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Sima H, Shao W. Advancements in the design and function of bispecific CAR-T cells targeting B Cell-Associated tumor antigens. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:113166. [PMID: 39298818 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113166] [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: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 09/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Single-targeted CAR-T has exhibited notable success in treating B-cell tumors, effectively improving patient outcomes. However, the recurrence rate among patients remains above fifty percent, primarily attributed to antigen escape and the diminished immune persistence of CAR-T cells. Over recent years, there has been a surge of interest in bispecific CAR-T cell therapies, marked by an increasing number of research articles and clinical applications annually. This paper undertakes a comprehensive review of influential studies on the design of bispecific CAR-T in recent years, examining their impact on bispecific CAR-T efficacy concerning disease classification, targeted antigens, and CAR design. Notable distinctions in antigen targeting within B-ALL, NHL, and MM are explored, along with an analysis of how CAR scFv, transmembrane region, hinge region, and co-stimulatory region design influence Bi-CAR-T efficacy across different tumors. The summary provided aims to serve as a reference for designing novel and improved CAR-Ts, facilitating more efficient treatment for B-cell malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helin Sima
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenwei Shao
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Medical School of Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.
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2
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Tan MSY, Chen Y, Smith EL. Beyond BCMA: newer immune targets in myeloma. Blood Adv 2024; 8:4433-4446. [PMID: 38865708 PMCID: PMC11375259 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010856] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The identification and targeting of B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) through immunotherapeutic strategies such as antibody-drug conjugates, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and T-cell engagers have revolutionized the care of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). These treatment modalities have improved the survival outcomes of patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM compared with previously established strategies and are moving into earlier lines of therapy. Despite their efficacy, the majority of patients eventually relapse, necessitating additional therapeutic targets for salvage. G-protein-coupled receptor class 5 member D, Fc receptor-homolog 5, and SLAMF7 are some examples of novel targets in development. This expanding armamentarium of immunotherapeutic agents will be crucial to address the unmet need for relapses after BCMA-targeting therapies, particularly antigen-negative relapses. The utilization of sequential T-cell redirective therapies including agents targeting different tumor-associated antigens and combination therapies appears feasible, paving the way for effective chemotherapy-free regimes. Deliberate consideration of treatment timing, preserving T-cell health, overcoming antigenic loss, and comprehension of the complex tumor microenvironment would be key to maximizing therapeutic benefits and minimizing adverse effects. This review summarizes novel targets in development for myeloma beyond BCMA, presenting pivotal safety and efficacy data derived from clinical trials when available and the considerations vital for navigating this expanding landscape of immunotherapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda S Y Tan
- Department of Haematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Haematology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yunxin Chen
- Department of Haematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Haematology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eric L Smith
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
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3
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Thomas P, Paris P, Pecqueur C. Arming Vδ2 T Cells with Chimeric Antigen Receptors to Combat Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:3105-3116. [PMID: 38747974 PMCID: PMC11292201 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-3495] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach in the field of cancer treatment, with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy demonstrating remarkable success. However, challenges such as tumor antigen heterogeneity, immune evasion, and the limited persistence of CAR-T cells have prompted the exploration of alternative cell types for CAR-based strategies. Gamma delta T cells, a unique subset of lymphocytes with inherent tumor recognition capabilities and versatile immune functions, have garnered increasing attention in recent years. In this review, we present how arming Vδ2-T cells might be the basis for next-generation immunotherapies against solid tumors. Following a comprehensive overview of γδ T-cell biology and innovative CAR engineering strategies, we discuss the clinical potential of Vδ2 CAR-T cells in overcoming the current limitations of immunotherapy in solid tumors. Although the applications of Vδ2 CAR-T cells in cancer research are relatively in their infancy and many challenges are yet to be identified, Vδ2 CAR-T cells represent a promising breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Thomas
- Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, INSERM, CNRS, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre Paris
- Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, INSERM, CNRS, Nantes, France
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4
