tumors and associated with tumor prognosis. Furthermore, WNT5A is associated with tumor immunity and may be an immunological biomarker in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingtong Feng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuanyong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Junjun Feng
- Department of Human Resource Management, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Changjian Shao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minghong Pan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Honggang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongtao Duan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Di Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yimeng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The 71st Group Army Hospital of PLA/The Affiliated Huaihai Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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29
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Correia C, Weiskittel TM, Ung CY, Villasboas Bisneto JC, Billadeau DD, Kaufmann SH, Li H. Uncovering Pharmacological Opportunities for Cancer Stem Cells-A Systems Biology View. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:752326. [PMID: 35359437 PMCID: PMC8962639 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.752326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a small fraction of the total cancer cell population, yet they are thought to drive disease propagation, therapy resistance and relapse. Like healthy stem cells, CSCs possess the ability to self-renew and differentiate. These stemness phenotypes of CSCs rely on multiple molecular cues, including signaling pathways (for example, WNT, Notch and Hedgehog), cell surface molecules that interact with cellular niche components, and microenvironmental interactions with immune cells. Despite the importance of understanding CSC biology, our knowledge of how neighboring immune and tumor cell populations collectively shape CSC stemness is incomplete. Here, we provide a systems biology perspective on the crucial roles of cellular population identification and dissection of cell regulatory states. By reviewing state-of-the-art single-cell technologies, we show how innovative systems-based analysis enables a deeper understanding of the stemness of the tumor niche and the influence of intratumoral cancer cell and immune cell compositions. We also summarize strategies for refining CSC systems biology, and the potential role of this approach in the development of improved anticancer treatments. Because CSCs are amenable to cellular transitions, we envision how systems pharmacology can become a major engine for discovery of novel targets and drug candidates that can modulate state transitions for tumor cell reprogramming. Our aim is to provide deeper insights into cancer stemness from a systems perspective. We believe this approach has great potential to guide the development of more effective personalized cancer therapies that can prevent CSC-mediated relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Correia
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Taylor M Weiskittel
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Choong Yong Ung
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Daniel D Billadeau
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States,Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Scott H Kaufmann
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States,Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States,*Correspondence: Hu Li,
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Singh P, Yadav M, Niveria K, Verma AK. Nano-immunotherapeutics: targeting approach as strategic regulation at tumor microenvironment for cancer treatment. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2022.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, which necessitates our consideration related to novel treatment approach. Tumor cells at the tumor microenvironment (TME), regulate a plethora of key mechanistic signaling pathways that obstruct antitumor immune responses by immune suppression, immune resistance or acquired immune tolerance. The present therapeutic regimes are provided independently or in combination, or as immunotherapies for cancer immune targeting. Immunotherapy has altered the arena of oncology and patient care. By using the host immune system, the immunostimulatory molecules can exert a robust, personalized response against the patient’s own tumors. Alternatively, tumors may exploit these strategies to escape immune recognition, and accordingly, such mechanisms represent chances for immunotherapy intervention. Nonetheless, despite promising outcomes from immunotherapies in recurrent and metastatic cancers, immune-therapeutics in clinics has been limited owing to unpredictability in the produced immune response and reported instances of immune-related adverse effects. The unrealized potential of immunotherapies in cancer management maybe due to the obstacles such as heterogeneous nature, multiple targets, patients’ immune response, specificity for cancer or variability in response generation in toxicity levels, delivery and cost related to therapeutics etc. Further revolutionary trends related to immunotherapies are noticeable with slower progress for cancer management. Recent advances in nanomedicine strategize to ameliorate the lacuna of immunotherapy as it relies on the inherent biophysical characteristics of nanocarriers: size, shape, surface charge and multifunctionality and exploiting them as first line therapy for delivery of biomolecules, single checkpoint inhibitors and for imaging of TME. Therefore, nano-assisted immunotherapies can boost the immunotherapeutic approach, overcoming factors that are with imminent potential risks related to it, thereby significantly improving the survival rate associated with it in cancer patients. Nanotechnology is anticipated to overcome the confines of existing cancer immunotherapy and to successfully combine various cancer treatment modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Singh
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Monika Yadav
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Karishma Niveria
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Anita Kamra Verma
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
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31
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Wnt signaling pathway in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2022; 525:84-96. [PMID: 34740608 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a highly conserved pathway that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, tissue homeostasis, and wound healing. Dysregulation of the Wnt pathway is intricately involved in almost all stages of tumorigenesis in various cancers. Through direct and/or indirect effects on effector T cells, T-regulatory cells, T-helper cells, dendritic cells, and other cytokine-expressing immune cells, abnormal activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling benefits immune exclusion and hinders T-cell-mediated antitumor immune responses. Activation of Wnt signaling results in increased resistance to immunotherapies. In this review, we summarize the process by which Wnt signaling affects cancer and immune surveillance, and the potential for targeting the Wnt-signaling pathway via cancer immunotherapy.
