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Mazziotta F, Biavati L, Rimando J, Rutella S, Borcherding N, Parbhoo S, Mukhopadhyay R, Chowdhury S, Knaus HA, Valent P, Hackl H, Borrello IM, Blazar BR, Hatzi K, Gojo I, Luznik L. CD8+ T-cell differentiation and dysfunction inform treatment response in acute myeloid leukemia. Blood 2024; 144:1168-1182. [PMID: 38776511 PMCID: PMC11419782 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023021680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The interplay between T-cell states of differentiation, dysfunction, and treatment response in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains unclear. Here, we leveraged a multimodal approach encompassing high-dimensional flow cytometry and single-cell transcriptomics and found that early memory CD8+ T cells are associated with therapy response and exhibit a bifurcation into 2 distinct terminal end states. One state is enriched for markers of activation, whereas the other expresses natural killer (NK)-like and senescence markers. The skewed clonal differentiation trajectory toward CD8+ senescence was also a hallmark indicative of therapy resistance. We validated these findings by generating an AML CD8+ single-cell atlas integrating our data and other independent data sets. Finally, our analysis revealed that an imbalance between CD8+ early memory and senescent-like cells is linked to AML treatment refractoriness and poor survival. Our study provides crucial insights into the dynamics of CD8+ T-cell differentiation and advances our understanding of CD8+ T-cell dysfunction in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Mazziotta
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Luca Biavati
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Joseph Rimando
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sergio Rutella
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Borcherding
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Sonali Parbhoo
- School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rupkatha Mukhopadhyay
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sayan Chowdhury
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hanna A. Knaus
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Valent
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hubert Hackl
- Division of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ivan M. Borrello
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Bruce R. Blazar
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Masonic Cancer Center and Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | - Ivana Gojo
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Leo Luznik
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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2
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Li Z, Jin P, Xiang R, Li X, Shen J, He M, Liu X, Zhu H, Wu S, Dong F, Zhao H, Liu H, Jin Z, Li J. A CD8 + T cell related immune score predicts survival and refines the risk assessment in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1408109. [PMID: 39346926 PMCID: PMC11428106 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1408109] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Although advancements in genomic and epigenetic research have deepened our understanding of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), only one-third of patients can achieve durable remission. Growing evidence suggests that the immune microenvironment in bone marrow influences prognosis and survival in AML. There is a specific association between CD8+ T cells and the prognosis of AML patients. To develop a CD8+ T cell-related immune risk score for AML, we first evaluated the accuracy of CIBERSORTx in predicting the abundance of CD8+ T cells in bulk RNA-seq and found it significantly correlated with observed single-cell RNA sequencing data and the proportions of CD8+ T cells derived from flow cytometry. Next, we constructed the CTCG15, a 15-gene prognostic signature, using univariate and LASSO regression on the differentially expressed genes between CD8+ THigh and CD8+ TLow groups. The CTCG15 was further validated across six datasets in different platforms. The CTCG15 has been shown to be independent of established prognostic markers, and can distill transcriptomic consequences of several genetic abnormalities closely related to prognosis in AML patients. Finally, integrating this model into the 2022 European LeukemiaNet contributed to a higher predictive power for prognosis prediction. Collectively, our study demonstrates that CD8+ T cell-related signature could improve the comprehensive risk stratification and prognosis prediction in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyi Li
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Jin
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rufang Xiang
- Department of General Practice, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyang Li
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengke He
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaxin Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongming Zhu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shishuang Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangyi Dong
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huijin Zhao
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Jin
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junmin Li
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Wuxi Branch of Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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3
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Koedijk JB, van der Werf I, Penter L, Vermeulen MA, Barneh F, Perzolli A, Meesters-Ensing JI, Metselaar DS, Margaritis T, Fiocco M, de Groot-Kruseman HA, Moeniralam R, Bang Christensen K, Porter B, Pfaff K, Garcia JS, Rodig SJ, Wu CJ, Hasle H, Nierkens S, Belderbos ME, Zwaan CM, Heidenreich O. A multidimensional analysis reveals distinct immune phenotypes and the composition of immune aggregates in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia. Leukemia 2024:10.1038/s41375-024-02381-w. [PMID: 39187578 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Because of the low mutational burden and consequently, fewer potential neoantigens, children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are thought to have a T cell-depleted or 'cold' tumor microenvironment and may have a low likelihood of response to T cell-directed immunotherapies. Understanding the composition, phenotype, and spatial organization of T cells and other microenvironmental populations in the pediatric AML bone marrow (BM) is essential for informing future immunotherapeutic trials about targetable immune-evasion mechanisms specific to pediatric AML. Here, we conducted a multidimensional analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment in pediatric AML and non-leukemic controls. We demonstrated that nearly one-third of pediatric AML cases has an immune-infiltrated BM, which is characterized by a decreased ratio of M2- to M1-like macrophages. Furthermore, we detected the presence of large T cell networks, both with and without colocalizing B cells, in the BM and dissected the cellular composition of T- and B cell-rich aggregates using spatial transcriptomics. These analyses revealed that these aggregates are hotspots of CD8+ T cells, memory B cells, plasma cells and/or plasmablasts, and M1-like macrophages. Collectively, our study provides a multidimensional characterization of the BM immune microenvironment in pediatric AML and indicates starting points for further investigations into immunomodulatory mechanisms in this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost B Koedijk
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge van der Werf
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, 3521 AL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Sanford Stem Cell Institute, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Livius Penter
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Cancer Immunology, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Berlin, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Digital Clinician Scientist Program, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marijn A Vermeulen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Farnaz Barneh
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alicia Perzolli
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Dennis S Metselaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thanasis Margaritis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Fiocco
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rubina Moeniralam
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Billie Porter
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathleen Pfaff
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline S Garcia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott J Rodig
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine J Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Henrik Hasle
- Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Stefan Nierkens
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam E Belderbos
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C Michel Zwaan
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olaf Heidenreich
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
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4
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Khattab S, El Sorady M, El-Ghandour A, Visani G, Piccaluga PP. Hematopoietic and leukemic stem cells homeostasis: the role of bone marrow niche. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2024; 5:1027-1055. [PMID: 39351440 PMCID: PMC11438561 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2024.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) has highly specialized anatomical characteristics that provide a sanctuary place for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that allow appropriate proliferation, maintenance, and self-renewal capacity. Several cell types contribute to the constitution and function of the bone marrow niche. Interestingly, uncovering the secrets of BMM and its interaction with HSCs in health paved the road for research aiming at better understanding the concept of leukemic stem cells (LSCs) and their altered niche. In fact, they share many signals that are responsible for interactions between LSCs and the bone marrow niche, due to several biological similarities between LSCs and HSCs. On the other hand, LSCs differ from HSCs in their abnormal activation of important signaling pathways that regulate survival, proliferation, drug resistance, invasion, and spread. Targeting these altered niches can help in better treatment choices for hematological malignancies and bone marrow disorders in general and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in particular. Moreover, targeting those niches may help in decreasing the emergence of drug resistance and lower the relapse rate. In this article, the authors reviewed the most recent literature on bone marrow niches and their relations with either normal HSCs and AML cells/LSC, by focusing on pathogenetic and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa Khattab
- Biobank of Research, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria di Bologna Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Bologna University School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Medical Research Institute, Hematology department, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Manal El Sorady
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 5310002, Egypt
| | - Ashraf El-Ghandour
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 5310002, Egypt
| | - Giuseppe Visani
- Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Marche Nord, 61121 Pesaro, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Piccaluga
- Biobank of Research, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria di Bologna Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Bologna University School of Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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5
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Olejarz W, Sadowski K, Szulczyk D, Basak G. Advancements in Personalized CAR-T Therapy: Comprehensive Overview of Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7743. [PMID: 39062986 PMCID: PMC11276786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147743] [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: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is a novel anticancer therapy using autologous or allogeneic T-cells. To date, six CAR-T therapies for specific B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), and multiple myeloma (MM) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Significant barriers to the effectiveness of CAR-T therapy include cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurotoxicity in the case of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation (Allo-SCT) graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), antigen escape, modest antitumor activity, restricted trafficking, limited persistence, the immunosuppressive microenvironment, and senescence and exhaustion of CAR-Ts. Furthermore, cancer drug resistance remains a major problem in clinical practice. CAR-T therapy, in combination with checkpoint blockades and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) or other drugs, appears to be an appealing anticancer strategy. Many of these agents have shown impressive results, combining efficacy with tolerability. Biomarkers like extracellular vesicles (EVs), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), circulating tumor (ctDNA) and miRNAs may play an important role in toxicity, relapse assessment, and efficacy prediction, and can be implicated in clinical applications of CAR-T therapy and in establishing safe and efficacious personalized medicine. However, further research is required to fully comprehend the particular side effects of immunomodulation, to ascertain the best order and combination of this medication with conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapies, and to find reliable predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Olejarz
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karol Sadowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Hematology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Daniel Szulczyk
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, The Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Basak
- Department of Hematology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
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6
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Restelli C, Ruella M, Paruzzo L, Tarella C, Pelicci PG, Colombo E. Recent Advances in Immune-Based Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Blood Cancer Discov 2024; 5:234-248. [PMID: 38904305 PMCID: PMC11215380 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-23-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains unconquered by current therapies. Evidence of immune evasion during AML progression, such as HLA loss and T-cell exhaustion, suggests that antileukemic immune responses contribute to disease control and could be harnessed by immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss a spectrum of AML immunotherapy targets, encompassing cancer cell-intrinsic and surface antigens as well as targeting in the leukemic milieu, and how they can be tailored for personalized approaches. These targets are overviewed across major immunotherapy modalities applied to AML: immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, therapeutic vaccines, bispecific/trispecific antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T and CAR-NK cells. Significance: Immune therapies in AML treatment show evolving promise. Ongoing research aims to customize approaches for varied patient profiles and clinical scenarios. This review covers immune surveillance mechanisms, therapy options like checkpoint inhibitors, antibodies, CAR-T/NK cells, and vaccines, as well as resistance mechanisms and microenvironment considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Restelli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Ruella
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies and Cellular Therapy and Transplant, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PA, USA.
