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Gujar S, Pol JG, Kumar V, Lizarralde-Guerrero M, Konda P, Kroemer G, Bell JC. Tutorial: design, production and testing of oncolytic viruses for cancer immunotherapy. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:2540-2570. [PMID: 38769145 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00985-1] [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: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) represent a novel class of cancer immunotherapy agents that preferentially infect and kill cancer cells and promote protective antitumor immunity. Furthermore, OVs can be used in combination with established or upcoming immunotherapeutic agents, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors, to efficiently target a wide range of malignancies. The development of OV-based therapy involves three major steps before clinical evaluation: design, production and preclinical testing. OVs can be designed as natural or engineered strains and subsequently selected for their ability to kill a broad spectrum of cancer cells rather than normal, healthy cells. OV selection is further influenced by multiple factors, such as the availability of a specific viral platform, cancer cell permissivity, the need for genetic engineering to render the virus non-pathogenic and/or more effective and logistical considerations around the use of OVs within the laboratory or clinical setting. Selected OVs are then produced and tested for their anticancer potential by using syngeneic, xenograft or humanized preclinical models wherein immunocompromised and immunocompetent setups are used to elucidate their direct oncolytic ability as well as indirect immunotherapeutic potential in vivo. Finally, OVs demonstrating the desired anticancer potential progress toward translation in patients with cancer. This tutorial provides guidelines for the design, production and preclinical testing of OVs, emphasizing considerations specific to OV technology that determine their clinical utility as cancer immunotherapy agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Gujar
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jonathan G Pol
- INSERM, U1138, Paris, France
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMICCa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Vishnupriyan Kumar
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Manuela Lizarralde-Guerrero
- INSERM, U1138, Paris, France
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMICCa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Prathyusha Konda
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Guido Kroemer
- INSERM, U1138, Paris, France.
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMICCa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France.
- Institut du Cancer Paris CARPEM, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France.
| | - John C Bell
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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Toropko M, Chuvpilo S, Karabelsky A. miRNA-Mediated Mechanisms in the Generation of Effective and Safe Oncolytic Viruses. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:986. [PMID: 39204331 PMCID: PMC11360794 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16080986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by inhibiting the translation of target transcripts. The expression profiles of miRNAs vary in different tissues and change with the development of diseases, including cancer. This feature has begun to be used for the modification of oncolytic viruses (OVs) in order to increase their selectivity and efficacy. OVs represent a relatively new class of anticancer drugs; they are designed to replicate in cancer tumors and destroy them. These can be natural viruses that can replicate within cancer tumor cells, or recombinant viruses created in laboratories. There are some concerns regarding OVs' toxicity, due to their ability to partially replicate in healthy tissues. In addition, lytic and immunological responses upon OV therapy are not always sufficient, so various OV editing methods are used. This review discusses the latest results of preclinical and clinical studies of OVs, modifications of which are associated with the miRNA-mediated mechanism of gene silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariia Toropko
- Gene Therapy Department, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Avenue, 1, 354340 Sochi, Russia; (S.C.); (A.K.)
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Azar F, Deforges J, Demeusoit C, Kleinpeter P, Remy C, Silvestre N, Foloppe J, Fend L, Spring-Giusti C, Quéméneur E, Marchand JB. TG6050, an oncolytic vaccinia virus encoding interleukin-12 and anti-CTLA-4 antibody, favors tumor regression via profound immune remodeling of the tumor microenvironment. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009302. [PMID: 39060022 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TG6050 was designed as an improved oncolytic vector, combining the intrinsic properties of vaccinia virus to selectively replicate in tumors with the tumor-restricted expression of recombinant immune effectors to modify the tumor immune phenotype. These properties might be of particular interest for "cold" tumors, either poorly infiltrated or infiltrated with anergic T cells. METHODS TG6050, an oncolytic vaccinia virus encodes single-chain human interleukin-12 (hIL-12) and full-length anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (@CTLA-4) monoclonal antibody. The relevant properties of TG6050 (replication, cytopathy, transgenes expression and functionality) were extensively characterized in vitro. The biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of the viral vector, @CTLA-4 and IL-12, as well as antitumoral activities (alone or combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors) were investigated in several "hot" (highly infiltrated) and "cold" (poorly infiltrated) syngeneic murine tumor models. The mechanism of action was deciphered by monitoring both systemic and intratumoral immune responses, and by tumor transcriptome analysis. The safety of TG6050 after repeated intravenous administrations was evaluated in cynomolgus monkeys, with a focus on the level of circulating IL-12. RESULTS Multiplication and propagation of TG6050 in tumor cells in vitro and in vivo were associated with local expression of functional IL-12 and @CTLA-4. This dual mechanism translated into a strong antitumoral activity in both "cold" and "hot" tumor models (B16F10, LLC1 or EMT6, CT26, respectively) that was further amplified when combined with anti-programmed cell death protein-1. Analysis of changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) after treatment with TG6050 showed increases in interferon-gamma, of CD8+T cells, and of M1/M2 macrophages ratio, as well as a drastic decrease of regulatory T cells. These local modifications were observed alongside bolstering a systemic and specific antitumor adaptive immune response. In toxicology studies, TG6050 did not display any observable adverse effects in cynomolgus monkeys. CONCLUSIONS TG6050 effectively delivers functional IL-12 and @CTLA-4 into the tumor, resulting in strong antitumor activity. The shift towards an inflamed TME correlated with a boost in systemic antitumor T cells. The solid preclinical data and favorable benefit/risk ratio paved the way for the clinical evaluation of TG6050 in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NCT05788926 trial in progress).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Azar
- Transgene SA, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
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4
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Vitiello A, Reale A, Conciatori V, Vicco A, Garzino-Demo A, Palù G, Parolin C, von Einem J, Calistri A. Simultaneous Expression of Different Therapeutic Genes by Infection with Multiple Oncolytic HSV-1 Vectors. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1577. [PMID: 39062150 PMCID: PMC11274547 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are anti-cancer therapeutics combining the selective killing of cancer cells with the triggering of an anti-tumoral immune response. The latter effect can be improved by arming OVs with immunomodulatory factors. Due to the heterogeneity of cancer and the tumor microenvironment, it is anticipated that strategies based on the co-expression of multiple therapeutic molecules that interfere with different features of the target malignancy will be more effective than mono-therapies. Here, we show that (i) the simultaneous expression of different proteins in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells can be achieved through their infection with a combination of OVs based on herpes simplex virus type 1 (oHSV1), each encoding a single transgene. (ii) The level of expressed proteins is dependent on the number of infectious viral particles utilized to challenge tumor cells. (iii) All recombinant viruses exhibited comparable efficacy in the killing of TNBC cells in single and multiple infections and showed similar kinetics of replication. Overall, our results suggest that a strategy based on co-infection with a panel of oHSV1s may represent a promising combinatorial therapeutic approach for TNBC, as well as for other types of solid tumors, that merits further investigation in more advanced in vitro and in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Vitiello
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Alberto Reale
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Valeria Conciatori
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Anna Vicco
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Alfredo Garzino-Demo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Giorgio Palù
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristina Parolin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
| | - Jens von Einem
- Institute for Virology, University of Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Arianna Calistri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.V.); (A.R.); (V.C.); (A.V.); (A.G.-D.); (G.P.); (C.P.)