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Karachaliou GS, Alkallas R, Carroll SB, Caressi C, Zakria D, Patel NM, Trembath DG, Ezzell JA, Pegna GJ, Googe PB, Galeotti JP, Ayvali F, Collichio FA, Lee CB, Ollila DW, Gulley ML, Johnson DB, Kim KB, Watson IR, Moschos SJ. The clinical significance of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and catenin Beta 1 (CTNNB1) genetic aberrations in patients with melanoma. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:38. [PMID: 34986841 PMCID: PMC8734243 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08908-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma-intrinsic activated β-catenin pathway, the product of the catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) gene, has been associated with low/absent tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, accelerated tumor growth, metastases development, and resistance to anti-PD-L1/anti-CTLA-4 agents in mouse melanoma models. Little is known about the association between the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and CTNNB1 gene mutations in stage IV melanoma with immunotherapy response and overall survival (OS). METHODS We examined the prognostic significance of somatic APC/CTNNB1 mutations in the Cancer Genome Atlas Project for Skin Cutaneous Melanoma (TCGA-SKCM) database. We assessed APC/CTNNB1 mutations as predictors of response to immunotherapies in a clinicopathologically annotated metastatic patient cohort from three US melanoma centers. RESULTS In the TCGA-SKCM patient cohort (n = 434) presence of a somatic APC/CTNNB1 mutation was associated with a worse outcome only in stage IV melanoma (n = 82, median OS of APC/CTNNB1 mutants vs. wild-type was 8.15 vs. 22.8 months; log-rank hazard ratio 4.20, p = 0.011). APC/CTNNB1 mutation did not significantly affect lymphocyte distribution and density. In the 3-melanoma institution cohort, tumor tissues underwent targeted panel sequencing using two standards of care assays. We identified 55 patients with stage IV melanoma and APC/CTNNB1 genetic aberrations (mut) and 169 patients without (wt). At a median follow-up of more than 25 months for both groups, mut compared with wt patients had slightly more frequent (44% vs. 39%) and earlier (66% vs. 45% within six months from original diagnosis of stage IV melanoma) development of brain metastases. Nevertheless, time-to-development of brain metastases was not significantly different between the two groups. Fortunately, mut patients had similar clinical benefits from PD-1 inhibitor-based treatments compared to wt patients (median OS 26.1 months vs. 29.9 months, respectively, log-rank p = 0.23). Less frequent mutations in the NF1, RAC1, and PTEN genes were seen in the mut compared with wt patients from the 3-melanoma institution cohort. Analysis of brain melanoma tumor tissues from a separate craniotomy patient cohort (n = 55) showed that melanoma-specific, activated β-catenin (i.e., nuclear localization) was infrequent (n = 3, 6%) and not prognostic in established brain metastases. CONCLUSIONS APC/CTNNB1 mutations are associated with a worse outcome in stage IV melanoma and early brain metastases independent of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte density. However, PD1 inhibitor-based treatments provide comparable benefits to both mut and wt patients with stage IV melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Sofia Karachaliou
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Rached Alkallas
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah B Carroll
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chongshan Caressi
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Danny Zakria
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nirali M Patel
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dimitri G Trembath
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer A Ezzell
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Histology Research Core Facility, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Guillaume J Pegna
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Paul B Googe
- Department of Dermatology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan P Galeotti
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Fatih Ayvali
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Frances A Collichio
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carrie B Lee
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - David W Ollila
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Margaret L Gulley
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Douglas B Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kevin B Kim
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ian R Watson
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stergios J Moschos
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Li F, Zhao Z, Zhang Z, Zhang Y, Guan W. Tryptophan metabolism induced by TDO2 promotes prostatic cancer chemotherapy resistance in a AhR/c-Myc dependent manner. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:1112. [PMID: 34657603 PMCID: PMC8520630 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08855-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor cells exhibit enhanced metabolism of nutrients to satisfy the demand of sustained proliferation in vivo. Seminal reports have presented evidence that tryptophan (Trp) metabolic reprogramming induced by aberrant indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenases could promote tumor development in several cancer types. However, the underlying mechanism of Trp metabolism associated tumor progression is not fully understood. MATERIALS AND METHODS Prostatic cell lines LNCaP and VCaP were purchased from the Cell Bank of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (China). Human prostatic tumor tissue samples were obtained from the Tongji Hospital. Female NOD-SCID mice (6 ~ 8 weeks) were purchased from Huafukang Co. (China) and raised in SPF room. Commercial kits and instruments were used for cell apoptosis analysis, real-time PCR, western blotting, ELISA analysis and other experiments. RESULT Comparing the tumor tissues from prostatic cancer patients, we found elevated expression of tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase 2 (TDO2), and elevated Trp metabolism in chemo-resistant tumor tissues. In vitro, overexpression of TDO2 significantly promoted the Trp metabolism in prostatic cancer cell lines LNCaP and VCap, resulting in the multidrug resistance development. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that Trp metabolite kynurenine (Kyn) promoted the upregulation and nuclear translocation of transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Subsequently, AhR collaborated with NF-κB to facilitate the activation of c-Myc. In turn, c-Myc promoted the up-regulation of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and Trp transporters, thereby contributing to chemoresistance and strengthened Trp metabolism in prostatic cancer. Interrupt of Trp/TDO2/Kyn/AhR/c-Myc loop with c-Myc inhibitor Mycro-3 efficiently suppressed the chemoresistance and improved the outcome of chemotherapy, which described a new strategy in clinical prostatic cancer treatment. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that elevated TOD2 expression promoted Trp metabolism and metabolite Kyn production, thus resulting in the activation of AhR/c-Myc/ABC-SLC transporters signaling pathway. Interrupt of Trp metabolism/c-Myc loop efficiently suppressed the drugs resistance induced by TDO2, which represented potential target to improve the outcome in drug-resistant prostatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhao
