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Hao L, Li S, Ye F, Wang H, Zhong Y, Zhang X, Hu X, Huang X. The current status and future of targeted-immune combination for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1418965. [PMID: 39161764 PMCID: PMC11330771 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1418965] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers and the third leading cause of death worldwide. surgery, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), systemic therapy, local ablation therapy, radiotherapy, and targeted drug therapy with agents such as sorafenib. However, the tumor microenvironment of liver cancer has a strong immunosuppressive effect. Therefore, new treatments for liver cancer are still necessary. Immune checkpoint molecules, such as programmed death-1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), along with high levels of immunosuppressive cytokines, induce T cell inhibition and are key mechanisms of immune escape in HCC. Recently, immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as monotherapy or in combination with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anti-angiogenesis drugs, chemotherapy agents, and topical therapies has offered great promise in the treatment of liver cancer. In this review, we discuss the latest advances in ICIs combined with targeted drugs (targeted-immune combination) and other targeted-immune combination regimens for the treatment of patients with advanced HCC (aHCC) or unresectable HCC (uHCC), and provide an outlook on future prospects. The literature reviewed spans the last five years and includes studies identified using keywords such as "hepatocellular carcinoma," "immune checkpoint inhibitors," "targeted therapy," "combination therapy," and "immunotherapy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Hao
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shenghao Li
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fanghang Ye
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxin Zhong
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhang
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaopeng Huang
- Department of Urology/Andrology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Aydın E, Tokat ÜM, Adibi A, Özgü E, Bilgiç ŞN, Demiray M. Case report: Precision guided reactive cancer management: molecular complete response in heavily pretreated metastatic CRC by dual immunotherapy and sorafenib. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1405170. [PMID: 39011472 PMCID: PMC11246968 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1405170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Metastatic colon adenocarcinoma presents significant challenges in treatment, particularly when resistant to standard therapies. Precision oncology, guided by multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTBs), offers a promising way for individualized therapeutic approaches. Integration of comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) and minimal residual disease (MRD) testing strengthens treatment decision-making, yet challenges persist in identifying and overcoming resistance mechanisms. FLT3 amplification can be one of those resistance/escape mechanisms that needs to be targeted. Case presentation This case report presents a 58-year-old male diagnosed with metastatic colon adenocarcinoma with liver metastasis, resistant to conventional treatments. Utilizing CGP and MRD testing, our multidisciplinary MTB identified a complex mutational profile, including APC, DAXX, TP53 mutations, and CDK8 and FLT3 amplifications. With a tumor mutational burden of 10 muts/mb and TPS, CPS scores of 0, immunotherapy was considered, employing dual immune checkpoint inhibitors alongside mebendazole and Lenvatinib targeting the WNT and VEGF/angiogenesis pathways. MRD testing revealed early treatment failure. Re-evaluation identified high copied FLT3 amplification (62 copies) as a resistance mechanism, prompting modification to incorporate sorafenib and dual immunotherapy with mebendazole. Subsequent MRD assessments and radiological scans demonstrated a remarkable therapeutic response, with sustained efficacy and absence of detectable residual disease. Conclusion This case highlights the successful application of precision oncology principles, facilitated by dynamic MTB-guided treatment strategies. Integration of MRD testing provided early detection of treatment inefficacy, allowing for timely intervention and adaptation of the treatment plan. Additionally, the case highlights the educational value of rare molecular alterations, emphasizing continual learning and refinement of treatment approaches in precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esranur Aydın
- Precision Oncology Center, Medicana Health Group, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ünal Metin Tokat
- Precision Oncology Center, Medicana Health Group, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ashkan Adibi
- Precision Oncology Center, Medicana Health Group, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Basic Oncology, Division of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Oncology, University of Istanbul, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Eylül Özgü
- Precision Oncology Center, Medicana Health Group, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Mutlu Demiray