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Lindner G, Walter A, Magnus CL, Rosenhammer K, Holoborodko B, Koch V, Hirsch S, Grossmann L, Li S, Knipe DM, DeLuca N, Schuler-Thurner B, Gross S, Schwertner B, Toelge M, Rohrhofer A, Stöckl S, Bauer RJ, Knoll G, Ehrenschwender M, Haferkamp S, Schmidt B, Schuster P. Comparison of the oncolytic activity of a replication-competent and a replication-deficient herpes simplex virus 1. Immunology 2024; 172:279-294. [PMID: 38444199 PMCID: PMC11073915 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13775] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2015, the oncolytic herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) T-VEC (talimogene laherparepvec) was approved for intratumoral injection in non-resectable malignant melanoma. To determine whether viral replication is required for oncolytic activity, we compared replication-deficient HSV-1 d106S with replication-competent T-VEC. High infectious doses of HSV-1 d106S killed melanoma (n = 10), head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (n = 11), and chondrosarcoma cell lines (n = 2) significantly faster than T-VEC as measured by MTT metabolic activity, while low doses of T-VEC were more effective over time. HSV-1 d106S and, to a lesser extent T-VEC, triggered caspase-dependent early apoptosis as shown by pan-caspase inhibition and specific induction of caspases 3/7, 8, and 9. HSV-1 d106S induced a higher ratio of apoptosis-inducing infected cell protein (ICP) 0 to apoptosis-blocking ICP6 than T-VEC. T-VEC was oncolytic for an extended period of time as viral replication continued, which could be partially blocked by the antiviral drug aciclovir. High doses of T-VEC, but not HSV-1 d106S, increased interferon-β mRNA as part of the intrinsic immune response. When markers of immunogenic cell death were assessed, ATP was released more efficiently in the context of T-VEC than HSV-1 d106S infection, whereas HMGB1 was induced comparatively well. Overall, the early oncolytic effect on three different tumour entities was stronger with the non-replicative strain, while the replication-competent virus elicited a stronger innate immune response and more pronounced immunogenic cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Lindner
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Annika Walter
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Clara L. Magnus
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Rosenhammer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bohdan Holoborodko
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Victoria Koch
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Hirsch
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Luis Grossmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Suqi Li
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - David M. Knipe
- Department of Microbiology – Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Neal DeLuca
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Gross
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara Schwertner
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Toelge
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anette Rohrhofer
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Stöckl
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Experimental Orthopedics, Center of Medical Biotechnology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Richard J. Bauer
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center for Medical Biotechnology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gertrud Knoll
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martin Ehrenschwender
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Haferkamp
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Schmidt
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Schuster
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Zhang Z, Yang N, Lu H, Chen Y, Xu L, Wang Z, Lu Q, Zhong K, Zhu Z, Wang G, Li H, Zheng M, Zhang W, Yang H, Peng X, Zhou L, Tong A. Improved antitumor effects elicited by an oncolytic HSV-1 expressing a novel B7H3nb/CD3 BsAb. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216760. [PMID: 38428724 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216760] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses have emerged as a promising modality for cancer treatment due to their unique abilities to directly destroy tumor cells and modulate the tumor microenvironment. Bispecific T-cell engagers (BsAbs) have been developed to activate and redirect cytotoxic T lymphocytes, enhancing the antitumor response. To take advantage of the specific infection capacity and carrying ability of exogenous genes, we generated a recombinant herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-1dko-B7H3nb/CD3 or HSV-1dko-B7H3nb/mCD3, carrying a B7H3nb/CD3 or B7H3nb/mCD3 BsAb that replicates and expresses BsAb in tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. The new generation of oncolytic viruses has been genetically modified using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and the cre-loxp system to increase the efficiency of HSV genome editing. Additionally, we used two fully immunocompetent models (GL261 and MC38) to assess the antitumor effect of HSV-1dko-B7H3nb/mCD3. Compared with the HSV-1dko control virus, HSV-1dko-B7H3nb/mCD3 induced enhanced anti-tumor immune responses and T-cell infiltration in both GL261 and MC38 models, resulting in improved treatment efficacy in the latter. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis of the tumor microenvironment confirmed an increase in NK cells and effector CD8+ T cells, and a decrease in immunosuppressive cells, including FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and CD206+ macrophages (M2). Overall, our study identified a novel camel B7H3 nanobody and described the genetic modification of the HSV-1 genome using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and the cre-loxp system. Our findings indicate that expressing B7H3nb/CD3 BsAb could improve the antitumor effects of HSV-1 based oncolytic virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongliang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Nian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Huaqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Yongdong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Long Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Zeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Qizhong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Kunhong Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Zhixiong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, West China Medical School, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Hexian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Meijun Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Xingchen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China.
| | - Liangxue Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Fifth People's Hospital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Shizuishan, Ningxia, 753000, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, 621000, China.
| | - Aiping Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Research Unit of Gene and Immunotherapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan Province, 610041, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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7
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Constantin M, Chifiriuc MC, Mihaescu G, Corcionivoschi N, Burlibasa L, Bleotu C, Tudorache S, Mitache MM, Filip R, Munteanu SG, Gradisteanu Pircalabioru G. Microbiome and cancer: from mechanistic implications in disease progression and treatment to development of novel antitumoral strategies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1373504. [PMID: 38715617 PMCID: PMC11074409 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1373504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a very aggressive disease and one of mankind's most important health problems, causing numerous deaths each year. Its etiology is complex, including genetic, gender-related, infectious diseases, dysbiosis, immunological imbalances, lifestyle, including dietary factors, pollution etc. Cancer patients also become immunosuppressed, frequently as side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and prone to infections, which further promote the proliferation of tumor cells. In recent decades, the role and importance of the microbiota in cancer has become a hot spot in human biology research, bringing together oncology and human microbiology. In addition to their roles in the etiology of different cancers, microorganisms interact with tumor cells and may be involved in modulating their response to treatment and in the toxicity of anti-tumor therapies. In this review, we present an update on the roles of microbiota in cancer with a focus on interference with anticancer treatments and anticancer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Constantin
- Institute of Biology, Bucharest of Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
- Life, Environmental and Earth Sciences Division, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Life, Environmental and Earth Sciences Division, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Nicolae Corcionivoschi
- Bacteriology Branch, Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, Banat University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine-King Michael I of Romania, Timisoara, Romania
- Romanian Academy of Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Coralia Bleotu
- Life, Environmental and Earth Sciences Division, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorin Tudorache
- Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Roxana Filip
- Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Suceava Emergency County Hospital, Suceava, Romania
| | | | - Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru
- Life, Environmental and Earth Sciences Division, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy of Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- eBio-Hub Research Centre, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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8
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Alvero AB, Fox A, Madina BR, Krady MM, Gogoi R, Chehade H, Nakaar V, Almassian B, Yarovinsky TO, Rutherford T, Mor G. Immune Modulation of Innate and Adaptive Responses Restores Immune Surveillance and Establishes Antitumor Immunologic Memory. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:261-274. [PMID: 38078853 PMCID: PMC11027955 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0127] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Current immunotherapies have proven effective in strengthening antitumor immune responses, but constant opposing signals from tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment eventually lead to immune escape. We hypothesized that in situ release of antigens and regulation of both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system would provide a robust and long-term antitumor effect by creating immunologic memory against tumors. To achieve this, we developed CARG-2020, a genetically modified virus-like vesicle (VLV) that is a self-amplifying RNA with oncolytic capacity and encodes immune regulatory genes. CARG-2020 carries three immune modulators: (i) the pleiotropic antitumor cytokine IL12, in which the subunits (p35 and p40) are tethered together; (ii) the extracellular domain (ECD) of the protumor IL17RA, which serves as a dominant-negative antagonist; and (iii) a shRNA targeting PD-L1. Using a mouse model of ovarian cancer, we demonstrated the oncolytic effect and immune-modulatory capacities of CARG-2020. By enhancing IL12 and blocking IL17 and PD-L1, CARG-2020 successfully reactivated immune surveillance by promoting M1, instead of M2, macrophage differentiation, inhibiting MDSC expansion and establishing a potent CD8+ T cell-mediated antitumoral response. Furthermore, we demonstrated that this therapeutic approach provided tumor-specific and long-term protection against the establishment of new tumors. Our results provide a rationale for the further development of this platform as a therapeutic modality for ovarian cancer patients to enhance antitumor responses and prevent a recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha B. Alvero
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Alexandra Fox
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | | | | | - Radhika Gogoi
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Hussein Chehade
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | | | | | | | - Thomas Rutherford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
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9
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Wang Y, Cheng P. Arming oncolytic viruses with bispecific T cell engagers: The evolution and current status. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166962. [PMID: 37984801 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166962] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are emerging as therapeutically relevant anticancer agents as contemporary immunotherapy gains traction. Furthermore, OVs are an ideal platform for genetic modification to express therapeutic transgenes. Bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) can redirect T cells to tumor cells, resulting in targeted cytotoxicity. BiTEs have demonstrated success in hematological cancers but are rarely used in solid tumors. The drawbacks of BiTEs, including inadequate delivery and on-target-off-tumor activity have limited their efficacy. Combining OVs with BiTEs is a prospective area to investigate. This combined strategy can benefit from the best qualities of both therapies while overcoming the limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunmeng Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 17 People's South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Ping Cheng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 17 People's South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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10
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Khushalani NI, Harrington KJ, Melcher A, Bommareddy PK, Zamarin D. Breaking the barriers in cancer care: The next generation of herpes simplex virus-based oncolytic immunotherapies for cancer treatment. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2023; 31:100729. [PMID: 37841530 PMCID: PMC10570124 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2023.100729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the US Food and Drug Administration first approved talimogene laherparepvec for the treatment of melanoma in 2015, the field of oncolytic immunotherapy (OI) has rapidly evolved. There are numerous ongoing clinical studies assessing the clinical activity of OIs across a wide range of tumor types. Further understanding of the mechanisms underlying the anti-tumor immune response has led to the development of OIs with improved immune-mediated preclinical efficacy. In this review, we discuss the key approaches for developing the next generation of herpes simplex virus-based OIs. Modifications to the viral genome and incorporation of transgenes to promote safety, tumor-selective replication, and immune stimulation are reviewed. We also review the advantages and disadvantages of intratumoral versus intravenous administration, summarize clinical evidence supporting the use of OIs as a strategy to overcome resistance to immune checkpoint blockade, and consider emerging opportunities to improve OI efficacy in the combination setting.