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zongbiao Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Guan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Yang C, Ng CT, Li D, Zhang L. Targeting Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1: Fighting Cancers via Dormancy Regulation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:725204. [PMID: 34539663 PMCID: PMC8446437 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.725204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The connection between indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and tumour dormancy – a quiescent state of tumour cells which has been consistently linked to metastasis and cancer recurrence – is rarely discussed despite the pivotal role of IDO1 in cancer development and progression. Whilst the underlying mechanisms of IDO1-mediated dormancy are elusive, we summarize the IDO1 pathways which potentially contribute to dormancy in this review. Critically, distinct IDO1 activities are involved in dormancy initiation and maintenance; factors outside the well-studied IDO1/kynurenine/aryl hydrocarbon receptor axis, including the mammalian target of rapamycin and general control nonderepressible 2, appear to be implicated in dormancy. We also discuss various strategies for cancer treatment via regulating IDO1-dependent dormancy and suggest the application of nanotechnology to deliver effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yang
- National Engineering Research Center For Marine Aquaculture, Institute of Innovation & Application, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Chan-Tat Ng
- Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of English, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Sericultural Research Institute, College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Huang F, Santinon F, Flores González RE, del Rincón SV. Melanoma Plasticity: Promoter of Metastasis and Resistance to Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:756001. [PMID: 34604096 PMCID: PMC8481945 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.756001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Although targeted therapies and immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment of metastatic melanoma, most patients are not cured. Therapy resistance remains a significant clinical challenge. Melanoma comprises phenotypically distinct subpopulations of cells, exhibiting distinct gene signatures leading to tumor heterogeneity and favoring therapeutic resistance. Cellular plasticity in melanoma is referred to as phenotype switching. Regardless of their genomic classification, melanomas switch from a proliferative and differentiated phenotype to an invasive, dedifferentiated and often therapy-resistant state. In this review we discuss potential mechanisms underpinning melanoma phenotype switching, how this cellular plasticity contributes to resistance to both targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, we highlight novel strategies to target plasticity and their potential clinical impact in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Huang
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - François Santinon
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Raúl Ernesto Flores González
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sonia V. del Rincón
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Qian W, Zhao M, Wang R, Li H. Fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1): the next immune checkpoint target. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:147. [PMID: 34526102 PMCID: PMC8444356 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01161-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapy has achieved significant efficacy by blocking inhibitory pathways to release the function of T lymphocytes. In the clinic, anti-programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have progressed to first-line monotherapies in certain tumor types. However, the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 mAbs is still limited due to toxic side effects and de novo or adaptive resistance. Moreover, other immune checkpoint target and biomarkers for therapeutic response prediction are still lacking; as a biomarker, the PD-L1 (CD274, B7-H1) expression level is not as accurate as required. Hence, it is necessary to seek more representative predictive molecules and potential target molecules for immune checkpoint therapy. Fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1) is a proliferation- and metabolism-related protein secreted by the liver. Multiple studies have confirmed that FGL1 is a newly emerging checkpoint ligand of lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3), emphasizing the potential of targeting FGL1/LAG3 as the next generation of immune checkpoint therapy. In this review, we summarize the substantial regulation mechanisms of FGL1 in physiological and pathological conditions, especially tumor epithelial to mesenchymal transition, immune escape and immune checkpoint blockade resistance, to provide insights for targeting FGL1 in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Qian
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6 Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, 110006, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Biomarker High Throughput Screening and Target Translation of Breast and Gastrointestinal Tumor, Dalian, 116001, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingfang Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, No.155 Nanjingbei Road, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruoyu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6 Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, 110006, People's Republic of China. .,The Key Laboratory of Biomarker High Throughput Screening and Target Translation of Breast and Gastrointestinal Tumor, Dalian, 116001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Heming Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, No.155 Nanjingbei Road, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, People's Republic of China.
