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Rojas-Quintero J, Díaz MP, Palmar J, Galan-Freyle NJ, Morillo V, Escalona D, González-Torres HJ, Torres W, Navarro-Quiroz E, Rivera-Porras D, Bermúdez V. Car T Cells in Solid Tumors: Overcoming Obstacles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4170. [PMID: 38673757 PMCID: PMC11050550 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084170] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T cell) therapy has emerged as a prominent adoptive cell therapy and a therapeutic approach of great interest in the fight against cancer. This approach has shown notorious efficacy in refractory hematological neoplasm, which has bolstered its exploration in the field of solid cancers. However, successfully managing solid tumors presents considerable intrinsic challenges, which include the necessity of guiding the modified cells toward the tumoral region, assuring their penetration and survival in adverse microenvironments, and addressing the complexity of identifying the specific antigens for each type of cancer. This review focuses on outlining the challenges faced by CAR T cell therapy when used in the treatment of solid tumors, as well as presenting optimizations and emergent approaches directed at improving its efficacy in this particular context. From precise localization to the modulation of the tumoral microenvironment and the adaptation of antigen recognition strategies, diverse pathways will be examined to overcome the current limitations and buttress the therapeutic potential of CAR T cells in the fight against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joselyn Rojas-Quintero
- Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - María P. Díaz
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrino—Metabólicas, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo 4001, Venezuela (J.P.); (V.M.); (D.E.); (W.T.)
| | - Jim Palmar
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrino—Metabólicas, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo 4001, Venezuela (J.P.); (V.M.); (D.E.); (W.T.)
| | - Nataly J. Galan-Freyle
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia; (N.J.G.-F.); (E.N.-Q.)
| | - Valery Morillo
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrino—Metabólicas, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo 4001, Venezuela (J.P.); (V.M.); (D.E.); (W.T.)
| | - Daniel Escalona
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrino—Metabólicas, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo 4001, Venezuela (J.P.); (V.M.); (D.E.); (W.T.)
| | | | - Wheeler Torres
- Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Investigaciones Endocrino—Metabólicas, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo 4001, Venezuela (J.P.); (V.M.); (D.E.); (W.T.)
| | - Elkin Navarro-Quiroz
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia; (N.J.G.-F.); (E.N.-Q.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Básicas y Biomédicas, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
| | - Diego Rivera-Porras
- Facultad de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Cúcuta 540001, Colombia;
| | - Valmore Bermúdez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia; (N.J.G.-F.); (E.N.-Q.)
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia;
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Xu P, Li S, Liu K, Fan R, Liu F, Zhang H, Liu D, Shen D. Downregulation of dermatopontin in cholangiocarcinoma cells suppresses CCL19 secretion of macrophages and immune infiltration. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:66. [PMID: 38300311 PMCID: PMC10834663 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05532-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The tumor microenvironment (TME) in cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) is typically characterized by a low level of immune infiltration, which accounts for the dismal prognosis of this patient population. This study sought to investigate the mechanisms underlying the reduced infiltration of immune cells into the CHOL TME. METHODS We constructed a Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression model to identify prognosis-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The 'Corrplot' package was employed to analyze the correlation between dermatopontin (DPT) and immune infiltration in CHOL. The Tumor and Immune System Interaction Database (TISIDB) was used to evaluate the association between DPT and immunology. Single-cell analysis was conducted to localize CCL19 secretions. Western blot and qPCR were utilized to detect DPT expression, while immunofluorescence was performed to investigate the cellular localization of DPT. Additionally, ELISA analysis was employed to assess the alteration in CCL19 secretion in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and macrophages. RESULTS Our findings revealed that CHOL patients with low DPT expression had a poorer prognosis. Enrichment analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between DPT levels and the infiltration of immunomodulators and immune cells. Moreover, high DPT levels were associated with enhanced anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapeutic responses. Furthermore, DPT expression impacted the landscape of gene mutations, showing a negative association with tumor grade, stage, and lymph node metastasis. Based on the results of protein peptides analysis and cell experiments, it was inferred that the downregulation of DPT in CHOL cells effectively suppressed the secretion of CCL19 in macrophages. CONCLUSIONS DPT is a novel prognosis-related biomarker for CHOL patients, and this study provides preliminary insights into the mechanism by which DPT promotes the infiltration of immune cells into the CHOL TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xu
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Siyang Li
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ke Liu
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Rui Fan
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Fahui Liu
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Haoxuan Zhang
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Donghua Liu
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Dongyan Shen
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No. 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian Province, China.