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11
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Houel A, Foloppe J. [Oncolytic viruses: Actors and deliverers of therapeutic proteins against tumors]. Med Sci (Paris) 2023; 39:845-854. [PMID: 38018928 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2023161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the unique ability of certain viruses to specifically target cancer cells has led to significant advancements in cancer immunotherapy research. In addition to inducing specific lysis of cancer cells, oncolytic viruses (OV) have been genetically modified to express molecules of interest within the tumor bed. The use of OV as vectors for therapeutic molecules has allowed to enhance antitumor responses while limiting the adverse effects associated with systemic administration of the molecule. Other studies are currently focused on delaying the neutralization and clearance of the virus by the host's immune system and improving its delivery insight tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Houel
- UMRS 1 135 Sorbonne université, Paris, France - Inserm U1135, Paris, France - Équipe « Microenvironnement immunitaire et immunothérapie », centre d'immunologie et des maladies infectieuses (Cimi), faculté de médecine, Sorbonne université, Paris, France - Transgene, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
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12
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Alvero AB, Fox A, Madina B, Krady M, Gogoi R, Chehade H, Nakaar V, Almassian B, Yarovinsky T, Rutherford T, Mor G. Immune modulation of innate and adaptive responses restores immune surveillance and establishes anti-tumor immunological memory. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.27.559828. [PMID: 37808682 PMCID: PMC10557730 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.559828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Current immunotherapies have proven effective in strengthening anti-tumor immune responses but constant opposing signals from tumor cells and surrounding microenvironment eventually lead to immune escape. We hypothesize that in situ release of antigens and regulation of both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system will provide a robust and long-term anti-tumor effect by creating immunological memory against the tumor. To achieve this, we developed CARG-2020, a virus-like-vesicle (VLV). It is a genetically modified and self-amplifying RNA with oncolytic capacity and encodes immune regulatory genes. CARG-2020 carries three transgenes: 1 ) the pleiotropic antitumor cytokine IL-12 in which the subunits (p35 and p40) are tethered together; 2) the extracellular domain (ECD) of the pro- tumor IL-17RA, which can serve as a dominant negative antagonist; and 3) shRNA for PD-L1. Using a mouse model of ovarian cancer, we demonstrate the oncolytic effect and immune modulatory capacities of CARG-2020. By enhancing IL-12 and blocking IL-17 and PD-L1, CARG-2020 successfully reactivates immune surveillance by promoting M1 instead of M2 macrophage differentiation, inhibiting MDSC expansion, and establishing a potent CD8+ T cell mediated anti-tumoral response. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this therapeutic approach provides tumor-specific and long-term protection preventing the establishment of new tumors. Our results provide rationale for the further development of this platform as a therapeutic modality for ovarian cancer patients to enhance the anti-tumor response and to prevent recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha B. Alvero
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Alexandra Fox
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | | | | | - Radhika Gogoi
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Hussein Chehade
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | | | | | | | - Thomas Rutherford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
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13
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Diao L, Liu M. Rethinking Antigen Source: Cancer Vaccines Based on Whole Tumor Cell/tissue Lysate or Whole Tumor Cell. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300121. [PMID: 37254712 PMCID: PMC10401146 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapies have improved human health, and one among the important technologies for cancer immunotherapy is cancer vaccine. Antigens are the most important components in cancer vaccines. Generally, antigens in cancer vaccines can be divided into two categories: pre-defined antigens and unidentified antigens. Although, cancer vaccines loaded with predefined antigens are commonly used, cancer vaccine loaded with mixed unidentified antigens, especially whole cancer cells or cancer cell lysates, is a very promising approach, and such vaccine can obviate some limitations in cancer vaccines. Their advantages include, but are not limited to, the inclusion of pan-spectra (all or most kinds of) antigens, inducing pan-clones specific T cells, and overcoming the heterogeneity of cancer cells. In this review, the recent advances in cancer vaccines based on whole-tumor antigens, either based on whole cancer cells or whole cancer cell lysates, are summarized. In terms of whole cancer cell lysates, the focus is on applying whole water-soluble cell lysates as antigens. Recently, utilizing the whole cancer cell lysates as antigens in cancer vaccines has become feasible. Considering that pre-determined antigen-based cancer vaccines (mainly peptide-based or mRNA-based) have various limitations, developing cancer vaccines based on whole-tumor antigens is a promising alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Diao
- Department of PharmaceuticsCollege of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University199 of Ren ai RoadSuzhouJiangsu215123P. R. China
- Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineKunshanJiangsu215300P. R. China
- Suzhou Ersheng Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.Suzhou215123P. R. China
| | - Mi Liu
- Department of PharmaceuticsCollege of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University199 of Ren ai RoadSuzhouJiangsu215123P. R. China
- Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineKunshanJiangsu215300P. R. China
- Suzhou Ersheng Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.Suzhou215123P. R. China
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14
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Wan PKT, Fernandes RA, Seymour LW. Oncolytic viruses and antibodies: are they more successful when delivered separately or when engineered as a single agent? J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006518. [PMID: 37541690 PMCID: PMC10407364 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006518] [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] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) provide the promise of tumor-selective cytotoxicity coupled with amplification of the therapeutic agent (the virus) in situ within the tumor improving its therapeutic index. Despite this promise, however, single agent-treatments have not been as successful as combination therapies, particularly combining with checkpoint inhibitor antibodies. The antibodies may be delivered by two approaches, either encoded within the OV genome to restrict antibody production to sites of active virus infection or alternatively given alongside OVs as separate treatments. Both approaches have shown promising therapeutic outcomes, and this leads to an interesting question of whether one approach is potentially better than the other. In this review, we provide a brief summary of the combination OV-antibody therapies that target tumor cells, tumor microenvironment and immune cells to help define key parameters influencing which approach is superior, thereby improving insight into the rational design of OV treatment strategies.