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PA, USA.
| | - Luca Paruzzo
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies and Cellular Therapy and Transplant, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PA, USA.
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PA, USA.
| | - Corrado Tarella
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| | - Pier Giuseppe Pelicci
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Oncology and Haemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Colombo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Oncology and Haemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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7
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Vadakekolathu J, Rutella S. Escape from T-cell-targeting immunotherapies in acute myeloid leukemia. Blood 2024; 143:2689-2700. [PMID: 37467496 PMCID: PMC11251208 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023019961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Single-cell and spatial multimodal technologies have propelled discoveries of the solid tumor microenvironment (TME) molecular features and their correlation with clinical response and resistance to immunotherapy. Computational tools are incessantly being developed to characterize tumor-infiltrating immune cells and to model tumor immune escape. These advances have led to substantial research into T-cell hypofunctional states in the TME and their reinvigoration with T-cell-targeting approaches, including checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). Until recently, we lacked a high-dimensional picture of the acute myeloid leukemia (AML) TME, including compositional and functional differences in immune cells between disease onset and postchemotherapy or posttransplantation relapse, and the dynamic interplay between immune cells and AML blasts at various maturation stages. AML subgroups with heightened interferon gamma (IFN-γ) signaling were shown to derive clinical benefit from CD123×CD3-bispecific dual-affinity retargeting molecules and CPIs, while being less likely to respond to standard-of-care cytotoxic chemotherapy. In this review, we first highlight recent progress into deciphering immune effector states in AML (including T-cell exhaustion and senescence), oncogenic signaling mechanisms that could reduce the susceptibility of AML cells to T-cell-mediated killing, and the dichotomous roles of type I and II IFN in antitumor immunity. In the second part, we discuss how this knowledge could be translated into opportunities to manipulate the AML TME with the aim to overcome resistance to CPIs and other T-cell immunotherapies, building on recent success stories in the solid tumor field, and we provide an outlook for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayakumar Vadakekolathu
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sergio Rutella
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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8
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Gao C, Li X, Xu Y, Zhang T, Zhu H, Yao D. Recent advances in CAR-T cell therapy for acute myeloid leukaemia. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18369. [PMID: 38712978 PMCID: PMC11075639 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a fatal and refractory haematologic cancer that primarily affects adults. It interferes with bone marrow cell proliferation. Patients have a 5 years survival rate of less than 30% despite the availability of several treatments, including chemotherapy, allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HSCT), and receptor antagonist drugs. Allo-HSCT is the mainstay of acute myeloid leukaemia treatment. Although it does work, there are severe side effects, such as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies have made significant progress in the treatment of cancer. These engineered T cells can locate and recognize tumour cells in vivo and release a large number of effectors through immune action to effectively kill tumour cells. CAR-T cells are among the most effective cancer treatments because of this property. CAR-T cells have demonstrated positive therapeutic results in the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia, according to numerous clinical investigations. This review highlights recent progress in new targets for AML immunotherapy, and the limitations, and difficulties of CAR-T therapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Gao
- College of Life Science and HealthWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xin Li
- College of BiotechnologyTianjin University of Science and TechnologyTianjinChina
| | - Yao Xu
- College of Life Science and HealthWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Tongcun Zhang
- College of Life Science and HealthWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Biology and MedicineWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Haichuan Zhu
- College of Life Science and HealthWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Di Yao
- College of Life Science and HealthWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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9
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Santoro N, Salutari P, Di Ianni M, Marra A. Precision Medicine Approaches in Acute Myeloid Leukemia with Adverse Genetics. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4259. [PMID: 38673842 PMCID: PMC11050344 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with adverse genetics remains unsatisfactory, with very low response rates to standard chemotherapy and shorter durations of remission commonly observed in these patients. The complex biology of AML with adverse genetics is continuously evolving. Herein, we discuss recent advances in the field focusing on the contribution of molecular drivers of leukemia biogenesis and evolution and on the alterations of the immune system that can be exploited with immune-based therapeutic strategies. We focus on the biological rationales for combining targeted therapy and immunotherapy, which are currently being investigated in ongoing trials, and could hopefully ameliorate the poor outcomes of patients affected by AML with adverse genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Santoro
- Hematology Unit, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ospedale Civile “Santo Spirito”, 65122 Pescara, Italy; (P.S.); (M.D.I.)
| | - Prassede Salutari
- Hematology Unit, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ospedale Civile “Santo Spirito”, 65122 Pescara, Italy; (P.S.); (M.D.I.)
| | - Mauro Di Ianni
- Hematology Unit, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ospedale Civile “Santo Spirito”, 65122 Pescara, Italy; (P.S.); (M.D.I.)
- Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, “G.D’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Andrea Marra
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 00196 Rome, Italy
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10
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Root JL, Desai PN, Ly C, Wang B, Jelloul FZ, Zhou J, Mackay S, Alfayez M, Matthews J, Pierce S, Reville PK, Daver N, Abbas HA. Single-Cell CD4 and CD8 T-Cell Secretome Profiling Reveals Temporal and Niche Differences in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Following Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapy. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:671-681. [PMID: 38391202 PMCID: PMC10916538 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous malignancy of the blood primarily treated with intensive chemotherapy. The allogeneic T-cell antileukemic activity via donor lymphocyte infusions and stem cell transplantation suggests a potential role for checkpoint blockade therapy in AML. While clinical trials employing these treatments have fallen short of expected results, a deeper exploration into the functional states of T cells in AML could bridge this knowledge gap. In this study, we analyzed the polyfunctional activity of T cells in a cohort of patients with relapsed/refractory (RelRef) AML treated on the clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02397720) of combination therapy using azacitidine and nivolumab (Aza/Nivo). We utilized the single-cell polyfunctional multiplexed immune assay IsoPlexis to evaluate the CD4 and CD8 T cells in peripheral blood and bone marrow samples collected before and after immunotherapy. This revealed at a pseudobulk level that the CD4 T cells exhibited higher functional activity post-immunotherapy (post-IO), suggesting that CD4-directed therapies may play a role in RelRef AML. Additional single-cell analysis revealed significant differences in baseline polyfunctionality in bone marrows of responders as compared with nonresponders for both CD4 and CD8 T cells. Overall, this study highlights the impact of polyfunctional assessment in understanding CD4 and CD8 dynamics in contexts of therapy in AML. SIGNIFICANCE We found T-cell polyfunctionality differs between local and systemic microenvironments. Enhanced variability in proteomic profiles of bone marrow CD4 T cells post-IO suggests their pivotal role in AML treatment response. Single-cell analysis identified novel CD4 and CD8 T-cell functional groups linked to immunotherapy response within the bone marrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Root
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Poonam N. Desai
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Christopher Ly
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Bofei Wang
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Fatima Zahra Jelloul
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jing Zhou
- IsoPlexis Corporation, Branford, Connecticut
| | - Sean Mackay
- IsoPlexis Corporation, Branford, Connecticut
| | - Mansour Alfayez
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jairo Matthews
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sherry Pierce
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Patrick K. Reville
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Hussein A. Abbas
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
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11
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Stafylidis C, Vlachopoulou D, Kontandreopoulou CN, Diamantopoulos PΤ. Unmet Horizons: Assessing the Challenges in the Treatment of TP53-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1082. [PMID: 38398394 PMCID: PMC10889132 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041082] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a challenging hematologic malignancy. The presence of TP53 mutations in AML poses a therapeutic challenge, considering that standard treatments face significant setbacks in achieving meaningful responses. There is a pressing need for the development of innovative treatment modalities to overcome resistance to conventional treatments attributable to the unique biology of TP53-mutated (TP53mut) AML. This review underscores the role of TP53 mutations in AML, examines the current landscape of treatment options, and highlights novel therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapies, combination regimens, and emerging immunotherapies, as well as agents being explored in preclinical studies according to their potential to address the unique hurdles posed by TP53mut AML.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Panagiotis Τ. Diamantopoulos
- Hematology Unit, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.S.); (D.V.); (C.-N.K.)
