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Sauerer T, Albrecht L, Sievers NM, Gerer KF, Hoyer S, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Electroporation of mRNA as a Universal Technology Platform to Transfect a Variety of Primary Cells with Antigens and Functional Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:219-235. [PMID: 38814397 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_10] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Electroporation (EP) of mRNA into human cells is a broadly applicable method to transiently express proteins of choice in a variety of different cell types. We have spent more than two decades to optimize and adapt this method, first for antigen-loading of dendritic cells (DCs) and subsequently for T cells, B cells, bulk PBMCs, and several cell lines. In this regard, antigens were introduced, processed, and presented in context of MHC class I and II. Next to that, functional proteins like adhesion receptors, T-cell receptors (TCRs), chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), constitutively active signal transducers (i.e. caIKK), and others were successfully expressed. We have also established this protocol under full GMP compliance as part of a manufacturing license to produce mRNA-electroporated DCs and mRNA-electroporated T cells for therapeutic applications in clinical trials. Therefore, we here want to share our universal mRNA electroporation protocol and the experience we have gathered with this method. The advantages of the transfection method presented here are: (1) easy adaptation to different cell types; (2) scalability from 106 to approximately 108 cells per shot; (3) high transfection efficiency (80-99%); (4) homogenous protein expression; (5) GMP compliance if the EP is performed in a class A clean room; and (6) no transgene integration into the genome. The provided protocol involves: OptiMEM® as EP medium, a square-wave pulse with 500 V, and 4 mm cuvettes. To adapt the protocol to differently sized cells, simply the pulse time has to be altered. Thus, we share an overview of proven electroporation settings (including recovery media), which we have established for various cell types. Next to the basic protocol, we also provide an extensive list of hints and tricks, which, in our opinion, are of great value for everyone who intends to use this transfection technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Sauerer
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Leoni Albrecht
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nico M Sievers
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kerstin F Gerer
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
- Novartis Pharma GmbH, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hoyer
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center CCC Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen (UKER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany.
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Simon B, Harrer DC, Schuler-Thurner B, Schuler G, Uslu U. Arming T Cells with a gp100-Specific TCR and a CSPG4-Specific CAR Using Combined DNA- and RNA-Based Receptor Transfer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050696. [PMID: 31137488 PMCID: PMC6562862 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells can develop immune escape mechanisms to bypass T cell recognition, e.g., antigen loss or downregulation of the antigen presenting machinery, which represents a major challenge in adoptive T cell therapy. To counteract these mechanisms, we transferred not only one, but two receptors into the same T cell to generate T cells expressing two additional receptors (TETARs). We generated these TETARs by lentiviral transduction of a gp100-specific T cell receptor (TCR) and subsequent electroporation of mRNA encoding a second-generation CSPG4-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Following pilot experiments to optimize the combined DNA- and RNA-based receptor transfer, the functionality of TETARs was compared to T cells either transfected with the TCR only or the CAR only. After transfection, TETARs clearly expressed both introduced receptors on their cell surface. When stimulated with tumor cells expressing either one of the antigens or both, TETARs were able to secrete cytokines and showed cytotoxicity. The confirmation that two antigen-specific receptors can be functionally combined using two different methods to introduce each receptor into the same T cell opens new possibilities and opportunities in cancer immunotherapy. For further evaluation, the use of these TETARs in appropriate animal models will be the next step towards a potential clinical use in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Simon
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Dennis C Harrer
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ugur Uslu