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Wei L, Meng J, Xiang D, Yang Q, Zhou Y, Xu L, Chen J, Han Y. The Pan-Cancer Analysis Uncovers the Prognostic and Immunotherapeutic Significance of CD19 as an Immune Marker in Tumor. Int J Gen Med 2024; 17:2593-2612. [PMID: 38855424 PMCID: PMC11162214 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s459914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The specific cytotoxic effects of anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy have led to impressive outcomes in individuals previously treated for B-cell malignancies. However, the specific biological role of CD19(+) target cells, which exert antitumor immunity against some solid tumors, remains to be elucidated. Methods We collected information regarding the level of CD19 mRNA and protein expression from various databases including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) for both tumor and normal samples. To evaluate the patient's prognosis according to CD19 expression, a Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis and univariate Cox regression were performed. Furthermore, using the Estimation of Stromal and Immune Cells in Malignant Tumor Tissues Using the Expression Data (ESTIMATE) algorithm, we estimated the ratio of immune cells infiltrating malignant tumor tissues. Afterward, the GSCALite repository was employed to evaluate the vulnerability of tumors expressing CD19 to drugs used in chemotherapy. To validate the results in clinical samples of certain cancer types, immunohistochemistry was then performed. Results Most tumor types exhibited CD19 expression differently, apart from colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). The early diagnostic value of CD19 has been demonstrated in 9 different tumor types, and the overexpression of CD19 has the potential to extend the survival duration of patients. Multiple tumors showed a positive correlation between CD19 expression and tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), and ESTIMATE score. Furthermore, a direct association was discovered between the expression of CD19 and the infiltration of immune cells, particularly in cases of breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA). Moreover, CD19 is highly sensitive to a variety of chemotherapy drugs. Conclusion The study reveals the potential of CD19 as both a predictive biomarker and a target for different cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanyi Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Danfeng Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Quanjun Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yangyun Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingyan Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junjun Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonglong Han
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People’s Republic of China
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5
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Zhao J, Zheng M, Ma L, Guan T, Su L. From spear to trident: Upgrading arsenal of CAR-T cells in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29997. [PMID: 38699030 PMCID: PMC11064441 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM), marked by abnormal proliferation of plasma cells and production of monoclonal immunoglobulin heavy or light chains in the majority of patients, has traditionally been associated with poor survival, despite improvements achieved in median survival in all age groups since the introduction of novel agents. Survival has significantly improved with the development of new drugs and new treatment options, such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), which have shown promise and given new hope in MM therapy. CARs are now classified as first-, second-, and third-generation CARs based on the number of monovalent to trivalent co-stimulatory molecules incorporated into their design. The scope of this review was relatively narrow because it was mainly about a comparison of the literature on the clinical application of CAR-T therapy in MM. Thus, our goal is to provide an overview of the new advances of CAR-T cells in the cure of MM, so in this review we looked at the progress of the clinical use of CAR-T cells in MM to try to provide a reference for their clinical use when managing MM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Li Ma
- Department of Hematology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Tao Guan
- Department of Hematology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Liping Su
- Department of Hematology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, China
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Roders N, Nakid-Cordero C, Raineri F, Fayon M, Abecassis A, Choisy C, Nelson E, Maillard C, Garrick D, Talbot A, Fermand JP, Arnulf B, Bories JC. Dual Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells Targeting CD38 and SLAMF7 with Independent Signaling Demonstrate Preclinical Efficacy and Safety in Multiple Myeloma. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:478-490. [PMID: 38289260 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0839] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for multiple myeloma targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) induces high overall response rates. However, relapse still occurs and novel strategies for targeting multiple myeloma cells using CAR T-cell therapy are needed. SLAMF7 (also known as CS1) and CD38 on tumor plasma cells represent potential alternative targets for CAR T-cell therapy in multiple myeloma, but their expression on activated T cells and other hematopoietic cells raises concerns about the efficacy and safety of such treatments. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9 deletion of the CD38 gene in T cells and developed DCAR, a double CAR system targeting CD38 and CS1 through activation and costimulation receptors, respectively. Inactivation of CD38 enhanced the anti-multiple myeloma activity of DCAR T in vitro. Edited DCAR T cells showed strong in vitro and in vivo responses specifically against target cells expressing both CD38 and CS1. Furthermore, we provide evidence that, unlike anti-CD38 CAR T-cell therapy, which elicited a rapid immune reaction against hematopoietic cells in a humanized mouse model, DCAR T cells showed no signs of toxicity. Thus, DCAR T cells could provide a safe and efficient alternative to anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy to treat patients with multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Roders
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Cecilia Nakid-Cordero
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Fabio Raineri
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Fayon
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Audrey Abecassis
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Caroline Choisy
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Elisabeth Nelson
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - David Garrick
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Alexis Talbot
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Immuno-Hematology, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Paul Fermand
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Immuno-Hematology, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Bertrand Arnulf