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12
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Huang T, Leung B, Huang Y, Price L, Gui J, Lau BW. A murine model to evaluate immunotherapy effectiveness for human Fanconi anemia-mutated acute myeloid leukemia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292375. [PMID: 38289944 PMCID: PMC10826936 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Fanconi anemia (FA)-mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a secondary AML with very poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options due to increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents. PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitors upregulate T-cell killing of cancer cells and is a class of promising treatment for FA-AML. Here, we developed a novel FA-AML murine model that allows the study of human AML with a humanized immune system in order to investigate immunotherapeutic treatments in vivo. FA-AML1 cells and non-FA-mutated Kasumi-1 cells were injected into 8-10 week old NSG mice. Once leukemic engraftment was confirmed by HLA-DR expression in the peripheral blood, human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) were injected into the mice. One week post-hPBMCs injection, Nivolumab (PD-1 inhibitor) or PBS vehicle control was administered to the mice bi-weekly. In our Nivolumab treated mice, FA-AML1, but not Kasumi-1-engrafted mice, had significantly prolonged overall survival. Both FA-AML1 and Kasumi-1 engrafted mice had decreased spleen weights. Higher leukemic infiltration into vital organs was observed in FA-AML1 engrafted mice compared to Kasumi-1 engrafted mice. In conclusion, our novel humanized murine model of FA-mutated AML is an attractive tool for supporting further studies and clinical trials using PD-1 inhibitors to treat FA-mutated AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Huang
- Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Bernice Leung
- Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Yuyang Huang
- Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Laura Price
- Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Jiang Gui
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Bonnie W. Lau
- Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
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13
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Pophali P, Varela JC, Rosenblatt J. Immune checkpoint blockade in hematological malignancies: current state and future potential. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1323914. [PMID: 38322418 PMCID: PMC10844552 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1323914] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant cells are known to evade immune surveillance by engaging immune checkpoints which are negative regulators of the immune system. By restoring the T-lymphocyte mediated anti-tumor effect, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the treatment of solid tumors but have met rather modest success in hematological malignancies. Currently, the only FDA approved indications for ICI therapy are in classic hodgkin lymphoma and primary mediastinal B cell lymphoma. Multiple clinical trials have assessed ICI therapy alone and in combination with standard of care treatments in other lymphomas, plasma cell neoplasms and myeloid neoplasms but were noted to have limited efficacy. These trials mostly focused on PD-1/PDL-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors. Recently, there has been an effort to target other T-lymphocyte checkpoints like LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT along with improving strategies of PD-1/PDL-1 and CTLA-4 inhibition. Drugs targeting the macrophage checkpoint, CD47, are also being tested. Long term safety and efficacy data from these ongoing studies are eagerly awaited. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the mechanism of immune checkpoint inhibitors, the key takeaways from the reported results of completed and ongoing studies of these therapies in the context of hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Pophali
- Division of Hematology and Hematological Malignancies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Juan Carlos Varela
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Orlando Health Regional Medical Center, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Jacalyn Rosenblatt
- Division of Hematology and Hematological Malignancies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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14
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Bołkun Ł, Starosz A, Krętowska-Grunwald A, Wasiluk T, Walewska A, Wierzbowska A, Moniuszko M, Grubczak K. Effects of Combinatory In Vitro Treatment with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Cytarabine on the Anti-Cancer Immune Microenvironment in De Novo AML Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:462. [PMID: 38275902 PMCID: PMC10814928 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020462] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) still constitutes a significant problem for patients suffering from its relapses. A comprehensive knowledge of the disease's molecular background has led to the development of targeted therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, and demonstrated beneficial effects on several types of cancer. Here, we aimed to assess in vitro the potential of the immune checkpoint blockage for supporting anti-cancer responses to the AML backbone therapy with cytarabine. PBMCs of AML patients were collected at admission and, following the therapy, eight complete remission (CR) and eight non-responders (NR) subjects were selected. We assessed the effects of the in vitro treatment of the cells with cytarabine and the immune checkpoint inhibitors: anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1. The study protocol allowed us to evaluate the viability of the cancer and the immune cells, proliferation status, phenotype, and cytokine release. Anti-PD-L1 antibodies were found to exert the most beneficial effect on the activation of T cells, with a concomitant regulation of the immune balance through Treg induction. There was no direct influence on the blast cells; however, the modulation of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis supported the expansion of lymphocytes. Changes in the response between CR and NR patients might result from the differential expression of PD-1 and PD-L1, with lower levels in the latter group. The tested blockers appear to support the anti-cancer immune responses rather than directly improve the effects of cytarabine. In conclusion, checkpoint proteins' modulators might improve the anti-cancer responses in the tumour environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Bołkun
- Department of Haematology, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24A, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Starosz
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 13, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.K.-G.); (A.W.); (M.M.)
| | - Anna Krętowska-Grunwald
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 13, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.K.-G.); (A.W.); (M.M.)
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 17, 15-274 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Tomasz Wasiluk
- Regional Centre for Transfusion Medicine, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 23, 15-950 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Alicja Walewska
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 13, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.K.-G.); (A.W.); (M.M.)
| | - Agnieszka Wierzbowska
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, Pabianicka 62, 93-513 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Marcin Moniuszko
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 13, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.K.-G.); (A.W.); (M.M.)
- Department of Allergology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24A, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Kamil Grubczak
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation, Medical University of Bialystok, J. Waszyngtona 13, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.K.-G.); (A.W.); (M.M.)
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15
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Ciurej A, Lewis E, Gupte A, Al-Antary E. Checkpoint Immunotherapy in Pediatric Oncology: Will We Say Checkmate Soon? Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1843. [PMID: 38140246 PMCID: PMC10748105 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121843] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a relatively new class of immunotherapy which bolsters the host immune system by "turning off the brakes" of effector cells (e.g., CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1). Although their success in treating adult malignancy is well documented, their utility in pediatric cancer has not yet been shown to be as fruitful. We review ICIs, their use in pediatric malignancies, and active pediatric clinical trials, exemplifying some of adult efforts that could be related to pediatric future trials and complications of ICI therapy. Through our review, we propose the consideration of ICI as standard therapy in lymphoma and various solid tumor types, especially in relapsed or refractory (R/R) disease. However, further studies are needed to demonstrate ICI effectiveness in pediatric leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Ciurej
- Pediatric Department, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (A.C.)
| | - Elizabeth Lewis
- School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Avanti Gupte
- Pediatric Department, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (A.C.)
- Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mt Clemons, MI 48859, USA
| | - Eman Al-Antary
- Pediatric Department, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (A.C.)
- Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mt Clemons, MI 48859, USA
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16
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Subklewe M. Novel immunotherapies in the treatment of AML: is there hope? HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2023; 2023:691-701. [PMID: 38066884 PMCID: PMC10727092 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2023000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The success of allogeneic stem cell transplantation has demonstrated the potential for immunotherapy to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Although alternative T-cell-based immunotherapies have shown efficacy, they also pose the risk of on-target off-leukemia hematotoxicity. So far, adoptive autologous or allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T/natural killer cell therapy is almost exclusively employed as a bridge-to-transplant strategy in the context of clinical trials. For now, clinical trials predominantly target lineage-restricted antigens, but emerging approaches focus on leukemia-associated/specific intracellular target antigens, including dual and split targeting strategies. Adapter CAR T cells and T-cell-recruiting bispecific antibodies offer transient exposure with enhanced safety and multitargeting potential against antigen-escape variants. However, these have yet to demonstrate sustained responses and should be used earlier to treat low leukemia burden, preferably if measurable residual disease is present. To address immune dysregulation and enhance T-cell fitness, novel CAR T and bispecific designs, along with combinatorial strategies, might prove essential. Furthermore, genetic associations with inflammatory bone marrow signatures suggest the need for tailored platforms in defined AML subtypes. The eagerly anticipated results of trials investigating magrolimab, an anti-CD47 antibody targeting the "do not eat me" signal in p53-mutated AML, should shed further light on the potential of these evolving immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Subklewe
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Laboratory for Translational Cancer Immunology, Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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17
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Guarnera L, Bravo-Perez C, Visconte V. Immunotherapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Literature Review of Emerging Strategies. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1228. [PMID: 37892958 PMCID: PMC10604866 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10101228] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last twenty years, we have witnessed a paradigm shift in the treatment and prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), thanks to the introduction of new efficient drugs or approaches to refine old therapies, such as Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin, CPX 3-5-1, hypomethylating agents, and Venetoclax, the optimization of conditioning regimens in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and the improvement of supportive care. However, the long-term survival of non-M3 and non-core binding factor-AML is still dismal. For this reason, the expectations for the recently developed immunotherapies, such as antibody-based therapy, checkpoint inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor strategies, successfully tested in other hematologic malignancies, were very high. The inherent characteristics of AML blasts hampered the development of these treatments, and the path of immunotherapy in AML has been bumpy. Herein, we provide a detailed review of potential antigenic targets, available data from pre-clinical and clinical trials, and future directions of immunotherapies in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Guarnera
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.B.-P.); (V.V.)