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15
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Muthukutty P, Yoo SY. Oncolytic Virus Engineering and Utilizations: Cancer Immunotherapy Perspective. Viruses 2023; 15:1645. [PMID: 37631987 PMCID: PMC10459766 DOI: 10.3390/v15081645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses have positively impacted cancer immunotherapy over the past 20 years. Both natural and genetically modified viruses have shown promising results in treating various cancers. Various regulatory authorities worldwide have approved four commercial oncolytic viruses, and more are being developed to overcome this limitation and obtain better anti-tumor responses in clinical trials at various stages. Faster advancements in translating research into the commercialization of cancer immunotherapy and a comprehensive understanding of the modification strategies will widen the current knowledge of future technologies related to the development of oncolytic viruses. In this review, we discuss the strategies of virus engineering and the progress of clinical trials to achieve virotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - So Young Yoo
- BIO-IT Foundry Technology Institute, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
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16
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Silva-Pilipich N, Covo-Vergara Á, Vanrell L, Smerdou C. Checkpoint blockade meets gene therapy: Opportunities to improve response and reduce toxicity. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 379:43-86. [PMID: 37541727 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based on monoclonal antibodies represent a breakthrough for the treatment of cancer. However, their efficacy varies among tumor types and patients, and they can lead to adverse effects due to on-target/off-tumor activity, since they are administered systemically at high doses. An alternative and attractive approach for the delivery of ICIs is the use of gene therapy vectors able to express them in vivo. This review focuses on the most recent studies using viral vectors able to express ICIs locally or systemically in preclinical models of cancer. These vectors include non-replicating viruses, oncolytic viruses able to propagate specifically in tumor cells and destroy them, and self-amplifying RNA vectors, armed with different formats of antibodies against immune checkpoints. Non-replicating vectors usually lead to long-term ICI expression, potentially eliminating the need for repeated administration. Vectors with replication capacity, although they have a shorter window of expression, can induce inflammation which enhances the antitumor effect. Finally, these engineered vectors can be used in combination with other immunostimulatory molecules or with CAR-T cells, further boosting the antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Ángela Covo-Vergara
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lucía Vanrell
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad ORT Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay; Nanogrow Biotech, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain.
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17
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Zhu X, Fan C, Xiong Z, Chen M, Li Z, Tao T, Liu X. Development and application of oncolytic viruses as the nemesis of tumor cells. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1188526. [PMID: 37440883 PMCID: PMC10335770 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1188526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses and tumors are two pathologies that negatively impact human health, but what occurs when a virus encounters a tumor? A global consensus among cancer patients suggests that surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and other methods are the primary means to combat cancer. However, with the innovation and development of biomedical technology, tumor biotherapy (immunotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, gene therapy, oncolytic virus therapy, etc.) has emerged as an alternative treatment for malignant tumors. Oncolytic viruses possess numerous anti-tumor properties, such as directly lysing tumor cells, activating anti-tumor immune responses, and improving the tumor microenvironment. Compared to traditional immunotherapy, oncolytic virus therapy offers advantages including high killing efficiency, precise targeting, and minimal side effects. Although oncolytic virus (OV) therapy was introduced as a novel approach to tumor treatment in the 19th century, its efficacy was suboptimal, limiting its widespread application. However, since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first OV therapy drug, T-VEC, in 2015, interest in OV has grown significantly. In recent years, oncolytic virus therapy has shown increasingly promising application prospects and has become a major research focus in the field of cancer treatment. This article reviews the development, classification, and research progress of oncolytic viruses, as well as their mechanisms of action, therapeutic methods, and routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhu
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology—Manhattan Campus, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chenyang Fan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medicine and Technology, School of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhuolong Xiong
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingwei Chen
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Zesong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology for Urogenital Tumors, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Tumor, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital(Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Xiuqing Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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18
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Zolaly MA, Mahallawi W, Khawaji ZY, Alahmadi MA. The Clinical Advances of Oncolytic Viruses in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cureus 2023; 15:e40742. [PMID: 37485097 PMCID: PMC10361339 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising future for oncology treatment has been brought about by the emergence of a novel approach utilizing oncolytic viruses in cancer immunotherapy. Oncolytic viruses are viruses that have been exploited genetically to assault malignant cells and activate a robust immune response. Several techniques have been developed to endow viruses with an oncolytic activity through genetic engineering. For instance, redirection capsid modification, stimulation of anti-neoplastic immune response, and genetically arming viruses with cytokines such as IL-12. Oncolytic viral clinical outcomes are sought after, particularly in more advanced cancers. The effectiveness and safety profile of the oncolytic virus in clinical studies with or without the combination of standard treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or primary excision) has been assessed using response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST). This review will comprehensively outline the most recent clinical applications and provide the results from various phases of clinical trials in a variety of cancers in the latest published literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Zolaly
- Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Taibah University, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, SAU
| | - Waleed Mahallawi
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, SAU
| | - Zakaria Y Khawaji
- Medicine and Surgery, Taibah University, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, SAU
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19
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Monaco ML, Idris OA, Essani K. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Basic Biology and Immuno-Oncolytic Viruses. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082393. [PMID: 37190321 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer. TNBC diagnoses account for approximately one-fifth of all breast cancer cases globally. The lack of receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER-2, CD340) results in a lack of available molecular-based therapeutics. This increases the difficulty of treatment and leaves more traditional as well as toxic therapies as the only available standards of care in many cases. Recurrence is an additional serious problem, contributing substantially to its higher mortality rate as compared to other breast cancers. Tumor heterogeneity also poses a large obstacle to treatment approaches. No driver of tumor development has been identified for TNBC, and large variations in mutational burden between tumors have been described previously. Here, we describe the biology of six different subtypes of TNBC, based on differential gene expression. Subtype differences can have a large impact on metastatic potential and resistance to treatment. Emerging antibody-based therapeutics, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have available targets for small subsets of TNBC patients, leading to partial responses and relatively low overall efficacy. Immuno-oncolytic viruses (OVs) have recently become significant in the pursuit of effective treatments for TNBC. OVs generally share the ability to ignore the heterogeneous nature of TNBC cells and allow infection throughout a treated tumor. Recent genetic engineering has allowed for the enhancement of efficacy against certain tumor types while avoiding the most common side effects in non-cancerous tissues. In this review, TNBC is described in order to address the challenges it presents to potential treatments. The OVs currently described preclinically and in various stages of clinical trials are also summarized, as are their strategies to enhance therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Monaco
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Omer A Idris
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Karim Essani
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
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20
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Silva-Pilipich N, Covo-Vergara Á, Smerdou C. Local Delivery of Immunomodulatory Antibodies for Gastrointestinal Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082352. [PMID: 37190279 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy has experienced a breakthrough with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which are able to unleash immune responses against tumors refractory to other therapies. Despite the great advancement that ICIs represent, most patients with gastrointestinal tumors have not benefited from this therapy. In addition, ICIs often induce adverse effects that are related to their systemic use. Local administration of ICIs in tumors could concentrate their effect in the malignant tissue and provide a higher safety profile. A new and attractive approach for local delivery of ICIs is the use of gene therapy vectors to express these blocking antibodies in tumor cells. Several vectors have been evaluated in preclinical models of gastrointestinal tumors to express ICIs against PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4, among other immune checkpoints, with promising results. Vectors used in these settings include oncolytic viruses, self-replicating RNA vectors, and non-replicative viral and non-viral vectors. The use of viral vectors, especially when they have replication capacity, provides an additional adjuvant effect that has been shown to enhance antitumor responses. This review covers the most recent studies involving the use of gene therapy vectors to deliver ICIs to gastrointestinal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ángela Covo-Vergara
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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21
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Lin D, Shen Y, Liang T. Oncolytic virotherapy: basic principles, recent advances and future directions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:156. [PMID: 37041165 PMCID: PMC10090134 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01407-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have attracted growing awareness in the twenty-first century, as they are generally considered to have direct oncolysis and cancer immune effects. With the progress in genetic engineering technology, OVs have been adopted as versatile platforms for developing novel antitumor strategies, used alone or in combination with other therapies. Recent studies have yielded eye-catching results that delineate the promising clinical outcomes that OVs would bring about in the future. In this review, we summarized the basic principles of OVs in terms of their classifications, as well as the recent advances in OV-modification strategies based on their characteristics, biofunctions, and cancer hallmarks. Candidate OVs are expected to be designed as "qualified soldiers" first by improving target fidelity and safety, and then equipped with "cold weapons" for a proper cytocidal effect, "hot weapons" capable of activating cancer immunotherapy, or "auxiliary weapons" by harnessing tactics such as anti-angiogenesis, reversed metabolic reprogramming and decomposing extracellular matrix around tumors. Combinations with other cancer therapeutic agents have also been elaborated to show encouraging antitumor effects. Robust results from clinical trials using OV as a treatment congruously suggested its significance in future application directions and challenges in developing OVs as novel weapons for tactical decisions in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinan Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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22