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Wu SJ, Lin CT, Liao CH, Lin CM. Immunotherapeutic potential of blinatumomab-secreting γ9δ2 T Cells. Transl Oncol 2023; 31:101650. [PMID: 36917873 PMCID: PMC10024132 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have explored the use of engineered blinatumomab-secreting autologous αβ T cells for CD19-targeted cancer therapy. To create a more flexible allogeneic delivery system, we utilized γ9δ2 T cells rather than αβ T cells in a similar application. First, we showed that γ9δ2 T cells could serve as effector cells for blinatumomab, and these effector memory cells could survive for at least 7 days after infusion. The genetically modified blinatumomab-secreting γ9δ2 T cells induced significant cytotoxicity in CD19+ tumor cell lines and primary cells from chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. Of note, blinatumomab-secreting γ9δ2 T cells might also exhibit dual-targeting of CD19 and isopentenyl pyrophosphate, a universal tumor-associated antigen. Furthermore, blinatumomab-secreting γ9δ2 T cells killed CD19-transfected adherent cells, suggesting that the γ9δ2 T cells might be effective for treating solid tumors with appropriate cancer antigens. Together, these results demonstrate the promise of blinatumomab-secreting γ9δ2 T cells as a cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Ju Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Hematological Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Ting Lin
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Hematological Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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Yu F, Gao Y, Wu Y, Dai A, Wang X, Zhang X, Liu G, Xu Q, Chen D. Combination of a Novel Fusion Protein CD3εζ28 and Bispecific T Cell Engager Enhances the Persistance and Anti-Cancer Effects of T Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194947. [PMID: 36230871 PMCID: PMC9563022 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194947] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bi-specific T cell engager (BiTE), an artificial bi-functional fusion protein, has shown promising therapeutic potential in preclinical and clinical studies. However, T cells cannot be sufficiently activated by BiTE, most likely due to lacking co-stimulatory signal. We reasoned that incorporating co-stimulatory signal might have the potential to enhance the T cell activation mediated by BiTE. We, therefore, designed a chimeric fusion protein, named as CD3εζ28, which consists of the CD3ε extracellular region, the CD28 costimulatory signal and the intracellular region of CD3ζ in tandem. T cells genetically modified to express both CD3εζ28 and GFP (T-CD3εζ28-GFP) were generated by retroviral transduction. The results from in vitro experiments showed that T-CD3εζCD28-GFP cells had superior cytotoxic effects on tumor cells in presence of BiTE compared with control T cells, as evidenced by IL-2 and IFN-γ production, T cell proliferation and sequential killing assay. In vivo, T-CD3εζCD28-GFP cells showed superior anti-tumor effects in Hela-BiTE. EGFRvIII xenograft tumor model, as evaluated by tumor growth rate and T cell persistence in comparison with control T cells. In order to further confirm these findings, we generated T cells modified to express both CD3εζCD28 on cell surface and BiTE.CD19 by autocrine manner (T-CD3εζCD28-BiTE.19). The superior anti-tumor effects of T-CD3εζCD28-BiTE.19 cells could also be evidenced by the similar in vitro and in vivo experiments; thus, incorporating co-stimulatory signal may be an effective approach to improve the effector function of T cells mediated by BiTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yang Gao
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yan Wu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Anran Dai
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Suqian First People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suqian 223812, China
| | - Xiangzhi Zhang
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Guodong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Suqian First People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suqian 223812, China
| | - Qinggang Xu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Dongfeng Chen
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-15951288195
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5
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Mu-Mosley H, Ostermann L, Muftuoglu M, Vaidya A, Bonifant CL, Velasquez MP, Gottschalk S, Andreeff M. Transgenic Expression of IL15 Retains CD123-Redirected T Cells in a Less Differentiated State Resulting in Improved Anti-AML Activity in Autologous AML PDX Models. Front Immunol 2022; 13:880108. [PMID: 35615350 PMCID: PMC9124830 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.880108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy with T-cells expressing bispecific T-cell engagers (ENG T-cells) is a promising approach to improve the outcomes for patients with recurrent/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, similar to T-cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), their antitumor activity is limited in the setting of chronic antigen stimulation. We therefore set out to explore whether transgenic expression of IL15 improves the effector function of ENG T-cells targeting CD123-positive AML. T-cells expressing CD123-specific ENG (CD123-ENG) ± IL15 were generated by retroviral transduction from peripheral blood T cells from healthy donors or patients with AML. In this study, we characterized in detail the phenotype and effector functions of ENG T-cell populations in vitro and in vivo. IL15-expressing CD123-ENG (CD123-ENG.IL15) T-cells retained their antigen-specificity and effector function in the setting of chronic antigen exposure for more 30 days of coculture with AML blasts in contrast to CD123-ENG T-cells, whose effector function rapidly eroded. Furthermore, CD123-ENG.IL15 T-cells remained in a less differentiated state as judged by a high frequency of naïve/memory stem T-cell-like cells (CD45RA+CCR7+/CD45RO−CD62L+ cells) without evidence of T-cell exhaustion. Single cell cytokine profiling using IsoPlexis revealed enhanced T-cell polyfunctionality of CD123-ENG.IL15 T-cells as judged by effector cytokine production, including, granzyme B, IFN-γ, MIP-1α, perforin, TNF-α, and TNF-β. In vivo, CD123-ENG.IL15 T-cells exhibited superior antigen-specific anti-AML activity and T-cell persistence in both peripheral blood and tissues (BM, spleens, and livers), resulting in a significant survival advantage in one AML xenograft model and two autologous AML PDX models. In conclusion, we demonstrate here that the expansion, persistence, and anti-AML activity of CD123-ENG T-cells can be significantly improved by transgenic expression of IL15, which promotes a naïve/TSCM-like phenotype. However, we also highlight that targeting a single tumor antigen (CD123) can lead to immune escape, reinforcing the need to develop approaches to target multiple antigens. Likewise, our study demonstrates that it is feasible to evaluate autologous T cells in AML PDX models, which will be critical for future preclinical evaluations of next generation AML-redirected T-cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Mu-Mosley
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lauren Ostermann
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Muharrem Muftuoglu
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Abishek Vaidya
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Challice L. Bonifant
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mireya Paulina Velasquez
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael Andreeff, ; Stephen Gottschalk,
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael Andreeff, ; Stephen Gottschalk,
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6