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Bashash D, Zandi Z, Kashani B, Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi A, Salari S, Ghaffari SH. Resistance to immunotherapy in human malignancies: Mechanisms, research progresses, challenges, and opportunities. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:346-372. [PMID: 34498289 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Despite remarkable advances in different types of cancer therapies, an effective therapeutic strategy is still a major and significant challenge. One of the most promising approaches in this regard is immunotherapy, which takes advantage of the patients' immune system; however, the many mechanisms that cancerous cells harbor to extend their survival make it impossible to gain perfect eradication of tumors. The response rate to cancer immunotherapies, especially checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive T cell therapy, substantially differs in various cancer types with the highest rates in advanced melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. Indeed, the lack of response in many tumors indicates primary resistance that can originate from either tumor cells (intrinsic) or tumor microenvironment (extrinsic). On the other hand, some tumors show an initial response to immunotherapy followed by relapse in few months (acquired resistance). Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of immunotherapy resistance makes it possible to develop effective strategies to overcome this hurdle and boost therapy outcomes. In this review, we take a look at immunotherapy strategies and go through a number of primary and acquired resistance mechanisms. Also, we present various ongoing methods to overcoming resistance and introduce some promising fields to improve the outcome of immunotherapy in patients affected with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandi
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Shariati Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Kashani
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Shariati Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Salari
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Taleghani Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed H Ghaffari
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Shariati Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mathilakathu A, Borchert S, Wessolly M, Mairinger E, Beckert H, Steinborn J, Hager T, Christoph DC, Kollmeier J, Wohlschlaeger J, Mairinger T, Schmid KW, Walter RFH, Brcic L, Mairinger FD. Mitogen signal-associated pathways, energy metabolism regulation, and mediation of tumor immunogenicity play essential roles in the cellular response of malignant pleural mesotheliomas to platinum-based treatment: a retrospective study. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2021; 10:3030-3042. [PMID: 34430345 PMCID: PMC8350085 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-21-201] [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: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare malignant tumor associated with asbestos exposure, with infaust prognosis and overall survival below 20 months in treated patients. Platinum is still the backbone of the chemotherapy protocols, and the reasons for the rather poor efficacy of platinum compounds in MPM remain largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to analyze differences in key signaling pathways and biological mechanisms in therapy-naïve samples and samples after chemotherapy in order to evaluate the effect of platinum-based chemotherapy. Methods The study cohort comprised 24 MPM tumor specimens, 12 from therapy-naïve and 12 from patients after platinum-based therapy. Tumor samples were screened using the NanoString nCounter platform for digital gene expression analysis with an appurtenant custom-designed panel comprising a total of 366 mRNAs covering the most important tumor signaling pathways. Significant pathway associations were identified by gene set enrichment analysis using the WEB-based GEne SeT AnaLysis Toolkit (WebGestalt) Results We have found reduced activity of TNF (normalized enrichment score: 2.03), IL-17 (normalized enrichment score: 1.93), MAPK (normalized enrichment score: 1.51), and relaxin signaling pathways (normalized enrichment score: 1.42) in the samples obtained after platinum-based therapy. In contrast, AMPK (normalized enrichment score: –1.58), mTOR (normalized enrichment score: –1.50), Wnt (normalized enrichment score: –1.38), and longevity regulating pathway (normalized enrichment score: –1.31) showed significantly elevated expression in the same samples. Conclusions We could identify deregulated signaling pathways due to a directed cellular response to platinum-induced cell stress. Our results are paving the ground for a better understanding of cellular responses and escape mechanisms, carrying a high potential for improved clinical management of patients with MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Mathilakathu
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Borchert
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Wessolly
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Elena Mairinger
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hendrik Beckert
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, University Hospital Essen-Ruhrlandklinik, Essen, Germany
| | - Julia Steinborn
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas Hager
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Daniel C Christoph
- Department of Medical Oncology, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Jens Kollmeier
- Department of Pneumology, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeremias Wohlschlaeger
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas Mairinger
- Department of Tissue Diagnostics, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kurt Werner Schmid
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Robert F H Walter
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Luka Brcic
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Fabian D Mairinger
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