- Precision Oncology Center, Medicana Health Group, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Dawood ZS, Brown ZJ, Alaimo L, Lima HA, Shaikh C, Katayama ES, Munir MM, Moazzam Z, Endo Y, Woldesenbet S, Pawlik TM. Comparison of tumor response and outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after multimodal treatment including immune checkpoint inhibitors - a systematic review and meta-analysis. HPB (Oxford) 2024; 26:618-629. [PMID: 38369433 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE), and radiotherapy to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been well-defined. We performed a meta-analysis to characterize tumor response and survival associated with multimodal treatment of HCC. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Medline, Scopus, and CINAHL databases were searched (1990-2022). Random-effect meta-analysis was conducted to compare efficacy of treatment modalities. Odds ratios (OR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were reported. RESULTS Thirty studies (4170 patients) met inclusion criteria. Triple therapy regimen (ICI + TKI + TACE) had the highest overall disease control rate (DCR) (87%, 95% CI 83-91), while ICI + radiotherapy had the highest objective response rate (ORR) (72%, 95% CI 54%-89%). Triple therapy had a higher DCR than ICI + TACE (OR 4.49, 95% CI 2.09-9.63), ICI + TKI (OR 3.08, 95% CI 1.63-5.82), and TKI + TACE (OR 2.90, 95% CI 1.61-5.20). Triple therapy demonstrated improved overall survival versus ICI + TKI (SMD 0.72, 95% CI 0.37-1.07) and TKI + TACE (SMD 1.13, 95% CI 0.70-1.48) (both p < 0.05). Triple therapy had a greater incidence of adverse events (AEs) compared with ICI + TKI (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.29-0.91; p = 0.02), but no difference in AEs versus ICI + TACE or TKI + TACE (both p > 0.05). CONCLUSION The combination of ICIs, TKIs and TACE demonstrated superior tumor response and survival and should be considered for select patients with advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaiba S Dawood
- Medical College, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - Zachary J Brown
- Department of Surgery, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA
| | - Laura Alaimo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Henrique A Lima
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chanza Shaikh
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Erryk S Katayama
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Muhammad M Munir
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Zorays Moazzam
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yutaka Endo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Selamawit Woldesenbet
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Duan XP, Qin BD, Jiao XD, Liu K, Wang Z, Zang YS. New clinical trial design in precision medicine: discovery, development and direction. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:57. [PMID: 38438349 PMCID: PMC10912713 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01760-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the era of precision medicine, it has been increasingly recognized that individuals with a certain disease are complex and different from each other. Due to the underestimation of the significant heterogeneity across participants in traditional "one-size-fits-all" trials, patient-centered trials that could provide optimal therapy customization to individuals with specific biomarkers were developed including the basket, umbrella, and platform trial designs under the master protocol framework. In recent years, the successive FDA approval of indications based on biomarker-guided master protocol designs has demonstrated that these new clinical trials are ushering in tremendous opportunities. Despite the rapid increase in the number of basket, umbrella, and platform trials, the current clinical and research understanding of these new trial designs, as compared with traditional trial designs, remains limited. The majority of the research focuses on methodologies, and there is a lack of in-depth insight concerning the underlying biological logic of these new clinical trial designs. Therefore, we provide this comprehensive review of the discovery and development of basket, umbrella, and platform trials and their underlying logic from the perspective of precision medicine. Meanwhile, we discuss future directions on the potential development of these new clinical design in view of the "Precision Pro", "Dynamic Precision", and "Intelligent Precision". This review would assist trial-related researchers to enhance the innovation and feasibility of clinical trial designs by expounding the underlying logic, which be essential to accelerate the progression of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Peng Duan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bao-Dong Qin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Jiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan-Sheng Zang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Yang W, Li X, He J, Xuan Q, Si H, Yao W. Efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with anti-VEGF therapy in the treatment of unresectable or advanced liver cancer: a systematic review. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:770-779. [PMID: 37228221 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2215404] [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: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effects and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with anti-VEGF therapy for the treatment of unresectable or advanced liver cancer. METHOD Related databases were searched from inception to December 2022 to identify randomized controlled studies and clinical trials that evaluated the combination of ICIs and anti-VEGF therapy for the treatment of unresectable liver cancer. The outcome index was extracted and analyzed by RevMan5.4.ResultsA total of 8 clinical trials were included. In terms of efficacy, the intervention group had longer OS and PFS for unresectable or advanced liver cancer than the control group. In terms of safety, (1) Adverse events of all grades showed that the combination treatment led to significantly higher risks of urinary system disorders, cardiovascular system disorder, blood system