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlos Bravo-Perez
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.B.-P.); (V.V.)
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Morales Meseguer, University of Murcia, IMIB-Pascual Parrilla, CIBERER—Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 30005 Murcia, Spain
| | - Valeria Visconte
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (C.B.-P.); (V.V.)
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18
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Molica M, Perrone S, Andriola C, Rossi M. Immunotherapy with Monoclonal Antibodies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Work in Progress. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5060. [PMID: 37894427 PMCID: PMC10605302 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205060] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few years, molecularly targeted agents and immune-based treatments (ITs) have significantly changed the landscape of anti-cancer therapy. Indeed, ITs have been proven to be very effective when used against metastatic solid tumors, for which outcomes are extremely poor when using standard approaches. Such a scenario has only been partially reproduced in hematologic malignancies. In the context of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as innovative drugs are eagerly awaited in the relapsed/refractory setting, different ITs have been explored, but the results are still unsatisfactory. In this work, we will discuss the most important clinical studies to date that adopt ITs in AML, providing the basis to understand how this approach, although still in its infancy, may represent a promising therapeutic tool for the future treatment of AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Molica
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Azienda Universitaria Ospedaliera Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Perrone
- Department of Hematology, Polo Universitario Pontino, S.M. Goretti Hospital, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Costanza Andriola
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marco Rossi
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Azienda Universitaria Ospedaliera Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
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19
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Apostolova P, Kreutmair S, Toffalori C, Punta M, Unger S, Burk AC, Wehr C, Maas-Bauer K, Melchinger W, Haring E, Hoefflin R, Shoumariyeh K, Hupfer V, Lauer EM, Duquesne S, Lowinus T, Gonzalo Núñez N, Alberti C, da Costa Pereira S, Merten CH, Power L, Weiss M, Böke C, Pfeifer D, Marks R, Bertz H, Wäsch R, Ihorst G, Gentner B, Duyster J, Boerries M, Andrieux G, Finke J, Becher B, Vago L, Zeiser R. Phase II trial of hypomethylating agent combined with nivolumab for acute myeloid leukaemia relapse after allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation-Immune signature correlates with response. Br J Haematol 2023; 203:264-281. [PMID: 37539479 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19007] [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: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) relapse after allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is often driven by immune-related mechanisms and associated with poor prognosis. Immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with hypomethylating agents (HMA) may restore or enhance the graft-versus-leukaemia effect. Still, data about using this combination regimen after allo-HCT are limited. We conducted a prospective, phase II, open-label, single-arm study in which we treated patients with haematological AML relapse after allo-HCT with HMA plus the anti-PD-1 antibody nivolumab. The response was correlated with DNA-, RNA- and protein-based single-cell technology assessments to identify biomarkers associated with therapeutic efficacy. Sixteen patients received a median number of 2 (range 1-7) nivolumab applications. The overall response rate (CR/PR) at day 42 was 25%, and another 25% of the patients achieved stable disease. The median overall survival was 15.6 months. High-parametric cytometry documented a higher frequency of activated (ICOS+ , HLA-DR+ ), low senescence (KLRG1- , CD57- ) CD8+ effector T cells in responders. We confirmed these findings in a preclinical model. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed a pro-inflammatory rewiring of the expression profile of T and myeloid cells in responders. In summary, the study indicates that the post-allo-HCT HMA/nivolumab combination induces anti-AML immune responses in selected patients and could be considered as a bridging approach to a second allo-HCT. Trial-registration: EudraCT-No. 2017-002194-18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petya Apostolova
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Kreutmair
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Toffalori
- Unit of Immunogenetics, Leukemia Genomics and Immunobiology, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Punta
- Unit of Immunogenetics, Leukemia Genomics and Immunobiology, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Center for OMICS Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Susanne Unger
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ann-Cathrin Burk
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claudia Wehr
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Maas-Bauer
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Melchinger
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eileen Haring
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rouven Hoefflin
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Khalid Shoumariyeh
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Valerie Hupfer
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eliza Maria Lauer
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Duquesne
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Theresa Lowinus
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Chiara Alberti
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Carla Helena Merten
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laura Power
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Weiss
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Caroline Böke
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dietmar Pfeifer
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Reinhard Marks
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hartmut Bertz
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ralph Wäsch
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Ihorst
- Clinical Trials Unit, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Gentner
- Translational Stem Cell and Leukemia Unit, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne (UNIL) and Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Justus Duyster
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Boerries
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Geoffroy Andrieux
- Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Finke
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Burkhard Becher
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luca Vago
- Unit of Immunogenetics, Leukemia Genomics and Immunobiology, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Robert Zeiser
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS-Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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20
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Cao H, Wu T, Zhou X, Xie S, Sun H, Sun Y, Li Y. Progress of research on PD-1/PD-L1 in leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1265299. [PMID: 37822924 PMCID: PMC10562551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1265299] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Leukemia cells prevent immune system from clearing tumor cells by inducing the immunosuppression of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. In recent years, further understanding of the BM microenvironment and immune landscape of leukemia has resulted in the introduction of several immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors, T-cell engager, antibody drug conjugates, and cellular therapies in clinical trials. Among them, the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis is a significant checkpoint for controlling immune responses, the PD-1 receptor on tumor-infiltrating T cells is bound by PD-L1 on leukemia cells. Consequently, the activation of tumor reactive T cells is inhibited and their apoptosis is promoted, preventing the rejection of the tumor by immune system and thus resulting in the occurrence of immune tolerance. The PD-1/PD-L1 axis serves as a significant mechanism by which tumor cells evade immune surveillance, and PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of lymphomas and varieties of solid tumors. However, the development of drugs targeting PD-1/PD-L1 in leukemia remains in the clinical-trial stage. In this review, we tally up the basic research and clinical trials on PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in leukemia, as well as discuss the relevant toxicity and impacts of PD-1/PD-L1 on other immunotherapies such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, bi-specific T-cell engager, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Cao
- Department of Pediatrics, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Tianyu Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xue Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Shuyang Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Hongfang Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yunxiao Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Youjie Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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21
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Gurska L, Gritsman K. Unveiling T cell evasion mechanisms to immune checkpoint inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:674-687. [PMID: 37842238 PMCID: PMC10571054 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous and aggressive hematologic malignancy that is associated with a high relapse rate and poor prognosis. Despite advances in immunotherapies in solid tumors and other hematologic malignancies, AML has been particularly difficult to treat with immunotherapies, as their efficacy is limited by the ability of leukemic cells to evade T cell recognition. In this review, we discuss the common mechanisms of T cell evasion in AML: (1) increased expression of immune checkpoint molecules; (2) downregulation of antigen presentation molecules; (3) induction of T cell exhaustion; and (4) creation of an immunosuppressive environment through the increased frequency of regulatory T cells. We also review the clinical investigation of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in AML. We discuss the limitations of ICIs, particularly in the context of T cell evasion mechanisms in AML, and we describe emerging strategies to overcome T cell evasion, including combination therapies. Finally, we provide an outlook on the future directions of immunotherapy research in AML, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between AML cells and the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Gurska
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Kira Gritsman
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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22
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Chen EC, Garcia JS. Immunotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Trends, Challenges, and Strategies. Acta Haematol 2023; 147:198-218. [PMID: 37673048 DOI: 10.1159/000533990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past decade, there have been significant breakthroughs in immunotherapies for B-cell lymphoid malignancies and multiple myeloma, but progress has been much less for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Nevertheless, challenge begets innovation and several therapeutic strategies are under investigation. SUMMARY In this review, we review the state of the art in AML immunotherapy including CD33- and CD123-targeted agents, immune checkpoint inhibition, and adoptive cell therapy strategies. We also share conceptual frameworks for approaching the growing catalog of investigational AML immunotherapies and propose future directions for the field. KEY MESSAGES Immunotherapies for AML face significant challenges but novel strategies are in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan C Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Division of Leukemia, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jacqueline S Garcia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Division of Leukemia, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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23
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Senapati J, Kadia TM, Ravandi F. Maintenance therapy in acute myeloid leukemia: advances and controversies. Haematologica 2023; 108:2289-2304. [PMID: 37139599 PMCID: PMC10483353 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.281810] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The last decade has seen steadfast progress in drug development in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) which has moved progressively towards genomic-based therapy. With these advances, outcomes in AML have improved but remains far from satisfactory. One approach towards preventing relapse in AML is to use maintenance therapy in patients, after attaining remission. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an effective post-remission therapy that has been proven to reduce the risk of relapse. However, in patients who are ineligible for HSCT or have a high risk of relapse, other effective measures to prevent relapse are needed. There is also a need for post-HSCT maintenance to reduce relapse in high-risk subsets. Over the last 3 decades maintenance therapy in AML has evolved from the use of chemotherapeutic agents to more targeted therapies and better modulation of the immune system. Unfortunately, improvements in survival outcomes as a result of using these agents have not been consistently demonstrated in clinical trials. To derive the optimum benefit from maintenance therapy the time points of therapy initiation need to be defined and therapy must be selected precisely with respect to the AML genetics and risk stratification, prior treatment exposure, transplant eligibility, expected toxicity and the patient's clinical profile and desires. The far-reaching goal is to facilitate patients with AML in remission to achieve a normal quality of life while improving remission duration and overall survival. The QUAZAR trial was a welcome step towards a safe maintenance drug that is easy to administer and showed survival benefit but leaves many open issues for discussion. In this review we will discuss these issues, highlighting the development of AML maintenance therapies over the last 3 decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayastu Senapati
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Tapan M Kadia
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Farhad Ravandi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center.