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Li G, Reid KM, Spitler K, Beatty N, Boucher J, Davila ML. CD3 engagement as a new strategy for allogeneic “off-the-shelf” T cell therapy. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 24:887-896. [PMID: 35317526 PMCID: PMC8919219 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic “off-the-shelf” (OTS) chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) hold promise for more accessible CAR-T therapy. Here, we report a novel and simple way to make allogeneic OTS T cells targeting cancer. By engineering T cells with a bispecific T cell engager (BiTE), both TCRαβ and CD3ε expression on the T cell surface are dramatically reduced. BiTE-engineered T (BiTE-T) cells show reduced reaction to TCR stimulation in vitro and have low risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) in vivo. BiTE-T cells down-regulated CD3ε/TCRαβ on bystander T cells by releasing BiTEs. BiTE-T cells produce much fewer cytokines and are comparable to CAR-T cells on anti-cancer efficacy in xenograft mouse models with pre-existing HLA-mismatched T cells. Co-expressing co-stimulatory factors or T cell-promoting cytokines enhanced BiTE-T cells. Our study suggests CD3ε engagement could be a new strategy for allogeneic T cell therapy worthy of further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gongbo Li
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Corresponding author Gongbo Li, Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Kayla M. Reid
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Kristen Spitler
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Nolan Beatty
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Justin Boucher
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Marco L. Davila
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Corresponding author Marco L. Davila, Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Division of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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7
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Belmontes B, Sawant DV, Zhong W, Tan H, Kaul A, Aeffner F, O'Brien SA, Chun M, Noubade R, Eng J, Ma H, Muenz M, Li P, Alba BM, Thomas M, Cook K, Wang X, DeVoss J, Egen JG, Nolan-Stevaux O. Immunotherapy combinations overcome resistance to bispecific T cell engager treatment in T cell-cold solid tumors. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/608/eabd1524. [PMID: 34433637 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd1524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches are needed to promote T cell-mediated destruction of poorly immunogenic, "cold" tumors typically associated with minimal response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) molecules induce redirected lysis of cancer cells by polyclonal T cells and have demonstrated promising clinical activity against solid tumors in some patients. However, little is understood about the key factors that govern clinical responses to these therapies. Using an immunocompetent mouse model expressing a humanized CD3ε chain (huCD3e mice) and BiTE molecules directed against mouse CD19, mouse CLDN18.2, or human EPCAM antigens, we investigated the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters and immune correlates associated with BiTE efficacy across multiple syngeneic solid-tumor models. These studies demonstrated that pretreatment tumor-associated T cell density is a critical determinant of response to BiTE therapy, identified CD8+ T cells as important targets and mediators of BiTE activity, and revealed an antagonistic role for CD4+ T cells in BiTE efficacy. We also identified therapeutic combinations, including ICB and 4-1BB agonism, that synergized with BiTE treatment in poorly T cell-infiltrated, immunotherapy-refractory tumors. In these models, BiTE efficacy was dependent on local expansion of tumor-associated CD8+ T cells, rather than their recruitment from circulation. Our findings highlight the relative contributions of baseline T cell infiltration, local T cell proliferation, and peripheral T cell trafficking for BiTE molecule-mediated efficacy, identify combination strategies capable of overcoming resistance to BiTE therapy, and have clinical relevance for the development of BiTE and other T cell engager therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Belmontes
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Deepali V Sawant
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Wendy Zhong
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hong Tan
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Anupurna Kaul
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Famke Aeffner
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sarah A O'Brien
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Matthew Chun
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Rajkumar Noubade
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jason Eng
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hayley Ma
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Markus Muenz
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Amgen Research GmbH, Munich 81477, Germany
| | - Peng Li
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Benjamin M Alba
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Melissa Thomas
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Kevin Cook
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Xiaoting Wang
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jason DeVoss
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jackson G Egen
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. .,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Olivier Nolan-Stevaux
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. .,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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8
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Transient blockade of TBK1/IKKε allows efficient transduction of primary human natural killer cells with vesicular stomatitis virus G-pseudotyped lentiviral vectors. Cytotherapy 2021; 23:787-792. [PMID: 34119434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV-G)-pseudotyped lentiviral vectors (LVs) are widely used to reliably generate genetically modified, clinical-grade T-cell products. However, the results of genetically modifying natural killer (NK) cells with VSV-G LVs have been variable. The authors explored whether inhibition of the IKK-related protein kinases TBK1 and IKKε, key signaling molecules of the endosomal TLR4 pathway, which is activated by VSV-G, would enable the reliable transduction of NK cells by VSV-G LVs. METHODS The authors activated NK cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells using standard procedures and transduced them with VSV-G LVs encoding a marker gene (yellow fluorescent protein [YFP]) or functional genes (chimeric antigen receptors [CARs], co-stimulatory molecules) in the presence of three TBK1/IKKε inhibitors (MRT67307, BX-795, amlexanox). NK cell transduction was evaluated by flow cytometry and/or western blot and the functionality of expressed CARs was evaluated in vitro. RESULTS Blocking TBK1/IKKε during transduction of NK cells enabled their efficient transduction by VSV-G LVs as judged by YFPexpression of 40-50%, with half maximal effective concentrations of 1.1 µM (MRT67307), 5 µM (BX-795) and 24.8 µM (amlexanox). Focusing on MRT67307, the authors successfully generated NK cells expressing CD19-CARs or HER2-CARs with an inducible co-stimulatory molecule. CAR NK cells exhibited increased cytolytic activity and ability to produce cytokines in comparison to untreated controls, confirming CAR functionality. CONCLUSIONS The authors demonstrate that inhibition of TBK1/IKKε enables the reliable generation of genetically modified NK cells using VSV-G LVs. The authors' protocol can be readily adapted to generate clinical-grade NK cells and thus has the potential to facilitate the clinical evaluation of genetically modified NK cell-based therapeutics in the future.