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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Foster JB, Barrett DM, Karikó K. The Emerging Role of In Vitro-Transcribed mRNA in Adoptive T Cell Immunotherapy. Mol Ther 2019; 27:747-756. [PMID: 30819612 PMCID: PMC6453504 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive T cell therapy is a form of cellular therapy that utilizes human immune cells, often empowered by the expression of recombinant proteins, to attack selected targets present on tumor or infected cells. T cell-based immunotherapy has been progressing over the past several decades, and reached a milestone with the recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for relapsed and refractory leukemia and lymphoma. Although most studies have used viral vectors, a growing number of researchers have come to appreciate in vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA for the development, testing, and application of T cell-based immunotherapeutics. IVT mRNA offers inherent safety features, highly efficient recombinant protein translation, and the ability to control pharmacokinetic properties of the therapy. In this review, we discuss the history of IVT mRNA in adoptive T cell therapy, from tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and T cell receptor-based therapies to chimeric antigen receptor therapy and gene-editing techniques, as well as prior and ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica B Foster
- Division of Oncology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - David M Barrett
- Division of Oncology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Zulfiqar HF, Javed A, Sumbal, Afroze B, Ali Q, Akbar K, Nadeem T, Rana MA, Nazar ZA, Nasir IA, Husnain T. HIV Diagnosis and Treatment through Advanced Technologies. Front Public Health 2017; 5:32. [PMID: 28326304 PMCID: PMC5339269 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the chief contributor to global burden of disease. In 2010, HIV was the fifth leading cause of disability-adjusted life years in people of all ages and leading cause for people aged 30-44 years. It is classified as a member of the family Retroviridae and genus Lentivirus based on the biological, morphological, and genetic properties. It infects different cells of the immune system, such as CD4+ T cells (T-helper cells), dendritic cells, and macrophages. HIV has two subtypes: HIV-1 and HIV-2. Among these strains, HIV-1 is the most virulent and pathogenic. Advanced diagnostic methods are exploring new ways of treatment and contributing in the reduction of HIV cases. The diagnostic techniques like PCR, rapid test, EIA, p24 antigen, and western blot have markedly upgraded the diagnosis of HIV. Antiretroviral therapy and vaccines are promising candidates in providing therapeutic and preventive regimes, respectively. Invention of CRISPR/Cas9 is a breakthrough in the field of HIV disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aneeqa Javed
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Sumbal
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Bakht Afroze
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Qurban Ali
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Khadija Akbar
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Tariq Nadeem
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | | | - Zaheer Ahmad Nazar
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Idrees Ahmad Nasir
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Tayyab Husnain
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
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5
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Gerer KF, Hoyer S, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Electroporation of mRNA as Universal Technology Platform to Transfect a Variety of Primary Cells with Antigens and Functional Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1499:165-178. [PMID: 27987149 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6481-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Electroporation (EP) of mRNA into human cells is a broadly applicable method to transiently express proteins of choice in a variety of different cell types. We have spent more than a decade to optimize and adapt this method, first for antigen-loading of dendritic cells (DCs), and subsequently for T cells, B cells, bulk PBMCs, and several cell lines. In this regard, antigens were introduced, processed, and presented in context of MHC class I and II. Next to that, functional proteins like adhesion receptors, T-cell receptors (TCRs), chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), constitutively active signal transducers, and others were successfully expressed. We have also established this protocol under full GMP compliance as part of a manufacturing license to produce mRNA-electroporated DCs for therapeutic vaccination in clinical trials. Therefore, we here want to share our universal mRNA electroporation protocol and the experience we have gathered with this method. The advantages of the transfection method presented here are: (1) easy adaptation to different cell types, (2) scalability from 106 to approximately 108 cells per shot, (3) high transfection efficiency (80-99 %), (4) homogenous protein expression, (5) GMP compliance if the EP is performed in a class A clean room, and (6) no transgene integration into the genome. The provided protocol involves: Opti-MEM® as EP medium, a square-wave pulse with 500 V, and 4 mm cuvettes. To adapt the protocol to differently sized cells, simply the pulse time is altered. Next to the basic protocol, we also provide an extensive list of hints and tricks, which in our opinion are of great value for everyone who intends to use this transfection technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin F Gerer
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Research campus, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hoyer
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Research campus, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Research campus, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Research campus, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany.