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Bryant JD, Lee JS, De Almeida A, Jacques J, Chang CH, Fassler W, Quéva C, Lerner L, Kennedy EM. Seneca Valley virus replicons are packaged in trans and have the capacity to overcome the limitations of viral transgene expression. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2023; 28:321-333. [PMID: 36938543 PMCID: PMC10018389 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) promote the anti-tumor immune response as their replication, and the subsequent lysis of tumor cells, triggers the activation of immune-sensing pathways. Arming OVs by expressing transgenes with the potential to promote immune cell recruitment and activation is an attractive strategy to enhance OVs' therapeutic benefit. For picornaviruses, a family of OVs with clinical experience, the expression of a transgene is limited by multiple factors: genome physical packaging limits, high rates of recombination, and viral-mediated inhibition of transgene secretion. Here, we evaluated strategies for arming Seneca Valley virus (SVV) with relevant immunomodulatory transgenes. Specificially in the contex of arming SVV, we evaluated transgene maximum size and stabiltity, transgene secretion, and the impact of transgene inclusion on viral fitness. We find that SVV is not capable of expressing secreted payloads and has a transgene packaging capacity of ∼10% of viral genome size. To enable transgene expression, we developed SVV replicons with greater transgene size capacity and secretion capabilities. SVV replicons can be packaged in trans by virus in co-infected cells to express immunomodulatory transgenes in surrounding cells, thus providing a means to enhance the potential of this therapeutic to augment the anti-tumor immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Edward M. Kennedy
- Oncorus, Inc., Andover, MA 01810, USA
- Corresponding author: Edward M. Kennedy, Oncorus, Inc., 4 Corporate Dr., Andover, MA 01810, USA.
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23
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prior to the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the potential use of mRNA vaccines for a rapid pandemic response had been well described in the scientific literature, however during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak we witnessed the large-scale deployment of the platform in a real pandemic setting. Of the three RNA platforms evaluated in clinical trials, including 1) conventional, non-amplifying mRNA (mRNA), 2) base-modified, non-amplifying mRNA (bmRNA), which incorporate chemically modified nucleotides, and 3) self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), the bmRNA technology emerged with superior clinical efficacy. AREAS COVERED This review describes the current state of these mRNA vaccine technologies, evaluates their strengths and limitations, and argues that saRNA may have significant advantages if the limitations of stability and complexities of manufacturing can be overcome. EXPERT OPINION The success of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines has been remarkable. However, several challenges remain to be addressed before this technology can successfully be applied broadly to other disease targets. Innovation in the areas of mRNA engineering, novel delivery systems, antigen design, and high-quality manufacturing will be required to achieve the full potential of this disruptive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoltan Kis
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey B Ulmer
- Immorna Biotherapeutics, Morrisville, North Carolina.,TechImmune LLC, Newport Beach, CA, USA
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24
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Guo M, Deng L, Liang H, Du Y, Gao W, Tian N, Bi Y, Li J, Ma T, Zhang Y, Wang H. Development and Preliminary Application of a Droplet Digital PCR Assay for Quantifying the Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 in the Clinical-Grade Production. Viruses 2023; 15:178. [PMID: 36680218 PMCID: PMC9867280 DOI: 10.3390/v15010178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) is a type of virus that selectively targets and kills cancer cells, leaving normal cells unharmed. Accurate viral titer is of great importance for the production and application of oHSV products. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) is known for having good reproducibility, not requiring a standard curve, not being affected by inhibitors, and being precise even in the detection of low copies. In the present study, we developed a droplet digital PCR assay for the quantification of HSV-1 and applied it in the oHSV production. The established ddPCR showed good specificity, linearity, a low limit of quantification, great reproducibility, and accuracy. The quantification result was well-associated with that of plaque assay and CCID50. Amplification of the purified virus without DNA extraction by ddPCR presented similar results to that from the extracted DNA, confirming the good resistance against PCR inhibitors. With the ddPCR, viral titer could be monitored in real time during the production of oHSV; the optimal harvest time was determined for the best virus yield in each batch. The ddPCR can be used as a useful tool for the quantification of oHSV and greatly facilitate the manufacturing process of oHSV products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Guo
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Li Deng
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Hongyang Liang
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Yuyao Du
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Wenrui Gao
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Na Tian
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Ying Bi
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Jinghua Li
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Tiancong Ma
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
| | - Yuntao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
- China National Biotec Group Company Limited, 100024 Beijing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Beijing Institute of Biological Products Company Limited, 100176 Beijing, China
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25
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Dong H, Li M, Yang C, Wei W, He X, Cheng G, Wang S. Combination therapy with oncolytic viruses and immune checkpoint inhibitors in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas: an approach of complementary advantages. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:1. [PMID: 36604694 PMCID: PMC9814316 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02846-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common head and neck malignancies. Significant progress has been made in standard therapeutic methods combining surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Nevertheless, the 5-year survival rate remains at 40-50%. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a new strategy for treating head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). Still, the overall response and effective rates are poor, as HNSCCs are 'cold' tumors with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), limiting ICI's beneficial effects. In this case, transforming the tumor suppression microenvironment before using ICIs could be helpful. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) can transform cold tumors into hot tumors, improving the situation. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), oncolytic immunotherapy authorized for advanced melanoma, also showed good safety and antitumor activity in treating head and neck cancer and pancreatic cancer. In combination with pembrolizumab, T-Vec may have more anticancer efficacy than either drug alone. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underpinning OVs and their potential synergism with ICIs could benefit patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Mengli Li
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Chen Yang
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Wei Wei
- grid.506977.a0000 0004 1757 7957Postgraduate Training Base of Jinzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianglei He
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Pathology, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Gang Cheng
- grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030 China ,grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Department of Stomatology, Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cancer Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Shibing Wang
- grid.417401.70000 0004 1798 6507Cancer Center, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
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26
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Galambus J, Tsai KY. Molecular and immune targets in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:38-51. [PMID: 36000298 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer and often confers a good prognosis. Though surgery is the gold standard of treatment, unresectable or metastatic disease can necessitate systemic therapy. Of systemic agents, there is increasing interest in the use of immunotherapies and targeted therapy. Further study into the driver mutations in cSCC has identified opportunities for targeted therapy. In this review, we discuss both current and investigational immune and molecular targets of therapy for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Galambus
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Kenneth Y Tsai
- Department of Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Donald A. Adam Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center of Excellence, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
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27
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Li SJ, Sun ZJ. Fueling immune checkpoint blockade with oncolytic viruses: Current paradigms and challenges ahead. Cancer Lett 2022; 550:215937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Wang Z, Guo K, Liu Y, Huang C, Wu M. Dynamic impact of virome on colitis and colorectal cancer: Immunity, inflammation, prevention and treatment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:943-954. [PMID: 34656791 PMCID: PMC9008076 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The gut microbiome includes a series of microorganism genomes, such as bacteriome, virome, mycobiome, etc. The gut microbiota is critically involved in intestine immunity and diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Clarifying the relationship between microbiota and inflammation may profoundly improve our understanding of etiology, disease progression, patient management, and the development of prevention and treatment. In this review, we discuss the latest studies of the influence of enteric viruses (i.e., commensal viruses, pathogenic viruses, and bacteriophages) in the initiation, progression, and complication of colitis and colorectal cancer, and their potential for novel preventative approaches and therapeutic application. We explore the interplay between gut viruses and host immune systems for its effects on the severity of inflammatory diseases and cancer, including both direct and indirect interactions between enteric viruses with other microbes and microbial products. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms of the virome's roles in gut inflammatory response have been explained to infer potential therapeutic targets with examples in specific clinical trials. Given that very limited literature has thus far discussed these various topics with the gut virome, we believe these extensive analyses may provide insight into the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of IBD and CRC, which could help add the design of improved therapies for these important human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA
| | - Kai Guo
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Yingying Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA
| | - Canhua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA.