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9
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Arnone CM, Polito VA, Mastronuzzi A, Carai A, Diomedi FC, Antonucci L, Petrilli LL, Vinci M, Ferrari F, Salviato E, Scarsella M, De Stefanis C, Weber G, Quintarelli C, De Angelis B, Brenner MK, Gottschalk S, Hoyos V, Locatelli F, Caruana I, Del Bufalo F. Oncolytic adenovirus and gene therapy with EphA2-BiTE for the treatment of pediatric high-grade gliomas. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e001930. [PMID: 33963009 PMCID: PMC8108682 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) are among the most common and incurable malignant neoplasms of childhood. Despite aggressive, multimodal treatment, the outcome of children with high-grade gliomas has not significantly improved over the past decades, prompting the development of innovative approaches. METHODS To develop an effective treatment, we aimed at improving the suboptimal antitumor efficacy of oncolytic adenoviruses (OAs) by testing the combination with a gene-therapy approach using a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) directed towards the erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular carcinoma A2 receptor (EphA2), conveyed by a replication-incompetent adenoviral vector (EphA2 adenovirus (EAd)). The combinatorial approach was tested in vitro, in vivo and thoroughly characterized at a molecular level. RESULTS After confirming the relevance of EphA2 as target in pHGGs, documenting a significant correlation with worse clinical outcome of the patients, we showed that the proposed strategy provides significant EphA2-BiTE amplification and enhanced tumor cell apoptosis, on coculture with T cells. Moreover, T-cell activation through an agonistic anti-CD28 antibody further increased the activation/proliferation profiles and functional response against infected tumor cells, inducing eradication of highly resistant, primary pHGG cells. The gene-expression analysis of tumor cells and T cells, after coculture, revealed the importance of both EphA2-BiTE and costimulation in the proposed system. These in vitro observations translated into significant tumor control in vivo, in both subcutaneous and a more challenging orthotopic model. CONCLUSIONS The combination of OA and EphA2-BiTE gene therapy strongly enhances the antitumor activity of OA, inducing the eradication of highly resistant tumor cells, thus supporting the clinical translation of the approach.
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MESH Headings
- Adenoviridae/genetics
- Adenoviridae/metabolism
- Adenoviridae/pathogenicity
- Animals
- Antibodies, Bispecific/genetics
- Antibodies, Bispecific/metabolism
- Apoptosis
- Brain Neoplasms/genetics
- Brain Neoplasms/metabolism
- Brain Neoplasms/therapy
- Brain Neoplasms/virology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Coculture Techniques
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genetic Therapy
- Genetic Vectors
- Glioma/genetics
- Glioma/metabolism
- Glioma/therapy
- Glioma/virology
- Humans
- Lymphocyte Activation
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Mice, SCID
- Neoplasm Grading
- Oncolytic Virotherapy
- Oncolytic Viruses/genetics
- Oncolytic Viruses/metabolism
- Oncolytic Viruses/pathogenicity
- Receptor, EphA2/genetics
- Receptor, EphA2/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Manuela Arnone
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Vinicia Assunta Polito
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Carai
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Antonucci
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Lisa Petrilli
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vinci
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrari
- The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, IFOM, Milano, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Genetics National Research Council, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Salviato
- The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, IFOM, Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Scarsella
- Flow Cytometry and Histology Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano De Stefanis
- Flow Cytometry and Histology Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gerrit Weber
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Quintarelli
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Biagio De Angelis
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Malcolm K Brenner
- Baylor College of Medicine Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Valentina Hoyos
- Baylor College of Medicine Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Ignazio Caruana
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Del Bufalo
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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10
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Gao Y, Wang Y, Luo F, Chu Y. Optimization of T Cell Redirecting Strategies: Obtaining Inspirations From Natural Process of T Cell Activation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:664329. [PMID: 33981310 PMCID: PMC8107274 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.664329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) or bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) redirected T cell against tumors is one of the most promising immunotherapy approaches. However, insufficient clinical outcomes are still observed in treatments of both solid and non-solid tumors. Limited efficacy and poor persistence are two major challenges in redirected T cell therapies. The immunological synapse (IS) is a vital component during the T cell response, which largely determines the clinical outcomes of T cell-based therapies. Here, we review the structural and signaling characteristics of IS formed by natural T cells and redirected T cells. Furthermore, inspired by the elaborate natural T cell receptor-mediated IS, we provide potential strategies for higher efficacy and longer persistence of redirected T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyuan Gao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Biotherapy Research Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuedi Wang
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Biotherapy Research Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Luo
- Biotherapy Research Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Digestive Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiwei Chu
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Biotherapy Research Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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11