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24
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Chergui A, Reagan JL. Immunotherapy in Acute Leukemias: Past Success Paves the Way for Future Progress. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4137. [PMID: 37627165 PMCID: PMC10453133 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy as a cancer treatment modality has undergone recent widespread proliferation across all cancer types, especially amongst patients with solid tumors. However, the longest tenured immunotherapy approach to cancer is allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) for two hematologic malignancies: acute myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemia (AML and ALL, respectively). While allo-SCT remains a standard of care for eligible patients, recent advances/applications of monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs), and CAR T-cell therapy are changing the treatment landscape for these acute leukemias by either direct to tumor immune targeting or through decreased toxicities that expand patient eligibility. Pre-clinical data and clinical trials have shown promising results for novel immunotherapies in acute leukemia, and multiple ongoing trials are investigating these novel approaches. While there have been promising results with these approaches, particularly in the relapsed/refractory setting, there remain challenges in optimizing the use of these therapies, such as managing cytokine release syndrome and other immune-related toxicities. Immunotherapy is a rapidly evolving field in the treatment of acute leukemia and has the potential to significantly impact the management of both AML and ALL. This review highlights the history of immunotherapy in the treatment of acute leukemias, the evolution of immunotherapy into more targeted approaches, the potential benefits and limitations of different immune targeting approaches, and ongoing research and development in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John L. Reagan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA;
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25
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Wu RH, Zhu CY, Yu PH, Ma Y, Hussain L, Naranmandura H, Wang QQ. The landscape of novel strategies for acute myeloid leukemia treatment: Therapeutic trends, challenges, and future directions. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 473:116585. [PMID: 37302559 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a highly heterogeneous subtype of hematological malignancies with a wide spectrum of cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities, which makes it difficult to manage and cure. Along with the deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying AML pathogenesis, a large cohort of novel targeted therapeutic approaches has emerged, which considerably expands the medical options and changes the therapeutic landscape of AML. Despite that, resistant and refractory cases caused by genomic mutations or bypass signalling activation remain a great challenge. Therefore, discovery of novel treatment targets, optimization of combination strategies, and development of efficient therapeutics are urgently required. This review provides a detailed and comprehensive discussion on the advantages and limitations of targeted therapies as a single agent or in combination with others. Furthermore, the innovative therapeutic approaches including hyperthermia, monoclonal antibody-based therapy, and CAR-T cell therapy are also introduced, which may provide safe and viable options for the treatment of patients with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ri Han Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Changchun Normal University, Changchun 130032, China
| | - Chen Ying Zhu
- Department of Hematology of First Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Pei Han Yu
- Department of Hematology of First Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yafang Ma
- Department of Hematology of First Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Liaqat Hussain
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Hua Naranmandura
- Department of Hematology of First Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qian Qian Wang
- Department of Hematology of First Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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26
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Testa U, Castelli G, Pelosi E. TP53-Mutated Myelodysplasia and Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2023; 15:e2023038. [PMID: 37435040 PMCID: PMC10332352 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2023.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
TP53-mutated myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) form a distinct and heterogeneous group of myeloid malignancies associated with poor outcomes. Studies carried out in the last years have in part elucidated the complex role played by TP53 mutations in the pathogenesis of these myeloid disorders and in the mechanisms of drug resistance. A consistent number of studies has shown that some molecular parameters, such as the presence of a single or multiple TP53 mutations, the presence of concomitant TP53 deletions, the association with co-occurring mutations, the clonal size of TP53 mutations, the involvement of a single (monoallelic) or of both TP53 alleles (biallelic) and the cytogenetic architecture of concomitant chromosome abnormalities are major determinants of outcomes of patients. The limited response of these patients to standard treatments, including induction chemotherapy, hypomethylating agents and venetoclax-based therapies and the discovery of an immune dysregulation have induced a shift to new emerging therapies, some of which being associated with promising efficacy. The main aim of these novel immune and nonimmune strategies consists in improving survival and in increasing the number of TP53-mutated MDS/AML patients in remission amenable to allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Testa
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome Italy
| | - Germana Castelli
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome Italy
| | - Elvira Pelosi
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome Italy
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27
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Spillane DR, Assouline S. Immunotherapy for myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia: where do we stand? Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:819-834. [PMID: 37819154 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2268273] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are generally characterized by a poor prognosis with currently available therapies. Immunotherapies have already seen success in treating a variety of malignant disorders, and their role in managing myeloid cancers is evolving rapidly. AREAS COVERED This is a review of the immunotherapies tested in MDS and AML, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific antibodies, and cell therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, T cell receptor (TCR) engineered T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, with a focus on clinical trials conducted to date and future directions. EXPERT OPINION Initial clinical trials exploring checkpoint inhibitors in MDS and AML have demonstrated high toxicity and disappointing efficacy. However, ongoing trials adding novel checkpoint inhibitors to standard therapy are more promising. Technological advances are improving the outlook for bispecific antibodies, and cellular therapies like adoptive NK cell infusion have favorable efficacy and tolerability in early trials. As our understanding of the immune microenvironment in MDS and AML improves, the role for immunotherapy in the treatment of these diseases will become clearer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Spillane
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarit Assouline
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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28
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Bouligny IM, Maher KR, Grant S. Secondary-Type Mutations in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Updates from ELN 2022. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3292. [PMID: 37444402 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133292] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The characterization of the molecular landscape and the advent of targeted therapies have defined a new era in the prognostication and treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Recent revisions in the European LeukemiaNet 2022 guidelines have refined the molecular, cytogenetic, and treatment-related boundaries between myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) and AML. This review details the molecular mechanisms and cellular pathways of myeloid maturation aberrancies contributing to dysplasia and leukemogenesis, focusing on recent molecular categories introduced in ELN 2022. We provide insights into novel and rational therapeutic combination strategies that exploit mechanisms of leukemogenesis, highlighting the underpinnings of splicing factors, the cohesin complex, and chromatin remodeling. Areas of interest for future research are summarized, and we emphasize approaches designed to advance existing treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M Bouligny
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Keri R Maher
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Steven Grant
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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29
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Zavaglio F, Vitello D, Bergami F, Arena F, Borsani O, Colombo AA, Caldera D, Lilleri D, Cassaniti I, Bernasconi P, Baldanti F. Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) - specific T-cell response after letermovir prophylaxis is predictive for subsequent HCMV reactivation in haematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. J Clin Virol 2023; 165:105519. [PMID: 37321150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2023.105519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is still one of the major concerning infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Letermovir (LTV) has been recently introduced for HCMV prophylaxis in adult patients who received allogeneic HSCT. However, many aspects related to immune reconstitution need to be further explored. The aim of this study was to define the prognostic role of HCMV-specific T-cell frequency measured at the end of LTV prophylaxis in predicting the risk for clinically significant HCMV infection (i.e. infection requiring antiviral treatment) after the stop of the prophylaxis. METHODS Sixty-six adult patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT were enrolled and HCMV DNAemia was prospectively monitored. Additionally, HCMV-specific T-cell response was evaluated using ELISpot assay against two different antigens (HCMV infected cell lysate and pp65 peptide pool). RESULTS Ten patients (15.2%) developed at least one positive HCMV DNAemia episode during LTV prophylaxis, whereas 50/66 (75.8%) patients developed at least one positive HCMV DNA event after LTV prophylaxis. Of note, 25 of them (50%) experienced a clinically significant HCMV infection. The median HCMV-specific T-cell response measured against HCMV lysate but not against pp65 peptide pool was lower in patients who developed HCMV clinically significant infection after prophylaxis. A ROC analysis revealed that the level of 0.04 HCMV-specific T cells/µl should be used as cut-off for development of clinically significant HCMV reactivation after prophylaxis. CONCLUSION Assessment of HCMV-specific immunity upon discontinuation of universal prophylaxis with LTV should be considered as a method for identification of patients at risk for clinically significant HCMV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Zavaglio
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Davide Vitello
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Federica Bergami
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Francesca Arena
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Oscar Borsani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia; Division of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | | | - Daniela Caldera
- Division of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Daniele Lilleri
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Irene Cassaniti
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia.