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29
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Kennedy EM, Denslow A, Hewett J, Kong L, De Almeida A, Bryant JD, Lee JS, Jacques J, Feau S, Hayes M, McMichael EL, Wambua D, Farkaly T, Rahmeh AA, Herschelman L, Douglas D, Spinale J, Adhikari S, Deterling J, Scott M, Haines BB, Finer MH, Ashburn TT, Quéva C, Lerner L. Development of intravenously administered synthetic RNA virus immunotherapy for the treatment of cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5907. [PMID: 36207308 PMCID: PMC9546900 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33599-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic effectiveness of oncolytic viruses (OVs) delivered intravenously is limited by the development of neutralizing antibody responses against the virus. To circumvent this limitation and to enable repeated systemic administration of OVs, here we develop Synthetic RNA viruses consisting of a viral RNA genome (vRNA) formulated within lipid nanoparticles. For two Synthetic RNA virus drug candidates, Seneca Valley virus (SVV) and Coxsackievirus A21, we demonstrate vRNA delivery and replication, virus assembly, spread and lysis of tumor cells leading to potent anti-tumor efficacy, even in the presence of OV neutralizing antibodies in the bloodstream. Synthetic-SVV replication in tumors promotes immune cell infiltration, remodeling of the tumor microenvironment, and enhances the activity of anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor. In mouse and non-human primates, Synthetic-SVV is well tolerated reaching exposure well above the requirement for anti-tumor activity. Altogether, the Synthetic RNA virus platform provides an approach that enables repeat intravenous administration of viral immunotherapy.
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30
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Bahreyni A, Liu H, Mohamud Y, Xue YC, Zhang J, Luo H. A new miRNA-Modified coxsackievirus B3 inhibits triple negative breast cancer growth with improved safety profile in immunocompetent mice. Cancer Lett 2022; 548:215849. [PMID: 35995138 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) displays great oncolytic activity against various cancer cells. Previously, we demonstrated that adding targeting sequences (TS) of miR-145/143, which are downregulated in cancer compared with normal cells, into CVB3 genome drastically attenuates tissue toxicity, while retaining its oncolytic activity towards lung tumor. Here we extended to assess miR-modified CVB3 in breast cancer therapy. We generated a new miRNA-CVB3 by inserting TS of muscle-specific miR-1 and pancreas-selective miR-216 into the above miR-145/143-modified CVB3. We found that this newly established CVB3 (termed miR-CVB3-1.1) is safe without triggering noticeable pathogenesis when applied to immunocompetent mice. In vitro studies revealed that miR-CVB3-1.1 can infect and lyse a wide range of breast cancer cells. Animal experiments using a syngeneic breast cancer mouse model showed that intratumoral inoculation of miR-CVB3-1.1 significantly suppresses tumor growth and metastasis, associated with productive viral growth and enhanced immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, we observed substantially reduced toxicity and prolonged survival in mice treated with miR-CVB3-1.1 compared with wild-type CVB3. Together, our results support miR-CVB3-1.1 as a promising candidate, which can be further evaluated for clinical treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Bahreyni
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Huitao Liu
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Yasir Mohamud
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Yuan Chao Xue
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Jingchun Zhang
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Honglin Luo
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
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31
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Ren Y, Miao JM, Wang YY, Fan Z, Kong XB, Yang L, Cheng G. Oncolytic viruses combined with immune checkpoint therapy for colorectal cancer is a promising treatment option. Front Immunol 2022; 13:961796. [PMID: 35911673 PMCID: PMC9334725 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.961796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is one of the promising strategies in the treatment of oncology. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, as a type of immunotherapy, have no significant efficacy in the clinical treatment of patients with pMMR/MSS/MSI-L mCRC alone. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find combination therapies that can improve the response rate of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Oncolytic viruses are a new class of cancer drugs that, in addition to directly lysing tumor cells, can facilitate the action of immune checkpoint inhibitors by modulating the tumor microenvironment and transforming “cold” tumors into “hot” ones. The combination of oncolytic viruses and immune checkpoint inhibitors is currently being used in several primary and clinical studies to treat tumors with exciting results. The combination of genetically modified “armed” OV with ICIs is expected to be one of the treatment options for pMMR/MSS/MSI-L mCRC. In this paper, we will analyze the current status of oncolytic viruses and ICIs available for the treatment of CRC. The feasibility of OV in combination with ICI for CRC will be discussed in terms of the mechanism of action of OV in treating tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ren
- College of Traditional Chinese medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia-Meng Miao
- College of Traditional Chinese medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Wang
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zheng Fan
- Department of Critical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Suzhou University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xian-Bin Kong
- College of Traditional Chinese medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Xian-Bin Kong, ; Long Yang, long ; Gong Cheng,
| | - Long Yang
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Xian-Bin Kong, ; Long Yang, long ; Gong Cheng,
| | - Gong Cheng
- Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Xian-Bin Kong, ; Long Yang, long ; Gong Cheng,
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32
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The In Vitro Replication, Spread, and Oncolytic Potential of Finnish Circulating Strains of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061290. [PMID: 35746761 PMCID: PMC9230972 DOI: 10.3390/v14061290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the only FDA- and EMA- approved oncolytic virus, and accordingly, many potential oncolytic HSVs (oHSV) are in clinical development. The utilized oHSV parental strains are, however, mostly based on laboratory reference strains, which may possess a compromised cytolytic capacity in contrast to circulating strains of HSV-1. Here, we assess the phenotype of thirty-six circulating HSV-1 strains from Finland to uncover their potential as oHSV backbones. First, we determined their capacity for cell-to-cell versus extracellular spread, to find strains with replication profiles favorable for each application. Second, to unfold the differences, we studied the genetic diversity of two relevant viral glycoproteins (gB/UL27, gI/US7). Third, we examined the oncolytic potential of the strains in cells representing glioma, lymphoma, and colorectal adenocarcinoma. Our results suggest that the phenotype of a circulating isolate, including the oncolytic potential, is highly related to the host cell type. Nevertheless, we identified isolates with increased oncolytic potential in comparison with the reference viruses across many or all of the studied cancer cell types. Our research emphasizes the need for careful selection of the backbone virus in early vector design, and it highlights the potential of clinical isolates as backbones in oHSV development.