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Immuno-Hematology, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Bories
- INSERM, Human Immunology, Pathophysiology, Immunotherapy (HIPI), Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France
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7
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Li Y, Rezvani K, Rafei H. Next-generation chimeric antigen receptors for T- and natural killer-cell therapies against cancer. Immunol Rev 2023; 320:217-235. [PMID: 37548050 PMCID: PMC10841677 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive cellular therapy using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of various hematologic malignancies. However, the broad application of this approach for myeloid malignancies and solid cancers has been limited by the paucity and heterogeneity of target antigen expression, and lack of bona fide tumor-specific antigens that can be targeted without cross-reactivity against normal tissues. This may lead to unwanted on-target off-tumor toxicities that could undermine the desired antitumor effect. Recent advances in synthetic biology and genetic engineering have enabled reprogramming of immune effector cells to enhance their selectivity toward tumors, thus mitigating on-target off-tumor adverse effects. In this review, we outline the current strategies being explored to improve CAR selectivity toward tumor cells with a focus on natural killer (NK) cells, and the progress made in translating these strategies to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hind Rafei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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8
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van der Schans JJ, Wang Z, van Arkel J, van Schaik T, Katsarou A, Ruiter R, Baardemans T, Yuan H, de Bruijn J, Zweegman S, van de Donk NWCJ, Groen RWJ, Themeli M, Mutis T. Specific Targeting of Multiple Myeloma by Dual Split-signaling Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells Directed against CD38 and CD138. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:4219-4229. [PMID: 37527004 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The success of B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells illustrates the potential of this novel therapy for multiple myeloma. Nonetheless, broadening CAR T-cell therapy beyond BCMA requires inventive strategies as there are only a few multiple myeloma- or plasma cell-specific target antigens. We investigated the feasibility of achieving multiple myeloma specificity by dual-split CD38/CD138 CAR targeting, whereby the stimulatory and costimulatory signals for T-cell activation are split into two separate stimulatory (sCAR) and costimulatory CARs (cCAR). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Using various combinations of CD38 and CD138 sCARs and cCARs with different affinities, we generated several dual-split CAR T cells and analyzed them for multiple myeloma-specific effector functions in vitro. The best-functioning CAR T cells were tested in vivo in a murine xenograft model. RESULTS We found optimal designs of both CD38sCAR/CD138cCAR and CD138sCAR/CD38cCAR combinations, that effectively lysed multiple myeloma cells but spared single CD38- or CD138-positive healthy hematopoietic cells. While the CD38sCAR/CD138cCAR T cells achieved multiple myeloma-specific activity solely due to the low affinity of the CD38sCARs, the multiple myeloma-specific cytotoxicity, cytokine release, and proliferation of CD138sCAR/CD38cCAR T cells were established through a true combinatorial stimulatory and costimulatory effect. The most optimal combination comprised a low-affinity CD138sCAR combined with a high-affinity CD38cCAR. These CD138sCAR/CD38cCAR T cells also showed dual-antigen specific anti-multiple myeloma effects in vivo. Importantly, they were also effective against multiple myeloma cells from daratumumab pretreated patients with decreased CD38 expression levels. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate the possibility to specifically target multiple myeloma cells, even after CD38 targeted therapy, with carefully-designed dual-split CARs directed against CD38 and CD138.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jort J van der Schans
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jennemiek van Arkel
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs van Schaik
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Afroditi Katsarou
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruud Ruiter
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Baardemans
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Huipin Yuan
- Kuros Biosciences BV, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | | | - Sonja Zweegman
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Niels W C J van de Donk
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Richard W J Groen
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Themeli
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tuna Mutis
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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9
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Sajman J, Yakovian O, Unger Deshet N, Almog S, Horn G, Waks T, Globerson Levin A, Sherman E. Nanoscale CAR Organization at the Immune Synapse Correlates with CAR-T Effector Functions. Cells 2023; 12:2261. [PMID: 37759484 PMCID: PMC10527520 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are at the forefront of clinical treatment of cancers. Still, the nanoscale organization of CARs at the interface of CAR-Ts with target cells, which is essential for TCR-mediated T cell activation, remains poorly understood. Here, we studied the nanoscale organization of CARs targeting CD138 proteoglycans in such fixed and live interfaces, generated optimally for single-molecule localization microscopy. CARs showed significant self-association in nanoclusters that was enhanced in interfaces with on-target cells (SKOV-3, CAG, FaDu) relative to negative cells (OVCAR-3). CARs also segregated more efficiently from the abundant membrane phosphatase CD45 in CAR-T cells forming such interfaces. CAR clustering and segregation from CD45 correlated with the effector functions of Ca++ influx and target cell killing. Our results shed new light on the nanoscale organization of CARs on the surfaces of CAR-Ts engaging on- and off-target cells, and its potential significance for CAR-Ts' efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sajman
- Racah Institute of Physics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
- Jerusalem College of Technology, Jerusalem 91160, Israel
| | - Oren Yakovian
- Racah Institute of Physics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Naamit Unger Deshet