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Martens AWJ, Janssen SR, Derks IAM, Adams Iii HC, Izhak L, van Kampen R, Tonino SH, Eldering E, van der Windt GJW, Kater AP. CD3xCD19 DART molecule treatment induces non-apoptotic killing and is efficient against high-risk chemotherapy and venetoclax-resistant chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2019-000218. [PMID: 32581054 PMCID: PMC7319711 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2019-000218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bispecific antibodies are promising new therapeutics in B cell malignancies. Whether they lead to potent T cell activation despite described T cell dysfunction in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and are able to effectively target high-risk or venetoclax-resistant samples, is currently unknown. METHODS CD19+ cell lines or primary (high-risk) CLL were cocultured in vitro with healthy donor (HD) or CLL-derived T cells in the presence of a CD3xCD19 dual affinity retargeting molecule (CD3xCD19 DART). Cell cytotoxicity, T cell activation, proliferation and effector molecule production were analyzed using flow cytometry. RESULTS Here, we report that a bispecific CD3xCD19 DART mediates efficient killing by HD T cells of CD19+ cell-lines and primary CLL cells, regardless of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (IGHV) mutational status TP53 status or chemotherapy, ibrutinib or venetoclax sensitivity. Whereas TCR stimulation of CLL-derived T cells resulted in dysfunctional T cell activation and proliferation, treatment with CD3xCD19 DART led to a similar activation profile in CLL-derived and HD-derived T cells. Consistently, co-culture of CLL derived T cells with JeKo-1 or CLL cells in the presence of CD3xCD19 DART resulted in significant cytotoxicity by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. On stimulation of CLL cells with CD40L, CLL cells become resistant to the specific inhibitor of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein venetoclax, due to upregulation of Bcl-2 family members such as Bcl-XL. Nevertheless, CD40L stimulated CLL cells were as efficiently lysed on CD3xCD19 DART treatment as unstimulated CLL cells. Further examination of the mechanism of CD3xCD19 DART mediated killing showed that lysis was dependent on granules, but was independent of BAX/BAK or caspase activity, indicating non-apoptotic cell death. CONCLUSIONS These data show that CD3xCD19 DART in CLL leads to robust T cell activation and lysis of high-risk venetoclax resistant CLL cells through a non-apoptotic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne W J Martens
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne R Janssen
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid A M Derks
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Homer C Adams Iii
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson and Johnson, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Liat Izhak
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson and Johnson, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Roel van Kampen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne H Tonino
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Eldering
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerritje J W van der Windt
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arnon P Kater
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam and Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Gardell JL, Matsumoto LR, Chinn H, DeGolier KR, Kreuser SA, Prieskorn B, Balcaitis S, Davis A, Ellenbogen RG, Crane CA. Human macrophages engineered to secrete a bispecific T cell engager support antigen-dependent T cell responses to glioblastoma. J Immunother Cancer 2020; 8:jitc-2020-001202. [PMID: 33122397 PMCID: PMC7597484 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted and effective treatment options are needed for solid tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM), where survival rates with standard treatments are typically less than 2 years from diagnosis. Solid tumors pose many barriers to immunotherapies, including therapy half-life and persistence, tumor penetrance, and targeting. Therapeutics delivered systemically may not traffic to the tumor site. If cellular therapies or drugs are able to access the tumor site, or can be delivered directly within the tumor, treatments may not persist for the duration necessary to reduce or eliminate tumor burden. An approach that allows durable and titratable local therapeutic protein delivery could improve antitumor efficacy while minimizing toxicities or unwanted on-target, off-tissue effects. METHODS In this study, human monocyte-derived macrophages were genetically engineered to secrete a bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) specific to the mutated epidermal growth factor variant III (EGFRvIII) expressed by some GBM tumors. We investigated the ability of lentivirally modified macrophages to secrete a functional BiTE that can bind target tumor antigen and activate T cells. Secreted BiTE protein was assayed in a range of T cell functional assays in vitro and in subcutaneous and intracranial GBM xenograft models. Finally, we tested genetically engineered macrophages (GEMs) secreting BiTE and the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-12 to amplify T cell responses in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Transduced human macrophages secreted a lentivirally encoded functional EGFRvIII-targeted BiTE protein capable of inducing T cell activation, proliferation, degranulation, and killing of antigen-specific tumor cells. Furthermore, BiTE secreting macrophages reduced early tumor burden in both subcutaneous and intracranial mouse models of GBM, a response which was enhanced using macrophages that were dual transduced to secrete both the BiTE protein and single chain IL-12, preventing tumor growth in an aggressive GBM model. CONCLUSIONS The ability of macrophages to infiltrate and persist in solid tumor tissue could overcome many of the obstacles associated with systemic delivery of immunotherapies. We have found that human GEMs can locally and constitutively express one or more therapeutic proteins, which may help recruit T cells and transform the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment to better support antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Gardell
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lisa R Matsumoto
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Harrison Chinn
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kole R DeGolier
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Shannon A Kreuser
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Brooke Prieskorn
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Stephanie Balcaitis
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Amira Davis
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Richard G Ellenbogen
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Courtney A Crane
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA .,Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Mozart Therapeutics, Seattle, WA, USE
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13
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Chitadze G, Laqua A, Lettau M, Baldus CD, Brüggemann M. Bispecific antibodies in acute lymphoblastic leukemia therapy. Expert Rev Hematol 2020; 13:1211-1233. [PMID: 33000968 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2020.1831380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blinatumomab, first in a class of bispecific T-cell engagers, revolutionized treatment paradigm of B-cell precursor relapsed/refractory or minimal residual disease positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults and children, inducing deep remissions in a proportion of patients. However, significant numbers of patients do not respond or eventually relapse. Strategies for improvement of treatment outcomes are required. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the main structural and functional features of blinatumomab, and its place in the treatment of ALL. Furthermore, prospects to increase the efficacy of blinatumomab are addressed. The developments in the field of bispecific antibodies and their possible implications for treatment of ALL are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION Better understanding the mechanisms of response and resistance to blinatumomab might help us to identify the group of patients benefiting most from treatment and to spare potentially toxic subsequent treatment strategies. Data emerging from ongoing clinical trials might change the treatment landscape of ALL and beyond. Early use of blinatumomab in frontline protocols with more advantageous treatment sequences and in combination with other targeted therapies might reduce the failure rates. Exponentially increasing number of novel treatment options and their possible combinations might complicate treatment decision-making without data from randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guranda Chitadze