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33
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Brown M. Engaging Pattern Recognition Receptors in Solid Tumors to Generate Systemic Antitumor Immunity. Cancer Treat Res 2022; 183:91-129. [PMID: 35551657 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-96376-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Malignant tumors frequently exploit innate immunity to evade immune surveillance. The priming, function, and polarization of antitumor immunity fundamentally depends upon context provided by the innate immune system, particularly antigen presenting cells. Such context is determined in large part by sensing of pathogen specific and damage associated features by pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs). PRR activation induces the delivery of T cell priming cues (e.g. chemokines, co-stimulatory ligands, and cytokines) from antigen presenting cells, playing a decisive role in the cancer immunity cycle. Indeed, endogenous PRR activation within the tumor microenvironment (TME) has been shown to generate spontaneous antitumor T cell immunity, e.g., cGAS-STING mediated activation of antigen presenting cells after release of DNA from dying tumor cells. Thus, instigating intratumor PRR activation, particularly with the goal of generating Th1-promoting inflammation that stokes endogenous priming of antitumor CD8+ T cells, is a growing area of clinical investigation. This approach is analogous to in situ vaccination, ultimately providing a personalized antitumor response against relevant tumor associated antigens. Here I discuss clinical stage intratumor modalities that function via activation of PRRs. These approaches are being tested in various solid tumor contexts including melanoma, colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Their mechanism (s) of action relative to other immunotherapy approaches (e.g., antigen-defined cancer vaccines, CAR T cells, dendritic cell vaccines, and immune checkpoint blockade), as well as their potential to complement these approaches are also discussed. Examples to be reviewed include TLR agonists, STING agonists, RIG-I agonists, and attenuated or engineered viruses and bacterium. I also review common key requirements for effective in situ immune activation, discuss differences between various strategies inclusive of mechanisms that may ultimately limit or preclude antitumor efficacy, and provide a summary of relevant clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brown
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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34
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Reale A, Calistri A, Altomonte J. Giving Oncolytic Viruses a Free Ride: Carrier Cells for Oncolytic Virotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122192. [PMID: 34959474 PMCID: PMC8709025 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are an emerging class of therapeutics which combine multiple mechanisms of action, including direct cancer cell-killing, immunotherapy and gene therapy. A growing number of clinical trials have indicated that OVs have an excellent safety profile and provide some degree of efficacy, but to date only a single OV drug, HSV-1 talimogene laherparepvec (T-Vec), has achieved marketing approval in the US and Europe. An important issue to consider in order to accelerate the clinical advancement of OV agents is the development of an effective delivery system. Currently, the most commonly employed OV delivery route is intratumoral; however, to target metastatic diseases and tumors that cannot be directly accessed, it is of great interest to develop effective approaches for the systemic delivery of OVs, such as the use of carrier cells. In general, the ideal carrier cell should have a tropism towards the tumor microenvironment (TME), and it must be susceptible to OV infection but remain viable long enough to allow migration and finally release of the OV within the tumor bed. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been heavily investigated as carrier cells due to their inherent tumor tropism, in spite of some disadvantages in biodistribution. This review focuses on the other promising candidate carrier cells under development and discusses their interaction with specific OVs and future research lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Reale
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Arianna Calistri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (A.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Jennifer Altomonte
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Biegert GWG, Rosewell Shaw A, Suzuki M. Current development in adenoviral vectors for cancer immunotherapy. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2021; 23:571-581. [PMID: 34938857 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenoviruses are well characterized and thus easily modified to generate oncolytic vectors that directly lyse tumor cells and can be "armed" with transgenes to promote lysis, antigen presentation, and immunostimulation. Oncolytic adenoviruses (OAds) are safe, versatile, and potent immunostimulants in patients. Since transgene expression is restricted to the tumor, adenoviral transgenes overcome the toxicities and short half-life of systemically administered cytokines, immune checkpoint blockade molecules, and bispecific T cell engagers. While OAds expressing immunostimulatory molecules ("armed" OAds) have demonstrated anti-tumor potential in preclinical solid tumor models, the efficacy has not translated into significant clinical outcomes as a monotherapy. However, OAds synergize with established standards of care and novel immunotherapeutic agents, providing a multifaceted means to address complexities associated with solid tumors. Critically, armed OAds revitalize endogenous and adoptively transferred immune cells while simultaneously enhancing their anti-tumor function. To properly evaluate these novel vectors and reduce the gap in the cycle between bench-to-bedside and back, improving model systems must be a priority. The future of OAds will involve a multidimensional approach that provides immunostimulatory molecules, immune checkpoint blockade, and/or immune engagers in concert with endogenous and exogenous immune cells to initiate durable and comprehensive anti-tumor responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greyson Willis Grossman Biegert
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amanda Rosewell Shaw
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Masataka Suzuki
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Rahman MM, McFadden G. Oncolytic Viruses: Newest Frontier for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5452. [PMID: 34771615 PMCID: PMC8582515 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite many signs of progress, currently available cancer treatments often do not provide desired outcomes for too many cancers. Therefore, newer and more effective therapeutic approaches are needed. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have emerged as a novel cancer treatment modality, which selectively targets and kills cancer cells while sparing normal ones. In the past several decades, many different OV candidates have been developed and tested in both laboratory settings as well as in cancer patient clinical trials. Many approaches have been taken to overcome the limitations of OVs, including engineering OVs to selectively activate anti-tumor immune responses. However, newer approaches like the combination of OVs with current immunotherapies to convert "immune-cold" tumors to "immune-hot" will almost certainly improve the potency of OVs. Here, we discuss strategies that are explored to further improve oncolytic virotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masmudur M. Rahman
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
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37
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Biological Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer-Update and New Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111694. [PMID: 34769123 PMCID: PMC8583892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological therapies have changed the face of oncology by targeting cancerous cells while reducing the effect on normal tissue. This publication focuses mainly on new therapies that have contributed to the advances in treatment of certain malignancies. Immunotherapy, which has repeatedly proven to be a breakthrough therapy in melanoma, as well as B-ALL therapy with CAR T cells, are of great merit in this progress. These therapies are currently being developed by modifying bispecific antibodies and CAR T cells to improve their efficiency and bioavailability. Work on improving the therapy with oncolytic viruses is also progressing, and efforts are being made to improve the immunogenicity and stability of cancer vaccines. Combining various biological therapies, immunotherapy with oncolytic viruses or cancer vaccines is gaining importance in cancer therapy. New therapeutic targets are intensively sought among neoantigens, which are not immunocompromised, or antigens associated with tumor stroma cells. An example is fibroblast activation protein α (FAPα), the overexpression of which is observed in the case of tumor progression. Universal therapeutic targets are also sought, such as the neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) gene fusion, a key genetic driver present in many types of cancer. This review also raises the problem of the tumor microenvironment. Stromal cells can protect tumor cells from chemotherapy and contribute to relapse and progression. This publication also addresses the problem of cancer stem cells resistance to treatment and presents attempts to avoid this phenomenon. This review focuses on the most important strategies used to improve the selectivity of biological therapies.