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Cell Therapy Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Shaked Almog
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Cell Therapy Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Galit Horn
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Cell Therapy Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Tova Waks
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Cell Therapy Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Anat Globerson Levin
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Cell Therapy Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Dotan Center for Advanced Therapies, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Eilon Sherman
- Racah Institute of Physics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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10
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Tarab‐Ravski D, Hazan‐Halevy I, Goldsmith M, Stotsky‐Oterin L, Breier D, Naidu GS, Aitha A, Diesendruck Y, Ng BD, Barsheshet H, Berger T, Vaxman I, Raanani P, Peer D. Delivery of Therapeutic RNA to the Bone Marrow in Multiple Myeloma Using CD38-Targeted Lipid Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301377. [PMID: 37171801 PMCID: PMC10375190 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of differentiated plasma cells that occurs in the bone marrow (BM). Despite the recent advancements in drug development, most patients with MM eventually relapse and the disease remains incurable. RNA therapy delivered via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) has the potential to be a promising cancer treatment, however, its clinical implementation is limited due to inefficient delivery to non-hepatic tissues. Here, targeted (t)LNPs designed for delivery of RNA payload to MM cells are presented. The tLNPs consist of a novel ionizable lipid and are coated with an anti-CD38 antibody (αCD38-tLNPs). To explore their therapeutic potential, it is demonstrated that LNPs encapsulating small interference RNA (siRNA) against cytoskeleton-associated protein 5 (CKAP5) lead to a ≈90% decrease in cell viability of MM cells in vitro. Next, a new xenograft MM mouse model is employed, which clinically resembles the human disease and demonstrates efficient homing of MM cells to the BM. Specific delivery of αCD38-tLNPs to BM-residing and disseminated MM cells and the improvement in therapeutic outcome of MM-bearing mice treated with αCD38-tLNPs-siRNA-CKAP5 are shown. These results underscore the potential of RNA therapeutics for treatment of MM and the importance of developing effective targeted delivery systems and reliable preclinical models.
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11
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Cassioli C, Patrussi L, Valitutti S, Baldari CT. Learning from TCR Signaling and Immunological Synapse Assembly to Build New Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:14255. [PMID: 36430728 PMCID: PMC9694822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy is a revolutionary pillar in cancer treatment. Clinical experience has shown remarkable successes in the treatment of certain hematological malignancies but only limited efficacy against B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other cancer types, especially solid tumors. A wide range of engineering strategies have been employed to overcome the limitations of CAR T cell therapy. However, it has become increasingly clear that CARs have unique, unexpected features; hence, a deep understanding of how CARs signal and trigger the formation of a non-conventional immunological synapse (IS), the signaling platform required for T cell activation and execution of effector functions, would lead a shift from empirical testing to the rational design of new CAR constructs. Here, we review current knowledge of CARs, focusing on their structure, signaling and role in CAR T cell IS assembly. We, moreover, discuss the molecular features accounting for poor responses in CLL patients treated with anti-CD19 CAR T cells and propose CLL as a paradigm for diseases connected to IS dysfunctions that could significantly benefit from the development of novel CARs to generate a productive anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cassioli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Patrussi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Salvatore Valitutti
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1037, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, 31037 Toulouse, France
- Department of Pathology, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Oncopole de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Cosima T. Baldari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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12
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Deshet-Unger N, Horn G, Rawet-Slobodkin M, Waks T, Laskov I, Michaan N, Raz Y, Bar V, Zundelevich A, Aharon S, Turovsky L, Mallel G, Salpeter S, Neev G, Hollander KS, Katz BZ, Grisaru D, Globerson Levin A. Comparing Intraperitoneal and Intravenous Personalized ErbB2CAR-T for the Treatment of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092216. [PMID: 36140319 PMCID: PMC9496506 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092216] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the most common type of epithelial ovarian cancer. The majority of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, when intraperitoneal (IP) spread has already occurred. Despite significant surgical and chemotherapeutic advances in HGSOC treatment over the past decades, survival rates with HGSOC have only modestly improved. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells enable T cells to directly bind to tumor-associated antigens in a major histocompatibility complex-independent manner, thereby inducing tumor rejection. While CAR-T cell therapy shows great promise in hematological malignancies, its use in solid tumors is limited. Therefore, innovative approaches are needed to increase the specificity of CAR-modified T cells against solid tumors. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal (IP) versus intravenous (IV) CAR-T cell therapy in the treatment of HGSOC. We constructed a CAR that targets the ErbB2/HER2 protein (ErbB2CAR), which is overexpressed in HGSOC, and evaluated the functionality of ErbB2CAR on ovarian cancer cell lines (OVCAR8, SKOV3, and NAR). Our findings show that an IP injection of ErbB2CAR-T cells to tumor-bearing mice led to disease remission and increased survival compared to the IV route. Moreover, we found that IP-injected ErbB2CART cells circulate to a lesser extent, making them safer for non-tumor tissues than IV-injected cells. Further supporting our findings, we show that the effect of ErbB2CAR-T cells on primary HGSOC tumors is correlated with ErbB2 expression. Together, these data demonstrate the advantages of an IP administration of CAR-T cells over IV administration, offering not only a safer strategy but also the potential for counteracting the effect of ErbB2CAR in HGSOC. Significance: IP-injected ErbB2CAR-T cells led to disease remission and increased survival compared to the IV route. These findings demonstrate the advantages of IP administration, offering a safe treatment strategy with the potential for counteracting the effect of ErbB2CAR in HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naamit Deshet-Unger