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6
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Zhou CY, Wen Q, Chen XJ, Wang RN, He WT, Zhang SM, Du XL, Ma L. Human CD8(+) T cells transduced with an additional receptor bispecific for both Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HIV-1 recognize both epitopes. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:1984-98. [PMID: 27113787 PMCID: PMC5020620 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection are closely intertwined, with one-quarter of TB/HIV coinfected deaths among people died of TB. Effector CD8(+) T cells play a crucial role in the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and HIV-1 infection in coinfected patients. Adoptive transfer of a multitude of effector CD8(+) T cells is an appealing strategy to impose improved anti-MTB/HIV-1 activity onto coinfected individuals. Due to extensive existence of heterologous immunity, that is, T cells cross-reactive with peptides encoded by related or even very dissimilar pathogens, it is reasonable to find a single T cell receptor (TCR) recognizing both MTB and HIV-1 antigenic peptides. In this study, a single TCR specific for both MTB Ag85B199-207 peptide and HIV-1 Env120-128 peptide was screened out from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a HLA-A*0201(+) healthy individual using complementarity determining region 3 spectratype analysis and transferred to primary CD8(+) T cells using a recombinant retroviral vector. The bispecificity of the TCR gene-modified CD8(+) T cells was demonstrated by elevated secretion of interferon-γ, tumour necrosis factor-α, granzyme B and specific cytolytic activity after antigen presentation of either Ag85B199-207 or Env120-128 by autologous dendritic cells. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report proposing to produce responses against two dissimilar antigenic peptides of MTB and HIV-1 simultaneously by transfecting CD8(+) T cells with a single TCR. Taken together, T cells transduced with the additional bispecific TCR might be a useful strategy in immunotherapy for MTB/HIV-1 coinfected individuals.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Antigens/immunology
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/metabolism
- Base Sequence
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Epitopes/immunology
- Genetic Vectors/metabolism
- HIV-1/immunology
- Humans
- Interferon-gamma/metabolism
- Lectins, C-Type/metabolism
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis/immunology
- Peptides/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/chemistry
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Transduction, Genetic
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ying Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Wen
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Chen
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui-Ning Wang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Ting He
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shi-Meng Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia-Lin Du
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Ma
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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7
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Strategies to cure HIV-1 infection require the eradication of viral reservoirs. An innovative approach for boosting the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response is the transfer of T-cell receptors (TCRs). Previously, we have shown that electroporation of TCR-encoding mRNA is able to reprogram CD8 T cells derived from healthy donors. So far, it is unknown whether the transfer of HIV-1-specific TCRs is capable to reprogram CD8 T cells of HIV-1-infected patients. To assess the efficiency of TCR-transfer by mRNA electroporation and the functionality of reprogramed T cells in HIV-1-infected patients, we performed an in-vitro analysis of TCR-transfer into T cells from HIV-1-infected patients in various stages of disease and from healthy controls. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 16 HIV-1-infected patients (nine HLA-A02-positive, seven HLA-A02-negative) and from five healthy controls were electroporated with mRNA-constructs encoding TCRs specific for the HLA-A02/HIV-1-gag p17 epitope SLYNTVATL (SL9). Functionality of the TCRs was measured by γIFN-ELISpot assays. RESULTS SL9/TCR transfection into peripheral blood mononuclear cells from both HLA-A02-positive and HLA-A02-negative HIV-1-infected patients and from healthy blood donors reprogramed T cells for recognition of SL9-presenting HLA-A02-positive cells in γIFN-ELISpot assays. SL9/TCR-transfer into T cells from an immunodeficient AIDS patient could induce recognition of SL9-expressing target cells only after reversion of T-cell dysfunction by antiretroviral therapy. CONCLUSION The transfer of HIV-1-p17-specific TCRs into T cells is functional both in HIV-1-infected patients as well as in healthy blood donors. TCR-transfer is a promising method to boost the immune system against HIV-1.