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Hiremath IS, Goel A, Warrier S, Kumar AP, Sethi G, Garg M. The multidimensional role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in human malignancies. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:199-238. [PMID: 34431086 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several signaling pathways have been identified as important for developmental processes. One of such important cascades is the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which can regulate various physiological processes such as embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and tissue regeneration; while its dysregulation is implicated in several pathological conditions especially cancers. Interestingly, deregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been reported to be closely associated with initiation, progression, metastasis, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and drug resistance in human malignancies. Moreover, several genetic and experimental models support the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to answer the key issues related to cancer development. The present review focuses on different regulators of Wnt pathway and how distinct mutations, deletion, and amplification in these regulators could possibly play an essential role in the development of several cancers such as colorectal, melanoma, breast, lung, and leukemia. Additionally, we also provide insights on diverse classes of inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which are currently in preclinical and clinical trial against different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita S Hiremath
- Department of Bioengineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Arul Goel
- La Canada High School, La Canada Flintridge, California, USA
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India.,Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Manesar, Haryana, India
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Manoharan I, Prasad PD, Thangaraju M, Manicassamy S. Lactate-Dependent Regulation of Immune Responses by Dendritic Cells and Macrophages. Front Immunol 2021; 12:691134. [PMID: 34394085 PMCID: PMC8358770 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.691134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, lactate has been considered an innocuous bystander metabolite of cellular metabolism. However, emerging studies show that lactate acts as a complex immunomodulatory molecule that controls innate and adaptive immune cells’ effector functions. Thus, recent advances point to lactate as an essential and novel signaling molecule that shapes innate and adaptive immune responses in the intestine and systemic sites. Here, we review these recent advances in the context of the pleiotropic effects of lactate in regulating diverse functions of immune cells in the tissue microenvironment and under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indumathi Manoharan
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Puttur D Prasad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Muthusamy Thangaraju
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Santhakumar Manicassamy
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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Rodon J, Argilés G, Connolly RM, Vaishampayan U, de Jonge M, Garralda E, Giannakis M, Smith DC, Dobson JR, McLaughlin ME, Seroutou A, Ji Y, Morawiak J, Moody SE, Janku F. Phase 1 study of single-agent WNT974, a first-in-class Porcupine inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid tumours. Br J Cancer 2021; 125:28-37. [PMID: 33941878 PMCID: PMC8257624 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01389-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This Phase 1 study assessed the safety and efficacy of the Porcupine inhibitor, WNT974, in patients with advanced solid tumours. METHODS Patients (n = 94) received oral WNT974 at doses of 5-30 mg once-daily, plus additional dosing schedules. RESULTS The maximum tolerated dose was not established; the recommended dose for expansion was 10 mg once-daily. Dysgeusia was the most common adverse event (50% of patients), likely resulting from on-target Wnt pathway inhibition. No responses were seen by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) v1.1; 16% of patients had stable disease (median duration 19.9 weeks). AXIN2 expression by RT-PCR was reduced in 94% of paired skin biopsies (n = 52) and 74% of paired tumour biopsies (n = 35), confirming inhibition of the Wnt pathway. In an exploratory analysis, an inverse association was observed between AXIN2 change and immune signature change in paired tumour samples (n = 8). CONCLUSIONS Single-agent WNT974 treatment was generally well tolerated. Biomarker analyses suggest that WNT974 may influence immune cell recruitment to tumours, and may enhance checkpoint inhibitor activity. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01351103.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Rodon
- grid.411083.f0000 0001 0675 8654Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain ,grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Present Address: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Guillem Argilés
- grid.411083.f0000 0001 0675 8654Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roisin M. Connolly
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA ,grid.7872.a0000000123318773Present Address: CancerResearch@UCC, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ulka Vaishampayan
- grid.477517.70000 0004 0396 4462Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI USA
| | - Maja de Jonge
- grid.5645.2000000040459992XDepartment of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Garralda
- grid.488453.60000000417724902START Madrid, Hospital Universitario Madrid Sanchinarro, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marios Giannakis
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - David C. Smith
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Jason R. Dobson
- grid.418424.f0000 0004 0439 2056Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Margaret E. McLaughlin
- grid.418424.f0000 0004 0439 2056Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA USA
| | | | - Yan Ji
- grid.418424.f0000 0004 0439 2056Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, East Hanover, NJ USA
| | - Jennifer Morawiak