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Galit Horn
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Moran Rawet-Slobodkin
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Tova Waks
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Department of Immunology, The Weizmann Institute, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Ido Laskov
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Nadav Michaan
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Yael Raz
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Vered Bar
- cResponce Company, Rehovot 7670102, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Guy Neev
- cResponce Company, Rehovot 7670102, Israel
| | - Kenneth Samuel Hollander
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Ben-Zion Katz
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The Hematology Laboratory, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Anat Globerson Levin
- Immunology and Advanced CAR-T Therapy, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Dotan Center for Advanced Therapies, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-3-6972503
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13
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Current Status and Perspectives of Dual-Targeting Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133230. [PMID: 35805001 PMCID: PMC9265066 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells tremendously improve outcomes for patients with relapsed/refractory hematological malignancies and are considered a breakthrough therapy. However, over half of treated patients experience relapse or refractory disease, with antigen escape being one of the main contributing mechanisms. Dual-targeting CAR T-cell therapy is being developed to minimize the risk of relapse or refractory disease. Preclinical and clinical data on five categories of dual-targeting CAR T-cell therapies and approximately fifty studies were summarized to offer insights and support the development of dual-targeting CAR T-cell therapy for hematological malignancies. The clinical efficacy (durability and survival) is validated and the safety profiles of dual-targeting CAR T-cell therapy are acceptable, although there is still room for improvement in the bispecific CAR structure. It is one of the best approaches to optimize the bispecific CAR structure by boosting T-cell transduction efficiency and leveraging evidence from preclinical activity and clinical efficacy.
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14
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Choi T, Kang Y. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for multiple myeloma. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 232:108007. [PMID: 34582835 PMCID: PMC8930424 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although treatment outcomes of multiple myeloma patients have improved significantly during the last two decades, myeloma is still an incurable disease. There are newly emerging immunotherapies to treat multiple myeloma including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugate, bispecific antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. Impressive response rate and clinical efficacy in heavily pretreated myeloma patients led to the FDA approval of the first myeloma CAR-T therapy in March 2021. Among many different targets for myeloma CAR-T therapies, B Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA) has been the most successful target so far, but other targets which can be used either for single-target or dual-target CAR-T's are actively being explored. Clinical efficacy and safety of current myeloma CAR-T therapies will be presented here. Potential mechanisms leading to resistance include clearance of CAR-T cells, antigenic escape, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Novel strategies to enhance myeloma CAR-T will also be described. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the current data and the future directions of myeloma CAR-T therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taewoong Choi
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yubin Kang
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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15
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Roex G, Campillo-Davo D, Flumens D, Shaw PAG, Krekelbergh L, De Reu H, Berneman ZN, Lion E, Anguille S. Two for one: targeting BCMA and CD19 in B-cell malignancies with off-the-shelf dual-CAR NK-92 cells. J Transl Med 2022; 20:124. [PMID: 35287669 PMCID: PMC8919645 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03326-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has proven to be a valuable new treatment option for patients with B-cell malignancies. However, by applying selective pressure, outgrowth of antigen-negative tumor cells can occur, eventually resulting in relapse. Subsequent rescue by administration of CAR-T cells with different antigen-specificity indicates that those tumor cells are still sensitive to CAR-T treatment and points towards a multi-target strategy. Due to their natural tumor sensitivity and highly cytotoxic nature, natural killer (NK) cells are a compelling alternative to T cells, especially considering the availability of an off-the-shelf unlimited supply in the form of the clinically validated NK-92 cell line.
Methods
Given our goal to develop a flexible system whereby the CAR expression repertoire of the effector cells can be rapidly adapted to the changing antigen expression profile of the target cells, electrotransfection with CD19-/BCMA-CAR mRNA was chosen as CAR loading method in this study. We evaluated the functionality of mRNA-engineered dual-CAR NK-92 against tumor B-cell lines and primary patient samples. In order to test the clinical applicability of the proposed cell therapy product, the effect of irradiation on the proliferative rate and functionality of dual-CAR NK-92 cells was investigated.