disorders and liver dysfunction than the control treatment. Compared with monotherapy, the combination treatment led to lower risks of gastrointestinal disorders. (2) Adverse events above grade 3 showed that, compared with the control treatment, the combination treatment led to significantly higher risks of urinary system disorders, blood systeam disorders, cardiovascular system disorders and liver dysfunction. Additionally, compared with monotherapy, the combination treatment led to significantly lower risks of gastrointestinal disorders. CONCLUSIONS ICIs combined with anti-VEGF therapy exerts significant clinical effects in patients with unresectable or advanced liver cancer, can prolong the survival of these patients and can improve their quality of life. However, clinical attention should be given to the occurrence of adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jiana He
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Qingqing Xuan
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Haiyan Si
- Department of Gastroenterology, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Weifen Yao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhuji, Zhuji, Zhejiang, P.R. China
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6
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Li H, Wang J, Zhang G, Kuang D, Li Y, He X, Xing C, Wang Y, Shi M, Han X, Ren J, Duan X. Transarterial chemoembolization combined donafenib with/without PD-1 for unresectable HCC in a multicenter retrospective study. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277329. [PMID: 38090566 PMCID: PMC10711098 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277329] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & aims This multicenter retrospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with donafenib and a programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor (TACE+DP) and TACE combined with donafenib (TACE+D) for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). Methods The clinical data of 388 patients with uHCC who received TACE+DP or TACE+D as first-line treatment at six Chinese academic centers from July 2021 to July 2022 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Patients in the TACE+DP group received an intravenous administration of a PD-1 inhibitor every three weeks and oral donafenib (0.2 g) twice daily until intolerable toxicity or disease progression. Patients in the TACE+D group received the same dose of donafenib for 3-5 days after TACE. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS)were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. The tumor response was compared between the two groups according to modified RECIST criteria. Adverse events were also analyzed between the two groups. Results The TACE+D group included 157 patients and the TACE+DP group included 166 patients. Patients in the TACE+DP group had a longer median OS (18.1 vs. 13.2 months, P<0.001) and longer median PFS (10.6 vs. 7.9 months, P<0.001) than those in the TACE+D group. Patients in the TACE+DP group achieved a greater objective response rate (ORR; 50.6% vs. 41.4%, P=0.019) and greater disease control rate (DCR) (89.2% vs. 82.8%, P=0.010) than those in the TACE+D group. No significant differences were found in the incidence or severity of adverse events between the TACE+DP and TACE+D groups (any grade: 92.9% vs. 94.6%, P=0.270; grade 3 or 4: 33.8% vs. 37.3%, P=0.253). Conclusion With favorable safety and tolerability, TACE combined with donafenib and PD-1 inhibitors significantly improved PFS, OS, and ORR compared to TACE combined with donafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiacheng Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Guokun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Donglin Kuang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yanliang Li
- Department of Interventional and Oncology, Dengzhou People's Hospital, Nanyang, Henan, China
| | - Xiang He
- Department of Medical Imaging, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Cheng Xing
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhoukou Central Hospital, Zhoukou, Henan, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Interventional Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Ming Shi
- Department of Radiology, The Second Hospital of Xingtai, Xingtai, Hebei, China
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jianzhuang Ren
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xuhua Duan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Chen C, Hernandez JC, Uthaya Kumar DB, Machida T, Tahara SM, El‐Khoueiry A, Li M, Punj V, Swaminathan SK, Kirtane A, Chen Y, Panyam J, Machida K. Profiling of Circulating Tumor Cells for Screening of Selective Inhibitors of Tumor-Initiating Stem-Like Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206812. [PMID: 36949364 PMCID: PMC10190641 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
A critical barrier to effective cancer therapy is the improvement of drug selectivity, toxicity, and reduced recurrence of tumors expanded from tumor-initiating stem-like cells (TICs). The aim is to identify circulating tumor cell (CTC)-biomarkers and to identify an effective combination of TIC-specific, repurposed federal drug administration (FDA)-approved drugs. Three different types of high-throughput screens targeting the TIC population are employed: these include a CD133 (+) cell viability screen, a NANOG expression screen, and a drug combination screen. When combined in a refined secondary screening approach that targets Nanog expression with the same FDA-approved drug library, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor(s) combined with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) demonstrate the highest efficacy for inhibition of TIC growth in vitro and in vivo. Addition of immune checkpoint inhibitor further decreases recurrence and extends PDX mouse survival. RNA-seq analysis of TICs reveals that combined drug treatment reduces many Toll-like receptors (TLR) and stemness genes through repression of the lncRNA MIR22HG. This downregulation induces PTEN and TET2, leading to loss of the self-renewal property of TICs. Thus, CTC biomarker analysis would predict the prognosis and therapy response to this drug combination. In general, biomarker-guided stratification of HCC patients and TIC-targeted therapy should eradicate TICs to extend HCC patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia‐Lin Chen