| | - Paolo Bernasconi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia; Division of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia; Department of Clinical, Surgical Diagnostics and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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30
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Turkalj S, Radtke FA, Vyas P. An Overview of Targeted Therapies in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Hemasphere 2023; 7:e914. [PMID: 37304938 PMCID: PMC10256410 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most aggressive adult leukemia, characterized by clonal differentiation arrest of progenitor or precursor hematopoietic cells. Intense preclinical and clinical research has led to regulatory approval of several targeted therapeutics, administered either as single agents or as combination therapies. However, the majority of patients still face a poor prognosis and disease relapse frequently occurs due to selection of therapy-resistant clones. Hence, more effective novel therapies, most likely as innovative, rational combination therapies, are urgently needed. Chromosomal aberrations, gene mutations, and epigenetic alterations drive AML pathogenesis but concurrently provide vulnerabilities to specifically target leukemic cells. Other molecules, either aberrantly active and/or overexpressed in leukemic stem cells, may also be leveraged for therapeutic benefit. This concise review of targeted therapies for AML treatment, which are either approved or are being actively investigated in clinical trials or recent preclinical studies, provides a flavor of the direction of travel, but also highlights the current challenges in AML treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Turkalj
- MRC Molecular Hematology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Centre for Hematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Felix A. Radtke
- MRC Molecular Hematology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Centre for Hematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Paresh Vyas
- MRC Molecular Hematology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Centre for Hematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Hematology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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31
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Pessoa FMCDP, Machado CB, Barreto IV, Sampaio GF, Oliveira DDS, Ribeiro RM, Lopes GS, de Moraes MEA, de Moraes Filho MO, de Souza LEB, Khayat AS, Moreira-Nunes CA. Association between Immunophenotypic Parameters and Molecular Alterations in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1098. [PMID: 37189716 PMCID: PMC10135936 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematologic malignancy that occurs due to alterations such as genetic mutations, chromosomal translocations, or changes in molecular levels. These alterations can accumulate in stem cells and hematopoietic progenitors, leading to the development of AML, which has a prevalence of 80% of acute leukemias in the adult population. Recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities, in addition to mediating leukemogenesis onset, participate in its evolution and can be used as established diagnostic and prognostic markers. Most of these mutations confer resistance to the traditionally used treatments and, therefore, the aberrant protein products are also considered therapeutic targets. The surface antigens of a cell are characterized through immunophenotyping, which has the ability to identify and differentiate the degrees of maturation and the lineage of the target cell, whether benign or malignant. With this, we seek to establish a relationship according to the molecular aberrations and immunophenotypic alterations that cells with AML present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Melo Cunha de Pinho Pessoa
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Caio Bezerra Machado
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Igor Valentim Barreto
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Giulia Freire Sampaio
- Unichristus University Center, Faculty of Biomedicine, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | | | | | - Germison Silva Lopes
- Department of Hematology, César Cals General Hospital, Fortaleza 60015-152, CE, Brazil
| | - Maria Elisabete Amaral de Moraes
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Manoel Odorico de Moraes Filho
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Lucas Eduardo Botelho de Souza
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14040-900, SP, Brazil
| | - André Salim Khayat
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oncology Research Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil
| | - Caroline Aquino Moreira-Nunes
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
- Unichristus University Center, Faculty of Biomedicine, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oncology Research Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Therapies that target the immune system are increasingly used across oncology, including in hematologic malignancies such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). While allogeneic transplant has been a key therapy in these cancers, new approaches that target the immune system are being explored including immune checkpoint therapies, antibody-drug conjugates, and cellular therapies. RECENT FINDINGS This review outlines updates in the preclinical rationale for immune directed therapies in MDS and AML, as well as recent clinical trials exploring these therapies. This manuscript summarizes the development of therapies targeting T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3) and CD47, which are being evaluated in late phase studies in MDS and AML. It also reviews the landscape of other immune based therapies including antibody-drug conjugates, chimeric antigen receptor-T cells, bispecific antibodies, and tumor vaccines. SUMMARY The treatment landscape in MDS and AML is rapidly changing; with a goal of improving the quality and duration of responses, a number of immune based therapies are under investigation. This review outlines recent advances with these therapies as well as some of the challenges that remain to incorporate them into leukemia care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Brunner
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ciotti G, Marconi G, Sperotto A, Giannini MB, Gottardi M, Martinelli G. Biological therapy in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:175-194. [PMID: 36715330 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2174015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The introduction of target molecules and immunological therapies is changing the treatment landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). AREAS COVERED We recapitulate the biological therapies that can be employed in the treatment of elderly patients with AML. Alongside small molecules inhibitors that target specific gene mutations, antibodies, tumor microenvironment modulators, and cellular therapies are being developed for the cure of the disease. Here, we report the biological activities, the efficacy and toxicities of humanized antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates that targets surface antigens as CD33 (gemtuzumab ozogamicine) or CD123 (pivekimab sunirine). We further explore mechanisms and effectiveness of medications that modify the microenvironment, such as glasdegib, or that harness the immune system against leukemia, such as CD47 antibody magrolimab, PD1/PDL1 inhibitors pembrolizumab and nivolumab, TIM3 inhibitor sabatolimab, T-cell and NK-cell engagers. Cellular therapies are considered, even if a large trial is still pending for the feasibility of the approach. In this scenario, a brief overview of the mechanism of action of target agents is provided, particularly with respect to their biological mechanisms. EXPERT OPINION Overall, this therapeutic armamentarium will constitute the basis for multimodal and personalized combinations that, in the idea of precision medicine, will enormously benefit elderly AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ciotti
- Onco Hematology, Department of Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marconi
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sperotto
- Onco Hematology, Department of Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Maria B Giannini
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Michele Gottardi
- Onco Hematology, Department of Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
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Aru B, Pehlivanoğlu C, Dal Z, Dereli-Çalışkan NN, Gürlü E, Yanıkkaya-Demirel G. A potential area of use for immune checkpoint inhibitors: Targeting bone marrow microenvironment in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1108200. [PMID: 36742324 PMCID: PMC9895857 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1108200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) arises from the cells of myeloid lineage and is the most frequent leukemia type in adulthood accounting for about 80% of all cases. The most common treatment strategy for the treatment of AML includes chemotherapy, in rare cases radiotherapy and stem cell and bone marrow transplantation are considered. Immune checkpoint proteins involve in the negative regulation of immune cells, leading to an escape from immune surveillance, in turn, causing failure of tumor cell elimination. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) target the negative regulation of the immune cells and support the immune system in terms of anti-tumor immunity. Bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) bears various blood cell lineages and the interactions between these lineages and the noncellular components of BMM are considered important for AML development and progression. Administration of ICIs for the AML treatment may be a promising option by regulating BMM. In this review, we summarize the current treatment options in AML treatment and discuss the possible application of ICIs in AML treatment from the perspective of the regulation of BMM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Başak Aru
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Cemil Pehlivanoğlu
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Zeynep Dal
- School of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Ege Gürlü
- School of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Gülderen Yanıkkaya-Demirel
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye,*Correspondence: Gülderen Yanıkkaya-Demirel,
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Serroukh Y, Hébert J, Busque L, Mercier F, Rudd CE, Assouline S, Lachance S, Delisle JS. Blasts in context: the impact of the immune environment on acute myeloid leukemia prognosis and treatment. Blood Rev 2023; 57:100991. [PMID: 35941029 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.100991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer that originates from the bone marrow (BM). Under physiological conditions, the bone marrow supports the homeostasis of immune cells and hosts memory lymphoid cells. In this review, we summarize our present understanding of the role of the immune microenvironment on healthy bone marrow and on the development of AML, with a focus on T cells and other lymphoid cells. The types and function of different immune cells involved in the AML microenvironment as well as their putative role in the onset of disease and response to treatment are presented. We also describe how the immune context predicts the response to immunotherapy in AML and how these therapies modulate the immune status of the bone marrow. Finally, we focus on allogeneic stem cell transplantation and summarize the current understanding of the immune environment in the post-transplant bone marrow, the factors associated with immune escape and relevant strategies to prevent and treat relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina Serroukh
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Erasmus Medical center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Hematology, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Josée Hébert
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada; The Quebec Leukemia Cell Bank, Canada
| | - Lambert Busque
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - François Mercier
- Division of Hematology and Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada
| | - Christopher E Rudd
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sarit Assouline
- Division of Hematology and Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada
| | - Silvy Lachance
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Delisle
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