Results
Co-electroporation of CD19 and BMCA CAR mRNA was highly efficient, resulting in 88.1% dual-CAR NK-92 cells. In terms of CD107a degranulation, and secretion of interferon (IFN)-γ and granzyme B, dual-CAR NK-92 significantly outperformed single-CAR NK-92. More importantly, the killing capacity of dual-CAR NK-92 exceeded 60% of single and dual antigen-expressing cell lines, as well as primary tumor cells, in a 4h co-culture assay at low effector to target ratios, matching that of single-CAR counterparts. Furthermore, our results confirm that dual-CAR NK-92 irradiated with 10 Gy cease to proliferate and are gradually cleared while maintaining their killing capacity.
Conclusions
Here, using the clinically validated NK-92 cell line as a therapeutic cell source, we established a readily accessible and flexible platform for the generation of highly functional dual-targeted CAR-NK cells.
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16
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Wei W, Zhang Y, Zhang D, Liu Q, An S, Chen Y, Huang G, Liu J. Annotating BCMA Expression in Multiple Myelomas. Mol Pharm 2021; 19:3492-3501. [PMID: 34843261 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00628] [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: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a promising theranostic target for multiple myeloma (MM). BCMA-targeted therapeutics, such as antibody-drug conjugates and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapies, are rapidly reshaping the treatment landscape of MM. Along with the progress, a critical challenge is to noninvasively visualize the dynamic change of BCMA for a better-personalized prescription of the above-mentioned therapeutics. We aim to develop immuno-positron emission tomography (immunoPET) imaging strategies to visualize BCMA expression and realize target-specific diagnosis of MM in the work. A series of BCMA-targeting nanobodies were produced and two of them were successfully labeled with gallium-68 (68Ga). MM models were established using MM.1S cell line and NOD-Prkdcem26Cd52Il2rgem26Cd22/Nju mice. The diagnostic efficacies of the developed probes (i.e., [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC2 and [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC3) were investigated in disseminated MM models by immunoPET imaging, region of interest analysis on PET images, biodistribution study, and histopathological staining study. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC2 and [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC3 were developed with radiochemical purities of >99%. ImmunoPET imaging with either [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC2 or [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC3 precisely visualized BCMA expression and delineated MM lesions throughout the bone marrows. Moreover, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-MMBC3 immunoPET successfully detected remnant MM after treatment with daratumumab, a prescription medicine used to treat MM. The immunoPET imaging data correlated well with the biodistribution and immunohistochemistry staining results. The work successfully developed two state-of-the-art BCMA-targeted radiotracers for annotating BCMA expression and diagnosing MM. Translational studies interpreting the diagnostic efficacies of the immunoPET radiotracers are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijun Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - You Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qiufang Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shuxian An
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yumei Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
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17
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Savanur MA, Weinstein-Marom H, Gross G. Implementing Logic Gates for Safer Immunotherapy of Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:780399. [PMID: 34804073 PMCID: PMC8600566 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.780399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting solid tumors with absolute precision is a long-standing challenge in cancer immunotherapy. The identification of antigens, which are expressed by a large fraction of tumors of a given type and, preferably, across various types, but not by normal cells, holds the key to developing safe, off-the-shelf immunotherapies. Although the quest for widely shared, strictly tumor-specific antigens has been the focus of tremendous effort, only few such candidates have been implicated. Almost all antigens that are currently explored as targets for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) or T cell receptor (TCR)-T cell therapy are also expressed by healthy cells and the risk of on-target off-tumor toxicity has remained a major concern. Recent studies suggest that this risk could be obviated by targeting instead combinations of two or more antigens, which are co-expressed by tumor but not normal cells and, as such, are tumor-specific. Moreover, the expression of a shared tumor antigen along with the lack of a second antigen that is expressed by normal tissues can also be exploited for precise recognition. Additional cues, antigenic or non-antigenic ones, which characterize the tumor microenvironment, could be harnessed to further increase precision. This review focuses on attempts to define the targetable signatures of tumors and assesses different strategies employing advanced synthetic biology for translating such information into safer modes of immunotherapy, implementing the principles of Boolean logic gates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Azharuddin Savanur
- Laboratory of Immunology, MIGAL - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Upper Galilee, Israel
| | - Hadas Weinstein-Marom
- Laboratory of Immunology, MIGAL - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Upper Galilee, Israel
| | - Gideon Gross
- Laboratory of Immunology, MIGAL - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Upper Galilee, Israel
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18
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New targets for CAR T therapy in hematologic malignancies. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2021; 34:101277. [PMID: 34625226 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2021.101277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
As we expand our acumen of the intricacies of hematological malignancies at a genetic and cellular level, we have paved the way in advancing novel targeted therapeutic avenues such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies (CAR T). Engineering cells to target a specific antigen has led to dramatic remission rates in cases of relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia as well as multiple myeloma thus far with trials in place to further advance targeted therapies in other hematological malignancies. Most currently available CAR T therapies target CD19 antigen. Studies are underway exploring novel CAR T products aimed at other tumor-specific antigens with potential to improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicities. Early studies have confirmed safety and efficacy of CD22 and BCMA targeted CAR T therapies. Moreover, various other targets including CD20, CD30, CD123, kappa, and lambda light chains among others are under clinical investigation as potential avenues of targeted therapy. This review highlights the shift in the treatment paradigm in pursuing diverse antigen targets while addressing the challenges in terms of the efficacy and toxicity of current CAR T-cell therapies.