- grid.418424.f0000 0004 0439 2056Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Susan E. Moody
- grid.418424.f0000 0004 0439 2056Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Filip Janku
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase 1 Clinical Trials Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
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42
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Pan B, Zhang H, Hong Y, Ma M, Wan X, Cao C. Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase Activates Wnt/β-Catenin Inducing Kidney Fibrosis after Acute Kidney Injury. Gerontology 2021; 67:611-619. [PMID: 34130288 DOI: 10.1159/000515041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As disorder of tryptophan metabolism is common in CKD, the rate-limiting enzyme of tryptophan, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), has been reported to be involved in CKD, while the accurate mechanism remains unknown. This study was designed to explore correlations between IDO and kidney fibrosis after ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). METHODS Wild-type (WT) mice and IDO knockout (IDO-/-) mice were divided into the sham group and acute kidney injury (AKI) group. Mice in the sham group underwent dorsal incision and exposure of renal pedicle without clamping renal artery, while mice in the AKI group received unique renal artery IRI, and the contralateral kidney was removed at day 13 after IRI. Blood and IRI kidneys were collected at day 14. Kidney function was analyzed by measuring serum Cr and BUN. Morphology was analyzed by tissue periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining and Masson staining. Further, fibrosis markers and Wnt/β-catenin pathway proteins were determined by Western blot. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was administrated for 2 weeks after the IRI mice model was established to observe whether it ameliorates kidney fibrosis after IRI. RESULTS WT AKI mice revealed elevated expression of IDO compared with WT sham mice. Kidney function of IDO-/- AKI mice showed better than that of WT AKI mice. PAS staining exhibited less loss of tubular epithelial cells and atrophy tubules in IDO-/- AKI mice. Furthermore, kidney fibrosis areas and the expressions of fibrosis markers, including α-SMA, fibronectin, and vimentin, were increased in WT AKI mice. In addition, GSK-3β and β-catenin were significantly declined in IDO-/- AKI mice. On top of that, PGE2 administration revealed inhibited IDO expression and that reducing GSK-3β and β-catenin resulting in lower expressions of α-SMA, fibronectin, and vimentin in WT AKI mice. CONCLUSIONS IRI could increase IDO expression to activate Wnt/β-catenin pathway resulting kidney fibrosis. PGE2 could ameliorate kidney fibrosis via inhibiting IDO expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Pan
- Department of Nephrology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yali Hong
- Department of Nephrology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengqing Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Wan
- Department of Nephrology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Changchun Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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43
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Lin J, Wang H, Liu C, Cheng A, Deng Q, Zhu H, Chen J. Dendritic Cells: Versatile Players in Renal Transplantation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:654540. [PMID: 34093544 PMCID: PMC8170486 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.654540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) induce and regulate adaptive immunity through migrating and maturing in the kidney. In this procedure, they can adopt different phenotypes—rejection-associated DCs promote acute or chronic injury renal grafts while tolerogenic DCs suppress the overwhelmed inflammation preventing damage to renal functionality. All the subsets interact with effector T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) stimulated by the ischemia–reperfusion procedure, although the classification corresponding to different effects remains controversial. Thus, in this review, we discuss the origin, maturation, and pathological effects of DCs in the kidney. Then we summarize the roles of divergent DCs in renal transplantation: taking both positive and negative stages in ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI), switching phenotypes to induce acute or chronic rejection, and orchestrating surface markers for allograft tolerance via alterations in metabolism. In conclusion, we prospect that multidimensional transcriptomic analysis will revolute researches on renal transplantation by addressing the elusive mononuclear phagocyte classification and providing a holistic view of DC ontogeny and subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwen Lin
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Prevention and Control Technology, National Key Clinical Department of Kidney Disease, Institute of Nephrology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,The Third Grade Laboratory under the National State, Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongyi Wang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chenxi Liu
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ao Cheng
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qingwei Deng
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huijuan Zhu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianghua Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Prevention and Control Technology, National Key Clinical Department of Kidney Disease, Institute of Nephrology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,The Third Grade Laboratory under the National State, Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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DeVito NC, Sturdivant M, Thievanthiran B, Xiao C, Plebanek MP, Salama AKS, Beasley GM, Holtzhausen A, Novotny-Diermayr V, Strickler JH, Hanks BA. Pharmacological Wnt ligand inhibition overcomes key tumor-mediated resistance pathways to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109071. [PMID: 33951424 PMCID: PMC8148423 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