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Humeau J, Le Naour J, Galluzzi L, Kroemer G, Pol JG. Trial watch: intratumoral immunotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1984677. [PMID: 34676147 PMCID: PMC8526014 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1984677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
While chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain the first-line approaches for the management of most unresectable tumors, immunotherapy has emerged in the past two decades as a game-changing treatment, notably with the clinical success of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Immunotherapies aim at (re)activating anticancer immune responses which occur in two main steps: (1) the activation and expansion of tumor-specific T cells following cross-presentation of tumor antigens by specialized myeloid cells (priming phase); and (2) the immunological clearance of malignant cells by these antitumor T lymphocytes (effector phase). Therapeutic vaccines, adjuvants, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, immunogenic cell death-inducing agents including oncolytic viruses, anthracycline-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as adoptive cell transfer, all act at different levels of this cascade to (re)instate cancer immunosurveillance. Intratumoral delivery of these immunotherapeutics is being tested in clinical trials to promote superior antitumor immune activity in the context of limited systemic toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Humeau
- Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, INSERM U1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Julie Le Naour
- Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, INSERM U1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, INSERM U1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Suzhou Institute for Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Jonathan G. Pol
- Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, INSERM U1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
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Jahan N, Ghouse SM, Martuza RL, Rabkin SD. In Situ Cancer Vaccination and Immunovirotherapy Using Oncolytic HSV. Viruses 2021; 13:v13091740. [PMID: 34578321 PMCID: PMC8473045 DOI: 10.3390/v13091740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be genetically altered to acquire oncolytic properties so that oncolytic HSV (oHSV) preferentially replicates in and kills cancer cells, while sparing normal cells, and inducing anti-tumor immune responses. Over the last three decades, a better understanding of HSV genes and functions, and improved genetic-engineering techniques led to the development of oHSV as a novel immunovirotherapy. The concept of in situ cancer vaccination (ISCV) was first introduced when oHSV was found to induce a specific systemic anti-tumor immune response with an abscopal effect on non-injected tumors, in the process of directly killing tumor cells. Thus, the use of oHSV for tumor vaccination in situ is antigen-agnostic. The research and development of oHSVs have moved rapidly, with the field of oncolytic viruses invigorated by the FDA/EMA approval of oHSV talimogene laherparepvec in 2015 for the treatment of advanced melanoma. Immunovirotherapy can be enhanced by arming oHSV with immunomodulatory transgenes and/or using them in combination with other chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic agents. This review offers an overview of the development of oHSV as an agent for ISCV against solid tumors, describing the multitude of different oHSVs and their efficacy in immunocompetent mouse models and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Jahan
- Molecular Neurosurgery Laboratory and Brain Tumor Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (N.J.); (S.M.G.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Shanawaz M. Ghouse
- Molecular Neurosurgery Laboratory and Brain Tumor Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (N.J.); (S.M.G.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Robert L. Martuza
- Molecular Neurosurgery Laboratory and Brain Tumor Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (N.J.); (S.M.G.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Samuel D. Rabkin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge St., CPZN-3800, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Correspondence:
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Immunomodulatory Arming Factors-The Current Paradigm for Oncolytic Vectors Relies on Immune Stimulating Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169051. [PMID: 34445759 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169051] [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] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The dogma of engineering oncolytic viral vectors has shifted from emphasizing the viral lysis of individual cancer cells to the recruitment and coordination of the adaptive immune system to clear the tumor. To accomplish this, researchers have been adding several classes of transgenes to their preferred viral platforms. The most prevalent of these include antibodies and targeting moieties, interleukins and cytokines, and genes which rely on small molecule co-administration for tumor killing. Most current vectors rely exclusively on one of these types of transgenes to elicit the desired immune response to clear tumors, but are not mutually exclusive, with several larger OVs armed with several of these factors. The common theme of emerging armed vectors is to simply initiate or enhance infiltration of effector CD8+ T cells to clear the tumor locally at OV infection sites, and systemically throughout the body where the OV has not infected tumor cells. The precision of oncolytic vectors to target a cell type or tissue remains its key advantage over small-molecule drugs. Unlike chemo- and other drug therapies, viral vectors can be made to specifically infect and grow within tumor cells. This ensures localized expression of the therapeutic transgene to the diseased tissue, thereby limiting systemic toxicity. This review will examine the immunomodulating transgenes of current OVs, describe their general effect on the immune system, and provide the rationale for each vector's use in clearing its targeted tumor.
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Cheng G, Dong H, Yang C, Liu Y, Wu Y, Zhu L, Tong X, Wang S. A review on the advances and challenges of immunotherapy for head and neck cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:406. [PMID: 34332576 PMCID: PMC8325213 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02024-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC), which includes lip and oral cavity, larynx, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx malignancies, is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Due to the interaction of tumor cells with immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, immunotherapy of HNCs, along with traditional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, has attracted much attention. Four main immunotherapy strategies in HNCs have been developed, including oncolytic viruses, monoclonal antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells), and therapeutic vaccines. Oncorine (H101), an approved oncolytic adenovirus in China, is the pioneer of immunotherapy for the treatment of HNCs. Pembrolizumab and nivolumab are mAbs against PD-L1 that have been approved for recurrent and metastatic HNC patients. To date, several clinical trials using immunotherapy agents and their combination are under investigation. In this review, we summarize current the interaction of tumor cells with immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of HNCs, the main strategies that have been applied for immunotherapy of HNCs, obstacles that hinder the success of immunotherapies in patients with HNCs, as well as solutions for overcoming the challenges to enhance the response of HNCs to immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Cheng
- Department of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China.,Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Stomatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China.,Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Ultrasonography, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Ultrasonography, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Phase I Clinical Research Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Lifen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Molecular Diagnosis Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangmin Tong
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Molecular Diagnosis Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shibing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. .,Molecular Diagnosis Laboratory, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
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Wedekind MF, Miller KE, Chen CY, Wang PY, Hutzen BJ, Currier MA, Nartker B, Roberts RD, Boon L, Conner J, LaHaye S, Kelly BJ, Gordon D, White P, Mardis ER, Cripe TP. Endogenous retrovirus envelope as a tumor-associated immunotherapeutic target in murine osteosarcoma. iScience 2021; 24:102759. [PMID: 34278266 PMCID: PMC8267546 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma remains one of the deadliest cancers in pediatrics and young adults. We administered two types of immunotherapies, oncolytic virotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition, to two murine osteosarcoma models and observed divergent results. Mice bearing F420 showed no response, whereas those with K7M2 showed prolonged survival in response to combination therapy. K7M2 had higher expression of immune-related genes and higher baseline immune cell infiltrates, but there were no significant differences in tumor mutational burden or predicted MHC class I binding of nonsynonymous mutations. Instead, we found several mouse endogenous retrovirus sequences highly expressed in K7M2 compared with F420. T cell tetramer staining for one of them, gp70, was detected in mice with K7M2 but not F420, suggesting that endogenous retrovirus proteins are targets for the anti-tumor immune reaction. Given prior observations of endogenous retrovirus expression in human osteosarcomas, our findings may be translatable to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Frances Wedekind
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Katherine E. Miller
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chun-Yu Chen
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Pin-Yi Wang
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Brian J. Hutzen
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mark A. Currier
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Brooke Nartker
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Ryan D. Roberts
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Louis Boon
- Polpharma Biologics, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Stephanie LaHaye
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Benjamin J. Kelly
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - David Gordon
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peter White
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Elaine R. Mardis
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy P. Cripe
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Oncolytic HSV: Underpinnings of Tumor Susceptibility. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071408. [PMID: 34372614 PMCID: PMC8310378 DOI: 10.3390/v13071408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) is a therapeutic modality that has seen substantial success for the treatment of cancer, though much remains to be improved. Commonly attenuated through the deletion or alteration of the γ134.5 neurovirulence gene, the basis for the success of oHSV relies in part on the malignant silencing of cellular pathways critical for limiting these viruses in healthy host tissue. However, only recently have the molecular mechanisms underlying the success of these treatments begun to emerge. Further clarification of these mechanisms can strengthen rational design approaches to develop the next generation of oHSV. Herein, we review our current understanding of the molecular basis for tumor susceptibility to γ134.5-attenuated oHSV, with particular focus on the malignant suppression of nucleic acid sensing, along with strategies meant to improve the clinical efficacy of these therapeutic viruses.
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Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus-Based Therapies for Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061541. [PMID: 34207386 PMCID: PMC8235327 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
With the increased worldwide burden of cancer, including aggressive and resistant cancers, oncolytic virotherapy has emerged as a viable therapeutic option. Oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) can be genetically engineered to target cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This leads to the direct killing of cancer cells and the activation of the host immunity to recognize and attack the tumor. Different variants of oHSV have been developed to optimize its antitumor effects. In this review, we discuss the development of oHSV, its antitumor mechanism of action and the clinical trials that have employed oHSV variants to treat different types of tumor.
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