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Uslu U, Schuler G, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Combining a chimeric antigen receptor and a conventional T-cell receptor to generate T cells expressing two additional receptors (TETARs) for a multi-hit immunotherapy of melanoma. Exp Dermatol 2016; 25:872-879. [PMID: 27246630 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The adoptive transfer of engineered T cells represents an important approach in immunotherapy of melanoma. However, relapse of the tumor can occur due to immune-escape mechanisms developed by the tumor cells, for example antigen loss, downregulation of the major histocompatibility complex presentation machinery and defects in antigen processing. To counteract these mechanisms, we combined a T-cell receptor and a chimeric antigen receptor, specific for different common melanoma antigens, gp100 (PMEL) and MCSP (HMW-MAA), to generate functional CD8+ T cells expressing two additional receptors (TETARs) by electroporation of receptor-encoding mRNA. These TETARs produced cytokines and were lytic upon recognition of each of their cognate antigens, while no reciprocal inhibition of the receptors occurred. When stimulated with target cells, which express both antigens, an enhanced effect was suggested. The confirmation that chimeric antigen receptors and T-cell receptors can be functionally combined opens up new avenues in cancer immunotherapy, and the generation of TETARs helps by-passing major mechanisms by which tumor cells escape immune recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Uslu
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
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9
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Spear TT, Nagato K, Nishimura MI. Strategies to genetically engineer T cells for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2016; 65:631-49. [PMID: 27138532 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-016-1842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is one of the most promising and innovative approaches to treat cancer, viral infections, and other immune-modulated diseases. Adoptive immunotherapy using gene-modified T cells is an exciting and rapidly evolving field. Exploiting knowledge of basic T cell biology and immune cell receptor function has fostered innovative approaches to modify immune cell function. Highly translatable clinical technologies have been developed to redirect T cell specificity by introducing designed receptors. The ability to engineer T cells to manifest desired phenotypes and functions is now a thrilling reality. In this review, we focus on outlining different varieties of genetically engineered T cells, their respective advantages and disadvantages as tools for immunotherapy, and their promise and drawbacks in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy T Spear
- Department of Surgery, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. 1st Ave, Bldg 112, Room 308, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA.
| | - Kaoru Nagato
- Department of Surgery, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. 1st Ave, Bldg 112, Room 308, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Michael I Nishimura
- Department of Surgery, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Medical Center, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. 1st Ave, Bldg 112, Room 308, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
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10
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Krug C, Birkholz K, Paulus A, Schwenkert M, Schmidt P, Hoffmann N, Hombach A, Fey G, Abken H, Schuler G, Schuler-Thurner B, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Stability and activity of MCSP-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) depend on the scFv antigen-binding domain and the protein backbone. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2015; 64:1623-35. [PMID: 26515978 PMCID: PMC11028909 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-015-1767-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells emerged as effective tools in the immunotherapy of cancer but can produce severe on-target off-tissue toxicities. This risk can conceivably be overcome, at least partially, by transient transfection. The design of CARs, however, has so far not been optimized for use in non-permanent T cell modification. Here we compared the performance of T cells modified with three different first- and second-generation CARs, each specific for MCSP (HMW-MAA) which is commonly expressed by melanoma cells. Upon RNA transfer, the expression of all receptors was limited in time. The second-generation CARs, which combined CD28-CD3ζ signaling, were expressed at higher levels and more prolonged than first-generation CARs with CD3ζ only. The CD28 domain increased the cytokine production, but had only an indirect effect on the lytic capacity, by prolonging the CAR expression. Especially for the second-generation CARs, the scFv clearly impacted the level and duration of CAR expression and the T cell performance. Thus, we identified a CAR high in both expression and anti-tumor cell reactivity. T cells transfected with this CAR increased the mean survival time of mice after challenge with melanoma cells. To facilitate clinical application, this CAR was used to redirect T cells from late-stage melanoma patients by RNA transfection. These T cells mediated effective antigen-specific tumor cell lysis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, even after cryoconservation of the transfected T cells. Taken together, the analysis identified a CAR with superior anti-melanoma performance after RNA transfer which is a promising candidate for clinical exploration.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carrier Proteins/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/immunology
- Humans
- Melanoma/immunology
- Melanoma/physiopathology
- Mice
- Mitochondrial Proteins/genetics
- Mitochondrial Proteins/immunology
- Protein Stability
- Protein Structure, Tertiary
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/metabolism
- Single-Chain Antibodies/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Krug
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katrin Birkholz
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Paulus
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Schwenkert
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Patrick Schmidt
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department I Internal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nicole Hoffmann
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department I Internal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Hombach
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department I Internal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Georg Fey
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hinrich Abken
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department I Internal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany.