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anna Laqua
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Marcus Lettau
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany.,Institute of Immunology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claudia D Baldus
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Monika Brüggemann
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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14
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Riberdy JM, Zhou S, Zheng F, Kim YI, Moore J, Vaidya A, Throm RE, Sykes A, Sahr N, Bonifant CL, Ryu B, Gottschalk S, Velasquez MP. The Art and Science of Selecting a CD123-Specific Chimeric Antigen Receptor for Clinical Testing. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2020; 18:571-581. [PMID: 32775492 PMCID: PMC7393323 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting CD123, an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) antigen, hold the promise of improving outcomes for patients with refractory/recurrent disease. We generated five lentiviral vectors encoding CD20, which may serve as a target for CAR T cell depletion, and 2nd or 3rd generation CD123-CARs since the benefit of two costimulatory domains is model dependent. Four CARs were based on the CD123-specific single-chain variable fragment (scFv) 26292 (292) and one CAR on the CD123-specific scFv 26716 (716), respectively. We designed CARs with different hinge/transmembrane (H/TM) domains and costimulatory domains, in combination with the zeta (z) signaling domain: 292.CD8aH/TM.41BBz (8.41BBz), 292.CD8aH/TM.CD28z (8.28z), 716.CD8aH/TM.CD28z (716.8.28z), 292.CD28H/TM. CD28z (28.28z), and 292.CD28H/TM.CD28.41BBz (28.28.41BBz). Transduction efficiency, expansion, phenotype, and target cell recognition of the generated CD123-CAR T cells did not significantly differ. CAR constructs were eliminated for the following reasons: (1) 8.41BBz CARs induced significant baseline signaling, (2) 716.8.28z CAR T cells had decreased anti-AML activity, and (3) CD28.41BBz CAR T cells had no improved effector function in comparison to CD28z CAR T cells. We selected the 28.28z CAR since CAR expression on the cell surface of transduced T cells was higher in comparison to 8.28z CARs. The clinical study (NCT04318678) evaluating 28.28z CAR T cells is now open for patient accrual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice M. Riberdy
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Sheng Zhou
- Experimental Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Fei Zheng
- Experimental Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Young-In Kim
- Experimental Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jennifer Moore
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Abishek Vaidya
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Robert E. Throm
- Vector Development and Production Laboratory, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - April Sykes
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Natasha Sahr
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Byoung Ryu
- Vector Development and Production Laboratory, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Mireya Paulina Velasquez
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
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15
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Blanco B, Ramírez-Fernández Á, Alvarez-Vallina L. Engineering Immune Cells for in vivo Secretion of Tumor-Specific T Cell-Redirecting Bispecific Antibodies. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1792. [PMID: 32903593 PMCID: PMC7438551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapeutic approaches based on the redirection of T cell activity toward tumor cells are actively being investigated. The impressive clinical success of the continuously intravenously infused T cell-redirecting bispecific antibody (T-bsAb) blinatumomab (anti-CD19 x anti-CD3), and of engineered T cells expressing anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptors (CAR-T cells) in hematological malignancies, has led to renewed interest in a novel cancer immunotherapy strategy that combines features of antibody- and cell-based therapies. This emerging approach is based on the endogenous secretion of T-bsAbs by engineered T cells (STAb-T cells). Adoptive transfer of genetically modified STAb-T cells has demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity in both solid tumor and hematologic preclinical xenograft models. We review here the potential benefits of the STAb-T strategy over similar approaches currently being used in clinic, and we discuss the potential combination of this promising strategy with the well-established CAR-T cell approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Blanco
- Cancer Immunotherapy Unit (UNICA), Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Immuno-Oncology and Immunotherapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Ramírez-Fernández
- Cancer Immunotherapy Unit (UNICA), Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Immuno-Oncology and Immunotherapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Alvarez-Vallina
- Cancer Immunotherapy Unit (UNICA), Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Immuno-Oncology and Immunotherapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
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16
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Youness RA, Gad AZ, Sanber K, Ahn YJ, Lee GJ, Khallaf E, Hafez HM, Motaal AA, Ahmed N, Gad MZ. Targeting hydrogen sulphide signaling in breast cancer. J Adv Res 2020; 27:177-190. [PMID: 33318876 PMCID: PMC7728592 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) has been established as a key member of the gasotransmitters family that recently showed a pivotal role in various pathological conditions including cancer. Objectives This study investigated the role of H2S in breast cancer (BC) pathogenesis, on BC immune recognition capacity and the consequence of targeting H2S using non-coding RNAs. Methods Eighty BC patients have been recruited for the study. BC cell lines were cultured and transfected using validated oligonucleotide delivery system. Gene and protein expression analysis was performed using qRT-PCR, western blot and flow-cytometry. In-vitro analysis for BC hallmarks was performed using MTT, BrdU, Modified Boyden chamber, migration and colony forming assays. H2S and nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Primary natural killer cells (NK cells) and T cell isolation and chimeric antigen receptor transduction (CAR T cells) were performed using appropriate kits. NK and T cells cytotoxicity was measured. Finally, computational target prediction analysis and binding confirmation analyses were performed using different software and dual luciferase assay kit, respectively. Results The H2S synthesizing enzymes, cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), exhibited elevated levels in the clinical samples that correlated with tumor proliferation index. Knock-down of CBS and CSE in the HER2+ BC and triple negative BC (TNBC) cells resulted in significant attenuation of BC malignancy. In addition to increased susceptibility of HER2+ BC and TNBC to the cytotoxic activity of HER2 targeting CAR T cells and NK cells, respectively. Transcriptomic and phosphoprotein analysis revealed that H2S signaling is mediated through Akt in MCF7, STAT3 in MDA-MB-231 and miR-155/ NOS2/NO signaling in both cell lines. Lastly, miR-4317 was found to function as an upstream regulator of CBS and CSE synergistically abrogates the malignancy of BC cells. Conclusion These findings demonstrate the potential role of H2S signaling in BC pathogenesis and the potential of its targeting for disease mitigation.