While immune checkpoint blockade is associated with prolonged responses in multiple cancers, most patients still do not benefit from this therapeutic strategy. The Wnt-β-catenin pathway is associated with diminished T cell infiltration; however, activating mutations are rare, implicating a role for autocrine/paracrine Wnt ligand-driven signaling in immune evasion. In this study, we show that proximal mediators of the Wnt signaling pathway are associated with anti-PD-1 resistance, and pharmacologic inhibition of Wnt ligand signaling supports anti-PD-1 efficacy by reversing dendritic cell tolerization and the recruitment of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells in autochthonous tumor models. We further demonstrate that the inhibition of Wnt signaling promotes the development of a tumor microenvironment that is more conducive to favorable responses to checkpoint blockade in cancer patients. These findings support a rationale for Wnt ligand-focused treatment approaches in future immunotherapy clinical trials and suggest a strategy for selecting those tumors more responsive to Wnt inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C DeVito
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michael Sturdivant
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Balamayooran Thievanthiran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Christine Xiao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michael P Plebanek
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - April K S Salama
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Georgia M Beasley
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Alisha Holtzhausen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Veronica Novotny-Diermayr
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), A(∗)STAR, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01 Chromos, Singapore 138670, Singapore
| | - John H Strickler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Brent A Hanks
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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45
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Kumar V, Vashishta M, Kong L, Wu X, Lu JJ, Guha C, Dwarakanath BS. The Role of Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt Signaling Pathways in the Resistance of Tumors to Anticancer Therapies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:650772. [PMID: 33968932 PMCID: PMC8100510 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.650772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to therapy is the major hurdle in the current cancer management. Cancer cells often rewire their cellular process to alternate mechanisms to resist the deleterious effect mounted by different therapeutic approaches. The major signaling pathways involved in the developmental process, such as Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt, play a vital role in development, tumorigenesis, and also in the resistance to the various anticancer therapies. Understanding how cancer utilizes these developmental pathways in acquiring the resistance to the multi-therapeutic approach cancer can give rise to a new insight of the anti-therapy resistance mechanisms, which can be explored for the development of a novel therapeutic approach. We present a brief overview of Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt signaling pathways in cancer and its role in providing resistance to various cancer treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Understanding the importance of these molecular networks will provide a rational basis for novel and safer combined anticancer therapeutic approaches for the improvement of cancer treatment by overcoming drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Mohit Vashishta
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Kong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Wu
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiade J Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chandan Guha
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, The Bronx, NY, United States
| | - B S Dwarakanath
- R&D Dept, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (SPHIC), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology (20dz2261000), Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China
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46
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Bencze D, Fekete T, Pázmándi K. Type I Interferon Production of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells under Control. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084190. [PMID: 33919546 PMCID: PMC8072550 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most powerful and multifaceted cytokines produced by immune cells are type I interferons (IFNs), the basal secretion of which contributes to the maintenance of immune homeostasis, while their activation-induced production is essential to effective immune responses. Although, each cell is capable of producing type I IFNs, plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) possess a unique ability to rapidly produce large amounts of them. Importantly, type I IFNs have a prominent role in the pathomechanism of various pDC-associated diseases. Deficiency in type I IFN production increases the risk of more severe viral infections and the development of certain allergic reactions, and supports tumor resistance; nevertheless, its overproduction promotes autoimmune reactions. Therefore, the tight regulation of type I IFN responses of pDCs is essential to maintain an adequate level of immune response without causing adverse effects. Here, our goal was to summarize those endogenous factors that can influence the type I IFN responses of pDCs, and thus might serve as possible therapeutic targets in pDC-associated diseases. Furthermore, we briefly discuss the current therapeutic approaches targeting the pDC-type I IFN axis in viral infections, cancer, autoimmunity, and allergy, together with their limitations defined by the Janus-faced nature of pDC-derived type I IFNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dóra Bencze
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.B.); (T.F.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tünde Fekete
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.B.); (T.F.)