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11
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Motozono C, Bridgeman JS, Price DA, Sewell AK, Ueno T. Clonotypically similar hybrid αβ T cell receptors can exhibit markedly different surface expression, antigen specificity and cross-reactivity. Clin Exp Immunol 2015; 180:560-70. [PMID: 25721491 PMCID: PMC4449784 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging data indicate that particular major histocompatibility complex (MHC)‐bound antigenic peptides can be recognized by identical or near‐identical αβ T cell receptors (TCRs) in different individuals. To establish the functional relevance of this phenomenon, we artificially paired α and β chains from closely related TCRs specific for the human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐B*35:01‐restricted HIV‐1 negative regulatory factor (Nef)‐derived epitope VY8 (VPLRPMTY, residues 74–81). Several hybrid TCRs generated in this manner failed to express at the cell surface, despite near homology with naturally isolated αβ chain combinations. Moreover, a substantial proportion of those αβ TCRs that did express lost specificity for the index VY8 peptide sequence. One such hybrid αβ pair gained neo‐variant specificity in the context of the VY8 backbone. Collectively, these data show that clonotypically similar TCRs can display profound differences in surface expression, antigen specificity and cross‐reactivity with potential relevance for the control of mutable viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Motozono
- Center for AIDS Research, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - J S Bridgeman
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - D A Price
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - A K Sewell
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - T Ueno
- Center for AIDS Research, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,International Research Center for Medical Research, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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12
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Höfflin S, Prommersberger S, Uslu U, Schuler G, Schmidt CW, Lennerz V, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Generation of CD8(+) T cells expressing two additional T-cell receptors (TETARs) for personalised melanoma therapy. Cancer Biol Ther 2015; 16:1323-31. [PMID: 26178065 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2015.1070981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive T-cell therapy of cancer often fails due to the tumor cells' immune escape mechanisms, like antigen loss or down-regulation. To anticipate immune escape by loss of a single antigen, it would be advantageous to equip T cells with multiple specificities. To study the possible interference of 2 T-cell receptors (TCRs) in one cell, and to examine how to counteract competing effects, we generated TETARs, CD8(+) T cells expressing two additional T-cell receptors by simultaneous transient transfection with 2 TCRs using RNA electroporation. The TETARs were equipped with one TCR specific for the common melanoma antigen gp100 and one TCR recognizing a patient-specific, individual mutation of CCT6A (chaperonin containing TCP1, subunit 6A) termed "CCT6A(m) TCR." These CD8(+) T cells proved functional in cytokine secretion and lytic activity upon stimulation with each of their cognate antigens, although some reciprocal inhibition was observed. Murinisation of the CCT6A(m) TCR increased and prolonged its expression and increased the lytic capacity of the dual-specific T cells. Taken together, we generated functional, dual-specific CD8(+) T cells directed against a common melanoma-antigen and an individually mutated antigen for the use in personalised adoptive T-cell therapy of melanoma. The intended therapy would involve repetitive injections of the RNA-transfected cells to overcome the transiency of TCR expression. In case of autoimmunity-related side effects, a cessation of treatment would result in a disappearance of the introduced receptors, which increases the safety of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Höfflin
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany.,b Department of Genetics ; Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg ; Erlangen , Germany.,e SH and SP share first authorship
| | - Sabrina Prommersberger
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany.,b Department of Genetics ; Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg ; Erlangen , Germany.,e SH and SP share first authorship
| | - Ugur Uslu
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany
| | - Gerold Schuler
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany
| | - Christopher W Schmidt
- c Cancer Immunotherapy Laboratory; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute ; Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
| | - Volker Lennerz
- d Dept. Internal Medicine III ; Universitätsmedizin der Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz ; Mainz , Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany.,f JD and NS share senior authorship
| | - Niels Schaft
- a Department of Dermatology ; Universitätsklinikum Erlangen ; Erlangen , Germany.,f JD and NS share senior authorship