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Key Words
- 41BBL, 41BB Ligand
- 51Cr-release, Chromium release assay
- BC, Breast Cancer
- Breast cancer
- CAR T cells
- CAR, Chimeric antigen receptor
- CBS, Cystathionine β-synthase
- CD80, Cluster of differentiation 80
- CD86, Cluster of differentiation 86
- CSE, Cystathionine γ-lyase
- CTL, Cytotoxic T lymphocyte
- H2S, Hydrogen sulphide
- HCC, Hepatocellular carcinoma
- HLA-DR, Human Leukocytic antigen DR
- Hydrogen sulphide
- IFN-γ, Interferon gamma
- KD, Knock down
- LDH, Lactate dehydrogenase Assay
- MICA/B, MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A/B
- NK, Natural killer
- NKG2D, Natural Killer Group 2D
- NO, Nitric oxide
- NOS2, Inducible nitric oxide synthase-2
- NOS3, Endothelial nitric oxide synthase-3
- Natural killer cells
- Nitric oxide
- PD-L1, Programmed death-ligand 1
- PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
- Scr-miRNAs, Scrambled microRNAs
- Scr-siRNAs, Scrambled siRNAs
- TNBC, Triple negative breast cancer
- TNF-α, Tumor necrosis factor-α
- ULBP2/5/6, UL16 binding protein 2/5/6
- miR-155/NOS2/NO signaling pathway
- miR-4317
- miRNA, MicroRNA
- ncRNAs, Non-coding RNAs
- siRNAs, Small interfering RNAs
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Ahmed Youness
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Zakaria Gad
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Khaled Sanber
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yong Jin Ahn
- Department of Medical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Ja Lee
- Department of Medical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Emad Khallaf
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 12613 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hafez Mohamed Hafez
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 12613 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Abdel Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Nabil Ahmed
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mohamed Zakaria Gad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
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17
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LunX-CAR T Cells as a Targeted Therapy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2020; 17:361-370. [PMID: 32405534 PMCID: PMC7210386 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) carries a high mortality, and efficacious therapy is lacking. Therapy using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has been used efficaciously against hematologic malignancies, but the curative effect against solid tumors is not satisfactory. A lack of antigen targets is one of the main reasons for this limited efficacy. Previously, we showed that lung-specific X (LUNX; also known as BPIFA1, PLUNC, and SPLUNC1) is overexpressed in lung cancer cells. Here, we constructed a CAR-T-cell-based strategy to target LunX (CARLunX T cells). CAR T cells were developed so that, upon specific recognition of LunX, they secreted cytokines and killed LunX-positive NSCLC cells. In vitro, CARLunX T cells displayed enhanced toxicity toward NSCLC lines and production of cytokines and showed specific LunX-dependent recognition of NSCLC cells. Adoptive transfer of CARLunX T cells induced regression of established metastatic lung cancer xenografts and prolonged survival. CARLunX T cells could infiltrate into the tumor. Also, we constructed a patient-derived xenograft model of lung cancer. After therapy with CARLunX T cells, tumor growth was suppressed, and survival was prolonged significantly. Together, our findings offer preclinical evidence of the immunotherapeutic targeting of LunX as a strategy to treat NSCLC.
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18
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Epperly R, Gottschalk S, Velasquez MP. Harnessing T Cells to Target Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia: CARs, BiTEs, and Beyond. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 7:E14. [PMID: 32079207 PMCID: PMC7072334 DOI: 10.3390/children7020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Outcomes for pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain poor, highlighting the need for improved targeted therapies. Building on the success of CD19-directed immune therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), efforts are ongoing to develop similar strategies for AML. Identifying target antigens for AML is challenging because of the high expression overlap in hematopoietic cells and normal tissues. Despite this, CD123 and CD33 antigen targeted therapies, among others, have emerged as promising candidates. In this review we focus on AML-specific T cell engaging bispecific antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. We review antigens being explored for T cell-based immunotherapy in AML, describe the landscape of clinical trials upcoming for bispecific antibodies and CAR T cells, and highlight strategies to overcome additional challenges facing translation of T cell-based immunotherapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Epperly
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
| | - Mireya Paulina Velasquez
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
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19
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Genetically Modified T-Cell Therapy for Osteosarcoma: Into the Roaring 2020s. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1257:109-131. [PMID: 32483735 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-43032-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
T-cell immunotherapy may offer an approach to improve outcomes for patients with osteosarcoma who fail current therapies. In addition, it has the potential to reduce treatment-related complications for all patients. Generating tumor-specific T cells with conventional antigen-presenting cells ex vivo is time-consuming and often results in T-cell products with a low frequency of tumor-specific T cells. Furthermore, the generated T cells remain sensitive to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Genetic modification of T cells is one strategy to overcome these limitations. For example, T cells can be genetically modified to render them antigen specific, resistant to inhibitory factors, or increase their ability to home to tumor sites. Most genetic modification strategies have only been evaluated in preclinical models; however, early clinical phase trials are in progress. In this chapter, we will review the current status of gene-modified T-cell therapy with special focus on osteosarcoma, highlighting potential antigenic targets, preclinical and clinical studies, and strategies to improve current T-cell therapy approaches.