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- Present address:
Department of Life Sciences & Institute of Genome SciencesNational Yang Ming Chiao Tung University110TaipeiTaiwan
| | - Juan Carlos Hernandez
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- California State UniversityChannel IslandsCamarilloCAUSA
| | - Dinesh Babu Uthaya Kumar
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Tatsuya Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Stanley M. Tahara
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Anthony El‐Khoueiry
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of Southern CaliforniaKeck School of MedicineLos AngelesCA90033USA
| | - Meng Li
- Norris Medical Library2003 Zonal AveLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | - Vasu Punj
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and Norris Comprehensive Cancer CenterLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | | | - Ameya Kirtane
- Department of PharmaceuticsUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN55455USA
| | - Yibu Chen
- Norris Medical Library2003 Zonal AveLos AngelesCA90089USA
| | - Jayanth Panyam
- Department of PharmaceuticsUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN55455USA
| | - Keigo Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCA90033USA
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and CirrhosisLos AngelesCA90033USA
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Wei S, Wei F, Li M, Yang Y, Zhang J, Li C, Wang J. Target immune components to circumvent sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114798. [PMID: 37121146 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114798] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, has been approved for cancer treatment for decades, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although sorafenib produced substantial clinical benefits in the initial stage, a large proportion of cancer patients acquired drug resistance in subsequent treatment, which always disturbs clinical physicians. Cumulative evidence unraveled the underlying mechanism of sorafenib, but few reports focused on the role of immune subpopulations, since the immunological rationale of sorafenib resistance has not yet been defined. Here, we reviewed the immunoregulatory effects of sorafenib on the tumor microenvironment and emphasized the potential immunological mechanisms of therapeutic resistance to sorafenib. Moreover, we also summarized the clinical outcomes and ongoing trials in combination of sorafenib with immunotherapy, highlighted the immunotherapeutic strategies to improve sorafenib efficacy, and put forward several prospective questions aimed at guiding future research in overcoming sorafenib resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhua Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fenghua Wei
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- R & D Management Department, China National Biotec Group, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
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Tang Q, Wu D, Huang H, Fang H, Wu Y, Liu F, Li N. Adverse events of PD-(L)1 inhibitors plus anti-VEGF(R) agents compared with PD-(L)1 inhibitors alone for cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1093194. [PMID: 37180706 PMCID: PMC10166877 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1093194] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Anti-PD-(L)1 antibody monotherapy or in combination with VEGF(R) blockade has been applied widely for cancer treatment. Whether combination therapy increases irAEs still remains controversial. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis comparing PD-(L)1 and VEGF(R) blockade combination therapy with PD-(L)1 inhibitors alone was performed. Phase II or III randomized clinical trials reporting irAEs or trAEs were included. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021287603. Results: Overall, 77 articles were included in the meta-analysis. A total of 31 studies involving 8,638 participants were pooled and an incidence for PD-(L)1 inhibitor monotherapy with any grade and grade ≥3 irAEs of 0.25 (0.20, 0.32) and 0.06 (0.05, 0.07), respectively, were reported. Two studies with 863 participants pooled for PD-(L)1 and VEGF(R) blockade showed that an incidence of any grade and grade ≥3 irAEs were 0.47 (0.30, 0.65) and 0.11 (0.08, 0.16), respectively. Regarding pairwise comparisons for irAEs, only one study was included, indicating no significant difference between the two regimens in terms of colitis, hyperthyroidism, and hypothyroidism for any grade and grade ≥3, while there was a trend of higher incidence for any grade hyperthyroidism under the combination therapy. The incidence of reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation (RCCEP) was as high as 0.80 under camrelizumab monotherapy. Conclusion: Total incidences of any grade and grade ≥3 irAEs were higher in the combination treatment group. Direct comparisons indicated no significant difference between the two regimens for any grade and grade ≥3 specific irAEs. RCCEP and thyroid disorders need to be paid attention to clinically. Moreover, trials with direct comparisons are needed and the safety profiles of the two regimens should be further explored. Exploration of the mechanism of action and regulatory management of adverse events should be enhanced. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=287603, identifier CRD42021287603.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyu Tang