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13
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Shasha D, Walker BD. Lessons to be Learned from Natural Control of HIV - Future Directions, Therapeutic, and Preventive Implications. Front Immunol 2013; 4:162. [PMID: 23805139 PMCID: PMC3691556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating data generated from persons who naturally control HIV without the need for antiretroviral treatment has led to significant insights into the possible mechanisms of durable control of AIDS virus infection. At the center of this control is the HIV-specific CD8 T cell response, and the basis for this CD8-mediated control is gradually being revealed. Genome wide association studies coupled with HLA sequence data implicate the nature of the HLA-viral peptide interaction as the major genetic factor modulating durable control of HIV, but host genetic factors account for only around 20% of the variability in control. Other factors including specific functional characteristics of the TCR clonotypes generated in vivo, targeting of vulnerable regions of the virus that lead to fitness impairing mutations, immune exhaustion, and host restriction factors that limit HIV replication all have been shown to additionally contribute to control. Moreover, emerging data indicate that the CD8+ T cell response may be critical for attempts to purge virus infected cells following activation of the latent reservoir, and thus lessons learned from elite controllers (ECs) are likely to impact the eradication agenda. On-going efforts are also needed to understand and address the role of immune activation in disease progression, as it becomes increasingly clear that durable immune control in ECs comes at a cost. Taken together, the research achievements in the attempt to unlock the mechanisms behind natural control of HIV will continue to be an important source of insights and ideas in the continuous search after an effective HIV vaccine, and for the attempts to achieve a sterilizing or functional cure in HIV positive patients with progressive infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Shasha
- The Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard , Cambridge, MA , USA
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14
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Hao PP, Zhang XB, Luo W, Zhou CY, Wen Q, Yang Z, Liu SD, Jiang ZM, Zhou MQ, Jin Q, Ma L. Development of CD8 +
T cells expressing two distinct receptors specific for MTB and HIV-1 peptides. J Cell Mol Med 2013. [PMCID: PMC3823179 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune response in individuals co-infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and the human immunodeficiency virus (MTB/HIV) gradually deteriorates, particularly in the cellular compartment. Adoptive transfer of functional effector T cells can confer protective immunity to immunodeficient MTB/HIV co-infected recipients. However, few such effector T cells exist in vivo, and their isolation and amplification to sufficient numbers is difficult. Therefore, enhancing immune responses against both pathogens is critical for treating MTB/HIV co-infected patients. One approach is adoptive transfer of T cell receptor (TCR) gene-modified T cells for the treatment of MTB/HIV co-infections because lymphocyte numbers and their functional avidity is significantly increased by TCR gene transfer. To generate bispecific CD8+ T cells, MTB Ag85B199–207 peptide-specific TCRs (MTB/TCR) and HIV-1 Env120–128 peptide-specific TCRs (HIV/TCR) were isolated and introduced into CD8+ T cells simultaneously using a retroviral vector. To avoid mispairing among exogenous and endogenous TCRs, and to improve the function and stability of the introduced TCRs, several strategies were employed, including introducing mutations in the MTB/TCR constant (C) regions, substituting part of the HIV/TCR C regions with CD3ζ, and linking gene segments with three different 2A peptides. Results presented in this report suggest that the engineered T cells possessed peptide-specific specificity resulting in cytokine production and cytotoxic activity. This is the first report describing the generation of engineered T cells specific for two different pathogens and provides new insights into TCR gene therapy for the treatment of immunocompromised MTB/HIV co-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Pei Hao
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Xiao-Bing Zhang
- Institute of Pathogen Biology; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College; Beijing China
| | - Wei Luo
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Chao-Ying Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Qian Wen
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Su-Dong Liu
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Zhen-Min Jiang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Ming-Qian Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
| | - Qi Jin
- Institute of Pathogen Biology; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College; Beijing China
| | - Li Ma
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; School of Biotechnology; Southern Medical University; Guangzhou China
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