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Lv W, Chen T, Wang S, Li C, Zhang B, Wang L, Xv F, Cao F, Wang J, Chen L, Liao C, Li N, Liu H. Feasibility of high-throughput drug sensitivity screening (HDS)-guided treatment for children with refractory or relapsed acute myeloid leukemia. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1117988. [PMID: 36873635 PMCID: PMC9982438 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1117988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Relapsed/refractory (rel/ref) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has a very high mortality rate. At present, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the most effective treatment for rel/ref AML. The remission of the primary disease before HSCT is crucial for the transplantation to be effective. Therefore, it is critical to choose a suitable type of chemotherapy before HSCT. Here, we recorded the outcomes of high-throughput drug sensitivity screening (HDS) in children with rel/ref AML. Thirty-seven pediatric rel/ref AML patients who received HDS from September 2017 until July 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Most of the patients (24 patients, 64.9%) had adverse cytogenetics. Two patients had rel/ref AML with central nervous system leukemia. The complete remission (CR) rate was 67.6%. Eight patients developed IV grade bone marrow suppression. Twenty-three patients (62.2%) underwent HSCT. The 3-year overall survival (OS) and EFS rates were 45.9% and 43.2%, respectively. Infection in the myelosuppression stage was the main cause of death. The outcome of HDS was superior to the commonly reported rates. These results suggest that HDS may be a novel treatment option for pediatric patients with rel/ref AML, and it is a promising transitional regimen prior to HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiu Lv
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital (Anhui Hospital, Pediatric Hospital of Fudan University), Hefei, Anhui, China.,Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Tianping Chen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital (Anhui Hospital, Pediatric Hospital of Fudan University), Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shen Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fang Xv
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fang Cao
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chenglin Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hongjun Liu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital (Anhui Hospital, Pediatric Hospital of Fudan University), Hefei, Anhui, China
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Chen Y, Wang J, Zhang F, Liu P. A perspective of immunotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia: Current advances and challenges. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1151032. [PMID: 37153761 PMCID: PMC10154606 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1151032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last decade, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been the subject of extensive study which has considerably increased our understanding of the disease. However, both resistance to chemotherapy and disease relapse remain the principal obstacles to successful treatment. Because of acute and chronic undesirable effects frequently associated with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy, consolidation chemotherapy is not feasible, especially for elderly patients, which has attracted a growing body of research to attempt to tackle this problem. Immunotherapies for acute myeloid leukemia, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, together with T-cell therapy based on engineered antigen receptor have been developed recently. Our review presents the recent progress in immunotherapy for the treatment of AML and discusses effective therapies that have the most potential and major challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Province Institute of Hematology, Guizhou Province Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Centre, Guiyang, China
| | - Jishi Wang
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Province Institute of Hematology, Guizhou Province Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Centre, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Jishi Wang,
| | - Fengqi Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Province Institute of Hematology, Guizhou Province Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Centre, Guiyang, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Province Institute of Hematology, Guizhou Province Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Centre, Guiyang, China
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Leveraging Natural Killer Cell Innate Immunity against Hematologic Malignancies: From Stem Cell Transplant to Adoptive Transfer and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010204. [PMID: 36613644 PMCID: PMC9820370 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous recent advancements in T-cell based immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment of hematologic malignancies. In the race towards the first approved allogeneic cellular therapy product, there is growing interest in utilizing natural killer (NK) cells as a platform for off-the-shelf cellular therapies due to their scalable manufacturing potential, potent anti-tumor efficacy, and superior safety profile. Allogeneic NK cell therapies are now being actively explored in the setting of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and adoptive transfer. Increasingly sophisticated gene editing techniques have permitted the engineering of chimeric antigen receptors, ectopic cytokine expression, and tumor recognition signals to improve the overall cytotoxicity of NK cell therapies. Furthermore, the enhancement of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity has been achieved through the use of NK cell engagers and combination regimens with monoclonal antibodies that act synergistically with CD16-expressing NK cells. Finally, a greater understanding of NK cell biology and the mechanisms of resistance have allowed the preclinical development of NK checkpoint blockade and methods to modulate the tumor microenvironment, which have been evaluated in early phase trials. This review will discuss the recent clinical advancements in NK cell therapies in hematologic malignancies as well as promising avenues of future research.
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TP53 Mutant Acute Myeloid Leukemia: The Immune and Metabolic Perspective. HEMATO 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/hemato3040050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
TP53 mutated/deleted acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stands out as one of the poorest prognosis forms of acute leukemia with a median overall survival not reaching one year in most cases, even in selected cases when allogenic stem-cell transplantation is performed. This aggressive behavior relies on intrinsic chemoresistance of blast cells and on high rates of relapse. New insights into the biology of the disease have shown strong linkage between TP53 mutant AML, altered metabolic features and immunoregulation uncovering new scenarios and leading to possibilities beyond current treatment approaches. Furthermore, new targeted therapies acting on misfolded/dysfunctional p53 protein are under current investigation with the aim to improve outcomes. In this review, we sought to offer an insight into TP53 mutant AML current biology and treatment approaches, with a special focus on leukemia-associated immune and metabolic changes.
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Rutella S, Vadakekolathu J, Mazziotta F, Reeder S, Yau TO, Mukhopadhyay R, Dickins B, Altmann H, Kramer M, Knaus HA, Blazar BR, Radojcic V, Zeidner JF, Arruda A, Wang B, Abbas HA, Minden MD, Tasian SK, Bornhäuser M, Gojo I, Luznik L. Immune dysfunction signatures predict outcomes and define checkpoint blockade-unresponsive microenvironments in acute myeloid leukemia. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e159579. [PMID: 36099049 PMCID: PMC9621145 DOI: 10.1172/jci159579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundImmune exhaustion and senescence are dominant dysfunctional states of effector T cells and major hurdles for the success of cancer immunotherapy. In the current study, we characterized how acute myeloid leukemia (AML) promotes the generation of senescent-like CD8+ T cells and whether they have prognostic relevance.METHODSWe analyzed NanoString, bulk RNA-Seq and single-cell RNA-Seq data from independent clinical cohorts comprising 1,896 patients treated with chemotherapy and/or immune checkpoint blockade (ICB).ResultsWe show that senescent-like bone marrow CD8+ T cells were impaired in killing autologous AML blasts and that their proportion negatively correlated with overall survival (OS). We defined what we believe to be new immune effector dysfunction (IED) signatures using 2 gene expression profiling platforms and reported that IED scores correlated with adverse-risk molecular lesions, stemness, and poor outcomes; these scores were a more powerful predictor of OS than 2017-ELN risk or leukemia stem cell (LSC17) scores. IED expression signatures also identified an ICB-unresponsive tumor microenvironment and predicted significantly shorter OS.ConclusionThe IED scores provided improved AML-risk stratification and could facilitate the delivery of personalized immunotherapies to patients who are most likely to benefit.TRIAL REGISTRATIONClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02845297.FUNDINGJohn and Lucille van Geest Foundation, Nottingham Trent University's Health & Wellbeing Strategic Research Theme, NIH/NCI P01CA225618, Genentech-imCORE ML40354, Qatar National Research Fund (NPRP8-2297-3-494).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Rutella
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jayakumar Vadakekolathu
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Mazziotta
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stephen Reeder
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Tung-On Yau
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rupkatha Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin Dickins
- John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi Altmann
- Department of Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Kramer
- Department of Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hanna A. Knaus
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bruce R. Blazar
- Masonic Cancer Center and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Vedran Radojcic
- Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Joshua F. Zeidner
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrea Arruda
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bofei Wang
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine and
| | - Hussein A. Abbas
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine and
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mark D. Minden
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sarah K. Tasian
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology and Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Martin Bornhäuser
- Department of Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases and German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Research Centre, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ivana Gojo
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Leo Luznik
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Current status and future perspectives in targeted therapy of NPM1-mutated AML. Leukemia 2022; 36:2351-2367. [PMID: 36008542 PMCID: PMC9522592 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01666-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) is a nucleus-cytoplasmic shuttling protein which is predominantly located in the nucleolus and exerts multiple functions, including regulation of centrosome duplication, ribosome biogenesis and export, histone assembly, maintenance of genomic stability and response to nucleolar stress. NPM1 mutations are the most common genetic alteration in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), detected in about 30–35% of adult AML and more than 50% of AML with normal karyotype. Because of its peculiar molecular and clinico-pathological features, including aberrant cytoplasmic dislocation of the NPM1 mutant and wild-type proteins, lack of involvement in driving clonal hematopoiesis, mutual exclusion with recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities, association with unique gene expression and micro-RNA profiles and high stability at relapse, NPM1-mutated AML is regarded as a distinct genetic entity in the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of hematopoietic malignancies. Starting from the structure and functions of NPM1, we provide an overview of the potential targeted therapies against NPM1-mutated AML and discuss strategies aimed at interfering with the oligomerization (compound NSC348884) and the abnormal traffic of NPM1 (avrainvillamide, XPO1 inhibitors) as well as at inducing selective NPM1-mutant protein degradation (ATRA/ATO, deguelin, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, imidazoquinoxaline derivatives) and at targeting the integrity of nucleolar structure (actinomycin D). We also discuss the current therapeutic results obtained in NPM1-mutated AML with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax and the preliminary clinical results using menin inhibitors targeting HOX/MEIS1 expression. Finally, we review various immunotherapeutic approaches in NPM1-mutated AML, including immune check-point inhibitors, CAR and TCR T-cell-based therapies against neoantigens created by the NPM1 mutations.