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19
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Aharon A, Horn G, Bar-Lev TH, Zagagi Yohay E, Waks T, Levin M, Deshet Unger N, Avivi I, Globerson Levin A. Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T Cells: A Potential Therapy for Cancer. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:1224-1241. [PMID: 34494460 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are genetically engineered T cells, directed against a tumor-associated antigen. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from CAR-T cells (CAR-T EVs) may preserve CAR-T activity and overcome one of the major obstacles responsible for CAR-T cell failure in patients with solid tumors. This study aimed to compare CAR-T EVs with their parental cells and explore their cell penetration and cytotoxic activity. Anti-HER-2 CARs were stimulated with specific target cells. EVs were isolated from the cell media and characterized for their content and functions. We found that CAR-T EVs contained a mixture of small and large EVs. Stimulated anti-HER-2+ CAR-T EVs expressed lower cytokine levels compared with their parental CAR-T cells (such as interferon gamma). Higher levels of granzyme B were found in CAR-T EVs (≥20 × ) compared with EVs from unstimulated cells (p < 0.001). Anti-HER-2+ CAR-T EVs bound and penetrated specifically into HER-2 expressing target cells. Similar cytotoxic effects measured by caspase-3/7 activity were found in CAR-T cells and their derived EVs. However, while the CAR-T cells induced massive apoptosis during the first 24 h, CAR-T EVs required 60 - 90 h. In summary, CAR-T EVs provide a novel potent immunotherapy approach that may be effective against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Aharon
- Hematology Research Laboratory for Extracellular Vesicles, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galit Horn
- Immunology Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tali Hana Bar-Lev
- Hematology Research Laboratory for Extracellular Vesicles, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Einav Zagagi Yohay
- Hematology Research Laboratory for Extracellular Vesicles, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tova Waks
- Immunology Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Immunology Department, The Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Maya Levin
- Hematology Research Laboratory for Extracellular Vesicles, Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Naamit Deshet Unger
- Immunology Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Irit Avivi
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Hematology Division, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anat Globerson Levin
- Immunology Laboratory, Research & Development Department, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Dotan Center for Advanced Therapies, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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20
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Globerson Levin A, Rivière I, Eshhar Z, Sadelain M. CAR T cells: Building on the CD19 paradigm. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2151-2163. [PMID: 34196410 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202049064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Spearheaded by the therapeutic use of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeting CD19, synthetic immunology has entered the clinical arena. CARs are recombinant receptors for antigen that engage cell surface molecules through the variable region of an antibody and signal through arrayed T-cell activating and costimulatory domains. CARs allow redirection of T-cell cytotoxicity against any antigen of choice, independent of MHC expression. Patient T cells engineered to express CARs specific for CD19 have yielded remarkable outcomes in subjects with relapsed/refractory B- cell malignancies, setting off unprecedented interest in T-cell engineering and cell-based cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we present the challenges to extend the use of CAR T cells to solid tumors and other pathologies. We further highlight progress in CAR design, cell manufacturing, and genome editing, which in aggregate hold the promise of generating safer and more effective genetically instructed immunity. Novel engineered cell types, including innate T-cell types, natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived immune cells, are on the horizon, as are applications of CAR T cells to treat autoimmunity, severe infections, and senescence-associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabelle Rivière
- Center for Cell Engineering, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zelig Eshhar
- Immunology Lab, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michel Sadelain
- Center for Cell Engineering, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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21
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van de Donk NWCJ, Themeli M, Usmani SZ. Determinants of response and mechanisms of resistance of CAR T-cell therapy in multiple myeloma. Blood Cancer Discov 2021; 2:302-318. [PMID: 34386775 PMCID: PMC8357299 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-20-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BCMA-specific CAR T-cells have substantial therapeutic potential in multiple myeloma (MM), but most patients eventually relapse. Determinants of response and mechanisms of resistance are most likely multifactorial and include MM-related factors, premanufacturing T-cell characteristics, CAR T-cell-related features, and several components of the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Efforts to improve the potency and safety of CAR T-cell therapy include optimizing CAR design, combinatorial approaches to enhance persistence and activity, treatment of less heavily pretreated patients, and dual-antigen targeting to prevent antigen escape. We expect that these rationally designed strategies will contribute to further improvement in the clinical outcome of MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels W C J van de Donk