| | - Kitti Pázmándi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.B.); (T.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +36-52-417-159
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47
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Liu Z, Wang P, Wold EA, Song Q, Zhao C, Wang C, Zhou J. Small-Molecule Inhibitors Targeting the Canonical WNT Signaling Pathway for the Treatment of Cancer. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4257-4288. [PMID: 33822624 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Canonical WNT signaling is an important developmental pathway that has attracted increased attention for anticancer drug discovery. From the production and secretion of WNT ligands, their binding to membrane receptors, and the β-catenin destruction complex to the expansive β-catenin transcriptional complex, multiple components have been investigated as drug targets to modulate WNT signaling. Significant progress in developing WNT inhibitors such as porcupine inhibitors, tankyrase inhibitors, β-catenin/coactivators, protein-protein interaction inhibitors, casein kinase modulators, DVL inhibitors, and dCTPP1 inhibitors has been made, with several candidates (e.g., LGK-974, PRI-724, and ETC-159) in human clinical trials. Herein we summarize recent progress in the drug discovery and development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting the canonical WNT pathway, focusing on their specific target proteins, in vitro and in vivo activities, physicochemical properties, and therapeutic potential. The relevant opportunities and challenges toward maintaining the balance between efficacy and toxicity in effectively targeting this pathway are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Liu
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Pingyuan Wang
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas 77555, United States
| | - Eric A Wold
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas 77555, United States
| | - Qiaoling Song
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Chenyang Zhao
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Changyun Wang
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas 77555, United States
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48
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Li Z, Liu Y, Fang X, Shu Z. Nanomaterials Enhance the Immunomodulatory Effect of Molecular Targeted Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:1631-1661. [PMID: 33688183 PMCID: PMC7935456 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s290346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular targeted therapy, a tumor therapy strategy that inhibits specific oncogenic targets, has been shown to modulate the immune response. In addition to directly inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells, molecular targeted drugs can activate the immune system through a variety of mechanisms, including by promoting tumor antigen processing and presentation, increasing intratumoral T cell infiltration, enhancing T cell activation and function, and attenuating the immunosuppressive effect of the tumor microenvironment. However, poor water solubility, insufficient accumulation at the tumor site, and nonspecific targeting of immune cells limit their application. To this end, a variety of nanomaterials have been developed to overcome these obstacles and amplify the immunomodulatory effects of molecular targeted drugs. In this review, we summarize the impact of molecular targeted drugs on the antitumor immune response according to their mechanisms, highlight the advantages of nanomaterials in enhancing the immunomodulatory effect of molecular targeted therapy, and discuss the current challenges and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongmin Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Yilun Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenbo Shu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
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Advantages of targeting the tumor immune microenvironment over blocking immune checkpoint in cancer immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:72. [PMID: 33608497 PMCID: PMC7896069 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00449-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great success in cancer immunotherapy, immune checkpoint-targeting drugs are not the most popular weapon in the armory of cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that the tumor immune microenvironment plays a critical role in anti-cancer immunity, which may result in immune checkpoint blockade therapy being ineffective, in addition to other novel immunotherapies in cancer patients. In the present review, we discuss the deficiencies of current cancer immunotherapies. More importantly, we highlight the critical role of tumor immune microenvironment regulators in tumor immune surveillance, immunological evasion, and the potential for their further translation into clinical practice. Based on their general targetability in clinical therapy, we believe that tumor immune microenvironment regulators are promising cancer immunotherapeutic targets. Targeting the tumor immune microenvironment, alone or in combination with immune checkpoint-targeting drugs, might benefit cancer patients in the future.
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Razavi A, Keshavarz-Fathi M, Pawelek J, Rezaei N. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for melanoma. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:209-223. [PMID: 33481629 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1880895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has emerged as a cancer treatment. After initial therapeutic success for hematologic malignancies, this approach has been extended for the treatment of solid tumors including melanoma. AREAS COVERED T cells need to be reprogramed to recognize specific antigens expressed only in tumor cells, a difficult problem since cancer cells are simply transformed normal cells. Tumor antigens, namely, CSPG4, CD70, and GD2 have been targeted by CAR-T cells for melanoma. Moreover, different co-stimulatory signaling domains need to be selected to direct T cell fate. In this review, various approaches for the treatment of melanoma and their effectiveness are comprehensively reviewed and the current status, challenges, and future perspective of CAR-T cell therapy for melanoma are discussed. Literature search was accomplished in three databases (PubMed, Google scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov). Published papers and clinical trials were screened and relevant documents were included by checking pre-defined eligibility criteria. EXPERT OPINION Despite obstacles and the risk of adverse events, CAR T cell therapy could be used for patients with treatment-resistant cancer. Clinical trials are underway to determine the efficacy of this approach for the treatment of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadehsadat Razavi
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biology Sciences, University of Kharazmi, Tehran, Iran.,Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Keshavarz-Fathi
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - John Pawelek
- Department of Dermatology and the Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Stockholm, Sweden
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