- Clinical Trials Center, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dawei Wu
- Clinical Trials Center, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huiyao Huang
- Clinical Trials Center, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Fang
- Clinical Trials Center, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Phase I Clinical Trails Center, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Funan Liu
- Phase I Clinical Trails Center, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ning Li
- Clinical Trials Center, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Zhang L, Feng J, Kuang T, Chai D, Qiu Z, Deng W, Dong K, Zhao K, Wang W. Blood biomarkers predict outcomes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with immune checkpoint Inhibitors: A pooled analysis of 44 retrospective sudies. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110019. [PMID: 36933492 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted the first meta-analysis to identify the predictive significance of baseline blood biomarkers (such as neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), early alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) response, albumin-bilirubin (ALBI), AFP, platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), C-reactive protein (CRP), protein induced by vitamin K absence II (PIVKA-II), and lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR)) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). METHODS Eligible articles were retrieved using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar by November 24, 2022. Clinical outcomes were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and hyperprogressive disease (HPD). RESULTS A total of 44 articles with 5322 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results demonstrated that patients with high NLR levels had significantly poorer OS (HR: 1.951, P < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 1.632, P < 0.001), lower ORR (OR: 0.484, P < 0.001) and DCR (OR: 0.494, P = 0.027), and higher HPD (OR: 8.190, P < 0.001). The patients with high AFP levels had shorter OS (HR: 1.689, P < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 1.380, P < 0.001), and lower DCR (OR: 0.440, P < 0.001) than those with low AFP levels, however, there was no difference in ORR (OR: 0.963, P = 0.933). We also found that early AFP response was correlated with better OS (HR: 0.422, P < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 0.385, P < 0.001), higher ORR (OR: 7.297, P < 0.001) and DCR (OR: 13.360, P < 0.001) compared to non-responders. Besides, a high ALBI grade was significantly related to shorter OS (HR: 2.440, P = 0.009) and PFS (HR: 1.373, P = 0.022), lower ORR (OR: 0.618, P = 0.032) and DCR (OR: 0.672, P = 0.049) than those with an ALBI grade 1. CONCLUSION The NLR, early AFP response, and ALBI were useful predictors of outcomes in HCC patients treated with ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiarui Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Tianrui Kuang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongqi Chai
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhendong Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenhong Deng
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Keshuai Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Kailiang Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China.
| | - Weixing Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China.
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Evaluating the Benefits of TACE Combined with Lenvatinib Plus PD-1 Inhibitor for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus. Adv Ther 2023; 40:1686-1704. [PMID: 36805422 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-023-02449-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with lenvatinib plus programmed death (PD)-1 inhibitor (TACE-L-P) versus TACE combined with sorafenib plus PD-1 inhibitor (TACE-S-P) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). METHODS The clinical data of patients with HCC and PVTT treated with TACE-L-P or TACE-S-P from January 2018 to March 2022 were collected. The Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1 and modified RECIST (mRECIST) standard were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect. The progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of the two groups were compared. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment to detect the changes of biochemical indicators, and the adverse events (AEs) related to treatment were recorded. RESULTS A total of 165 patients were included in the study, including 80 patients receiving TACE-L-P treatment and 85 patients receiving TACE-S-P. Patients in the TACE-L-P group had longer median OS (21.7 months vs. 15.6 months, P = 0.0027), longer median PFS (6.3 months vs. 3.2 months, P < 0.0001), higher objective response rate (41.25% vs. 30.59%, P = 0.008), and higher disease control rate (86.25% vs. 62.35%, P = 0.008) than those in the TACE-S-P group. Multivariate analysis of the TACE-L-P group showed that VP classification of PVTT, Child-Pugh grade, interleukin-17 (IL-17), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independent factors significantly affecting patients' OS (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence and severity of AEs between the two groups. CONCLUSION TACE-L-P treatment can improve the survival of patients with HCC and PVTT with an acceptable safety, but higher inflammatory indicators will affect the therapeutic effect.