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Maria Themeli
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Saad Z Usmani
- Levine Cancer Institute, Carolinas Healthcare System, Charlotte, North Carolina
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22
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Rousso-Noori L, Mastandrea I, Talmor S, Waks T, Globerson Levin A, Haugas M, Teesalu T, Alvarez-Vallina L, Eshhar Z, Friedmann-Morvinski D. P32-specific CAR T cells with dual antitumor and antiangiogenic therapeutic potential in gliomas. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3615. [PMID: 34127674 PMCID: PMC8203650 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23817-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is considered one of the most aggressive malignancies in adult and pediatric patients. Despite decades of research no curative treatment is available and it thus remains associated with a very dismal prognosis. Although recent pre-clinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the feasibility of chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) T cell immunotherapeutic approach in glioblastoma, tumor heterogeneity and antigen loss remain among one of the most important challenges to be addressed. In this study, we identify p32/gC1qR/HABP/C1qBP to be specifically expressed on the surface of glioma cells, making it a suitable tumor associated antigen for redirected CAR T cell therapy. We generate p32 CAR T cells and find them to recognize and specifically eliminate p32 expressing glioma cells and tumor derived endothelial cells in vitro and to control tumor growth in orthotopic syngeneic and xenograft mouse models. Thus, p32 CAR T cells may serve as a therapeutic option for glioblastoma patients. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has been proposed as a promising approach for treating glioblastoma. Here the authors show that p32 is expressed in murine and human glioma and that p32-directed CAR-T cells promote anti-tumor responses in preclinical models by targeting glioma cells and tumor derived endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Rousso-Noori
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ignacio Mastandrea
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shauli Talmor
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tova Waks
- Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (TASMC), Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Maarja Haugas
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Centre of Excellence for Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tambet Teesalu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Centre of Excellence for Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Cancer Research Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - 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.,Immunotherapy and Cell Engineering Laboratory, Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Zelig Eshhar
- Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (TASMC), Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dinorah Friedmann-Morvinski
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel. .,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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van de Donk NWCJ, Usmani SZ, Yong K. CAR T-cell therapy for multiple myeloma: state of the art and prospects. LANCET HAEMATOLOGY 2021; 8:e446-e461. [PMID: 34048683 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(21)00057-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) are fusion proteins containing an antigen-recognition domain coupled to a T-cell activation domain (eg, CD3ζ [CD247]) and to a costimulatory domain (eg, CD28 or 4-1BB [TNFRSF9, also known as CD137]). The B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA; TNFRSF17) is an attractive target for CAR T-cell therapy because it is only expressed by normal and malignant plasma cells and by a subset of mature B cells. Several trials of anti-BCMA CAR T cells have shown high-quality responses, including minimal residual disease-negativity in patients with multiple myeloma who were heavily pretreated. Phase 3 trials are currently evaluating CAR T-cell therapy versus standard-of-care regimens in patients in earlier stages of the disease. Trials are also ongoing in newly diagnosed patients with high-risk cytogenetic profiles or with residual disease after transplantation. CAR T cells targeting other multiple myeloma antigens, such as CD19, CD38, CD138 (SYND1), and SLAMF7, are also being explored. Toxicities associated with CAR T cells include cytokine-release syndrome, different types of cytopenia, infections, and neurotoxicity. Although some subsets of patients have sustained responses for more than 1 year, most patients eventually relapse, which might be related to the loss of CAR T cells, loss of antigen expression on the tumour cell surface, or to an immunosuppressive microenvironment that impairs the activity of T cells. Efforts to improve the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy include optimising CAR design and adapting the manufacturing process to generate cell products enriched for specific subsets of T cells (eg, early memory cells). Other strategies explored in trials include dual-antigen targeting to prevent antigen escape and rational combination therapy to enhance persistence. Several approaches are also being developed to improve the safety of CAR T-cell therapy, such as the incorporation of a suicide gene safety system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels W C J van de Donk
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Saad Z Usmani
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Kwee Yong
- Department of Haematology, University College London, London, UK
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