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Abaza Y, Zeidan AM. Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142249. [PMID: 35883692 PMCID: PMC9318025 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of many solid tumors, with limited progress made in the area of myeloid malignancies. The low mutational burden of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one potential reason behind the lack of activity of T-cell harnessing ICIs, particularly CTLA-4 and PD-1 inhibitors. Innate immune checkpoints play a critical role in the immune escape of AML and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The CD47 targeting agent, magrolimab, has shown promising activity when combined with azacitidine in early phase trials conducted in AML and higher-risk MDS, especially among patients harboring a TP53 mutation. Similarly, sabatolimab (an anti-TIM-3 monoclonal antibody) plus hypomethylating agents have shown durable responses in higher-risk MDS and AML in early clinical trials. Randomized trials are currently ongoing to confirm the efficacy of these agents. In this review, we will present the current progress and future directions of immune checkpoint inhibition in AML and MDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Abaza
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Amer M. Zeidan
- Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Smilow Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Correspondence:
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Angenendt L, Mikesch JH, Schliemann C. Emerging antibody-based therapies for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Treat Rev 2022; 108:102409. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Wiatrowski K, Kim TH, Przespolewski A. Cellular and Molecular Biomarkers Predictive of Response to Immunotherapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:826768. [PMID: 35664748 PMCID: PMC9160191 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.826768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has without question revolutionized the treatment of both hematologic and solid malignancies. Over the last several years novel strategies are being developed to incorporate these groundbreaking therapies into the care of patients with AML. Here we present an overview of the recent developments in immunotherapy for AML with a focus on biomarkers of response. Topics reviewed include antibody drug conjugates, BiTEs, DARTs, checkpoint inhibitors, and cellular therapy as well as the development of biomarkers predictive of response in each class.
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45
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Granowicz EM, Jonas BA. Targeting TP53-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Research and Clinical Developments. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:423-436. [PMID: 35479302 PMCID: PMC9037178 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s265637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TP53 is a key tumor suppressor gene that plays an important role in regulating apoptosis, senescence, and DNA damage repair in response to cellular stress. Although somewhat rare, TP53-mutated AML has been identified as an important molecular subgroup with a prognosis that is arguably the worst of any. Survival beyond one year is rare after induction chemotherapy with or without consolidative allogeneic stem cell transplant. Although response rates have been improved with hypomethylating agents, outcomes remain particularly poor due to short response duration. Improvements in our understanding of AML genetics and biology have led to a surge in novel treatment options, though the clinical applicability of these agents in TP53-mutated disease remains largely unknown. This review will focus on the epidemiology, molecular characteristics, and clinical significance of TP53 mutations in AML as well as emerging treatment options that are currently being studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Granowicz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Brian A Jonas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Badar T, Manna A, Gadd ME, Kharfan-Dabaja MA, Qin H. Prospect of CAR T-cell therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:211-220. [PMID: 35051347 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2032642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Long-term outcome of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains dismal, especially for those with high-risk disease or who are refractory to conventional therapy. CAR T-cell therapy provides unique opportunity to improve outcome by specifically targeting leukemia cells through genetically engineered T-cells. AREAS COVERED We summarize the progress of CAR T-cells therapy in AML. We examine its shortcomings in AML therapy and the strategies that are being implemented to improve its safety and effectiveness. PubMed Central, ClinicalTrials.gov and ASH annual meeting abstracts, were searched. Search terms used to identify clinical trials were "CAR T-cells in AML" OR CAR T-cells in leukemia". Relevant clinical trials and CAR T-cell research data was reviewed from June 2009 till July 2021. EXPERT OPINION CAR T-cell therapy has shown promise as a novel therapy, but there are number of barriers to overcome to achieve it full therapeutic potential in AML. Targeting leukemia specific antigen such as CLL1, to avoid myelotoxicity; incorporating checkpoint inhibitors to overcome leukemia induced immunosuppression and allogenic CAR T-cells to increases accessibility to patients with proliferative disease are among the strategies that are being explored to make CAR T-cell a successful immunotherapy for patient with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talha Badar
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Florida, USA
| | - Alak Manna
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Florida, USA
| | - Martha E Gadd
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Florida, USA
| | | | - Hong Qin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Florida, USA
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47
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Checkpoint Inhibitors and Other Immune-Based Therapies in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancer J 2022; 28:43-50. [DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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48
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Boissel N, Rabian F. Immunotherapies in acute leukemia. Therapie 2021; 77:241-250. [PMID: 34924207 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2021.12.003] [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: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising field of therapeutic progress in acute leukemia. Antibody-drug conjugates are now combined to standard chemotherapy backbones in both acute myeloid (AML) and lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). CD19 targeting immune cell engagers and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have been approved in relapsed/refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and pave the way to promising developments in acute myeloid leukemia. Next generation immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting TIM-3 or CD47 binding by SIRPα on macrophages are tested in combination to hypomethylating agents to improve survival of unfit AML patients with acceptable safety profiles. This review summarizes the antibody-derived strategies developed in the field of acute leukemias with a specific focus on recently approved drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Boissel
- Hematology Adolescent and Young Adult Unit, Saint-Louis Hospital, AP-HP, 1, avenue Claude-Vellefaux, 75010 Paris, France; URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France.
| | - Florence Rabian
- Hematology Adolescent and Young Adult Unit, Saint-Louis Hospital, AP-HP, 1, avenue Claude-Vellefaux, 75010 Paris, France; URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France
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49
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Tschernia NP, Kumar V, Moore DT, Vincent BG, Coombs CC, Van Deventer H, Foster MC, DeZern AE, Luznik L, Riches ML, Serody JS, Gojo I, Zeidner JF. Safety and Efficacy of Pembrolizumab Prior to Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation for Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. Transplant Cell Ther 2021; 27:1021.e1-1021.e5. [PMID: 34474164 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2021.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Programmed death 1 (PD-1) is an integral component of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) immune evasion, chemotherapy resistance, and disease progression. PD-1 inhibitors are being investigated as treatment for AML in combination with hypomethylating agents and cytotoxic chemotherapy with encouraging findings. Although allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) remains the most established curative treatment for patients with relapsed and refractory AML in complete remission, there are limited data on the clinical outcomes and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) prior to alloSCT in AML. In the present study, we compared clinical outcomes of 9 patients with AML receiving high-dose cytarabine followed by pembrolizumab in a phase II clinical trial (NCT02768792) prior to alloSCT versus a historical control group of 18 AML patients who underwent alloSCT without prior ICI exposure. The nonparametric Jonckheere-Terpstra test was used to test for a difference in the ordered severity categories of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) within 100 days of transplantation. Time-to-event estimates for overall survival and relapse-free survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using a log-rank test. One-year survival was not significantly different between the treatment groups (67% versus 78%; P = .34). 100-day mortality was 0% in the ICI group versus 17% in the control group, and there was no increase in grade III-IV acute GVHD in patients treated with pembrolizumab prior to alloSCT. No chronic GVHD was seen in patients treated with pembrolizumab prior to alloSCT and who received post-transplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy) as part of their conditioning regimen. These findings reinforce the safety and feasibility of ICI therapy prior to alloSCT in patients with AML, and suggest that PTCy may abrogate GVHD risk and severity in patients who receive ICI prior to undergoing alloSCT for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas P Tschernia
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Vaibhav Kumar
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Dominic T Moore
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Benjamin G Vincent
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Catherine C Coombs
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hendrik Van Deventer
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Matthew C Foster
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Amy E DeZern
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Leo Luznik
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Marcie L Riches
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan S Serody
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ivana Gojo
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua F Zeidner
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
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50
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Wei SC, Mancuso JJ, Daver N, Allison JP. Checkpoint Blockade + Chemotherapy: the Right Combination for AML? Blood Cancer Discov 2021; 2:551-554. [PMID: 35015675 PMCID: PMC9894576 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-21-0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An emerging strategy to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in relapsed/refractory cancers is increasing immunogenic cell death via combination with cytotoxic therapies. Understanding the effects of cytotoxic and immunotherapeutic agents on immune cell populations will enable improved mechanism-based design of combination therapies to maximum efficacy and minimum toxicity.See related article by Zeidner et al., p. 616.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer C. Wei
- Spotlight Therapeutics, Hayward, California.,Corresponding Authors: Spencer C. Wei, Spotlight Therapeutics, 3953 Point Eden Way, Hayward, CA 94545. E-mail: ; and James P. Allison, Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7455 Fannin Street, 1SCR3.1035, Houston, TX 77030. Phone: 713-794-1104; E-mail:
| | - James J. Mancuso
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - James P. Allison
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Corresponding Authors: Spencer C. Wei, Spotlight Therapeutics, 3953 Point Eden Way, Hayward, CA 94545. E-mail: ; and James P. Allison, Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7455 Fannin Street, 1SCR3.1035, Houston, TX 77030. Phone: 713-794-1104; E-mail:
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