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20
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Rader C. Bispecific antibodies in cancer immunotherapy. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2019; 65:9-16. [PMID: 31841859 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2019.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Among antibody-based cancer therapies, bispecific antibodies (biAbs) have gained momentum in preclinical and clinical investigations following the regulatory approvals of the trailblazing T-cell engaging biAb (T-biAb) blinatumomab. Discussed herein are recent strategies that aim at boosting the potency and mitigating the toxicity of T-biAbs, broadening their therapeutic utility from hematologic to solid malignancies, and generating T-biAbs in situ. In cancer immunotherapy, T-biAbs are facing fierce competition with chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-Ts), a battle for clinical and commercial viability that will be closely watched. However, innovative combinations of T-biAbs and CAR-Ts have also transpired. NK-cell engaging biAbs (NK-biAbs) are reemerging as an alternative that addresses liabilities of T-biAbs. Beyond NK-biAbs, other biAbs designed to recruit cellular and molecular components of the innate immune system will be covered in this reflection on new tools, technologies, and targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Rader
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
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21
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Strohl WR, Naso M. Bispecific T-Cell Redirection versus Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T Cells as Approaches to Kill Cancer Cells. Antibodies (Basel) 2019; 8:E41. [PMID: 31544847 PMCID: PMC6784091 DOI: 10.3390/antib8030041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The concepts for T-cell redirecting bispecific antibodies (TRBAs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are both at least 30 years old but both platforms are just now coming into age. Two TRBAs and two CAR-T cell products have been approved by major regulatory agencies within the last ten years for the treatment of hematological cancers and an additional 53 TRBAs and 246 CAR cell constructs are in clinical trials today. Two major groups of TRBAs include small, short-half-life bispecific antibodies that include bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTE®s) which require continuous dosing and larger, mostly IgG-like bispecific antibodies with extended pharmacokinetics that can be dosed infrequently. Most CAR-T cells today are autologous, although significant strides are being made to develop off-the-shelf, allogeneic CAR-based products. CAR-Ts form a cytolytic synapse with target cells that is very different from the classical immune synapse both physically and mechanistically, whereas the TRBA-induced synapse is similar to the classic immune synapse. Both TRBAs and CAR-T cells are highly efficacious in clinical trials but both also present safety concerns, particularly with cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. New formats and dosing paradigms for TRBAs and CAR-T cells are being developed in efforts to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity, as well as to optimize use with both solid and hematologic tumors, both of which present significant challenges such as target heterogeneity and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Strohl
- BiStro Biotech Consulting, LLC, 1086 Tullo Farm Rd., Bridgewater, NJ 08807, USA.
| | - Michael Naso
- Century Therapeutics, 3675 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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22
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Krawczyk E, Zolov SN, Huang K, Bonifant CL. T-cell Activity against AML Improved by Dual-Targeted T Cells Stimulated through T-cell and IL7 Receptors. Cancer Immunol Res 2019; 7:683-692. [PMID: 30782669 PMCID: PMC8186236 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-18-0748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The development of engineered T cells to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is challenging due to difficulty in target selection and the need for robust T-cell expansion and persistence. We designed a T cell stimulated to kill AML cells based on recognition of the AML-associated surface marker CLEC12A, via secretion of a CLEC12AxCD3 bispecific "engager" molecule (CLEC12A-ENG). CLEC12A-ENG T cells are specifically activated by CLEC12A, are not toxic to hematopoietic progenitor cells, and exhibit antigen-dependent AML killing. Next, we coupled stimulation of T-cell survival to triggering of a chimeric IL7 receptor with an ectodomain that binds a second AML-associated surface antigen, CD123. The resulting T cells, identified as CLEC12A-ENG.CD123IL7Rα T cells, demonstrate improved activation upon dual target recognition, kill AML, and exhibit antitumor activity in xenograft models. Enhanced T-cell activation conferred by CD123.IL7Rα was dependent both on recognition of the CD123 target and on IL7Rα-mediated downstream signaling. Expression of a chimeric IL7R targeted to a second tumor-associated antigen (TAA) should improve T-cell activity not only against hematologic malignancies, but perhaps against all cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Krawczyk
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sergey N Zolov
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kevin Huang
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Challice L Bonifant
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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23
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Blanco B, Compte M, Lykkemark S, Sanz L, Alvarez-Vallina L. T Cell-Redirecting Strategies to ‘STAb’ Tumors: Beyond CARs and Bispecific Antibodies. Trends Immunol 2019; 40:243-257. [DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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24
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Ti D, Niu Y, Wu Z, Fu X, Han W. Genetic engineering of T cells with chimeric antigen receptors for hematological malignancy immunotherapy. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2018; 61:1320-1332. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-018-9411-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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25
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Ellerman D. Bispecific T-cell engagers: Towards understanding variables influencing the in vitro potency and tumor selectivity and their modulation to enhance their efficacy and safety. Methods 2018; 154:102-117. [PMID: 30395966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2018.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bispecific molecules redirecting the cytotoxicity of T-cells are a growing class of therapeutics with numerous molecules being tested in clinical trials. However, it has been a long way since the proof of concept studies in the mid 1980's. In the process we have learnt about the impact of different variables related to the bispecific molecule and the target antigen on the potency of this type of drugs. This work reviews the insights gained and how that knowledge has been used to design more potent bispecific T-cell engagers. The more recent advancement of antibodies with this modality into safety studies in non-human primates and as well as in clinical studies has revealed potential toxicity liabilities for the mode of action. Modifications in existing antibody formats and new experimental molecules designed to mitigate these problems are discussed.
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