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12
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Real-World Effectiveness of Sorafenib versus Lenvatinib Combined with PD-1 Inhibitors in Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030854. [PMID: 36765812 PMCID: PMC9913272 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitors (MTKIs) exert a synergistic effect and are effective in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). However, precise data regarding the real-world clinical applications of these combination therapies in uHCC are lacking. This study compared the treatment efficacy of sorafenib versus lenvatinib in combination with programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitors in patients with uHCC in a clinical setting. Among 208 patients with uHCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors, 88 were administered with ICIs in combination with sorafenib or lenvatinib. The treatment response and survival outcomes were evaluated. Predictors of survival were assessed by multivariate analysis. A total of 49 patients were treated with PD-1 inhibitors combined with sorafenib, and 39 patients were treated with PD-1 inhibitors combined with lenvatinib. The lenvatinib group exhibited a stronger objective response rate (ORR) (20.51% vs. 16.33%) and had a higher disease control rate (41.03% vs. 28.57%) than did the sorafenib group. The median overall survival was longer in the lenvatinib group than the sorafenib group (13.1 vs. 7.8 months; hazard ratio = 0.39, p = 0.017). The incidence of treatment-related adverse events was similar. PD-1 inhibitors combined with lenvatinib can be a feasible treatment strategy for HCC patients receiving MTKI-based combination therapy. PD-1 inhibitors combined with lenvatinib resulted in more favorable survival outcomes without increased toxic effects compared with PD-1 inhibitors with sorafenib. Additional larger-scale and prospective studies should be conducted to verify the study results.
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Lei J, Yang S, Chen B, Zhang L, Yan T, Yang G, Chen Y, Li Y, Lu Y, Zuo S. Efficacy and Safety of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Alone or Combination with Programmed Death-1 Inhibitors in Treating of Hepatitis C-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:357-367. [PMID: 36891505 PMCID: PMC9987323 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s392347] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) combined with programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor is a potential treatment modality for patients with HCV-related unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). Methods The participants of the present work included the patients having HCV-related uHCC who were treated with TKI monotherapy (TKI group) or TKI combined with PD-1 inhibitors therapy (combination group) in our center between June 2018 and June 2021. In addition, the patients were classified into RNA-positive and RNA-negative groups based on whether or not the baseline HCV RNA was detectable. The overall survival (OS) was used as the primary efficacy endpoint, while progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR) were used as secondary endpoints. The adverse events were recorded and evaluated. Results Among the 67 patients contained this work, 43 patients were classified into the TKI group, while 24 patients formed the combination group. In relative to the TKI group, the combination group presented notably better median OS (21 months vs 13 months, p = 0.043) and median PFS (8 months vs 5 months, p = 0.005). No evident differences were observed between the two groups in terms of the DCR (58.1% vs 79.2%, p = 0.080), ORR (13.9% vs 25.0%, p = 0.425) and the incidence of grade 3-4 adverse events (34.8% vs 33.3%, p = 1.000). In addition, there existed no obvious difference between the RNA-positive group and RNA-negative group in terms of median OS (14 months vs 19 months, p = 0.578) and median PFS (4 months vs 6 months, p = 0.238). Conclusion The patients having HCV-related uHCC after being treated with the TKI and PD-1 inhibitor combination therapy exhibited a better prognosis and manageable toxicity compared to the patients who underwent TKI monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Lei
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Sibo Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowen Chen
- 302 Clinical Medical School, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Linzhi Zhang
- Comprehensive Liver Cancer Center, the 5th Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Yan
- Comprehensive Liver Cancer Center, the 5th Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gangqi Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Chen
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinyin Li
- Comprehensive Liver Cancer Center, the 5th Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinying Lu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China.,Comprehensive Liver Cancer Center, the 5th Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi Zuo
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
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Xian F, Wu C, Zhang G, Xu G. Efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors combined anti-angiogenic therapy in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31479. [PMID: 36343054 PMCID: PMC9646576 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with antiangiogenic agents in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search of articles published between the establishment of the database and February 2022. Data were extracted and analyzed using STATA 14.0. RESULTS Six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (980 patients for combination therapy and 565 patients for monotherapy) and 5 single-arm studies (246 patients for ICIs combination therapy) were enrolled. The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 26% and 70%, respectively, after ICIs combination therapy. Compared with monotherapy in RCTs, ICIs combination therapy resulted in higher progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), but also increased the incidence of adverse events (AEs). Increased incidences of fatigue, hypertension, hyperbilirubinemia, proteinuria, and nausea were more common after ICIs combination therapy. CONCLUSION The analysis results reveal that ICI-combined anti-angiogenesis therapy has higher efficacy than either ICIs or anti-angiogenesis options for unresectable HCC, but it is necessary to manage the AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xian
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital, Nanchong, China
| | - Cailiang Wu
- Department of Pathology, Nanchong Central Hospital, Nanchong, China
| | - Guojun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital, Nanchong, China
| | - Guohui Xu
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Guohui Xu, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China (e-mail: )
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Cheng CC, Ho AS, Peng CL, Chang J, Sie ZL, Wang CL, Chen YL, Chen CY. Sorafenib suppresses radioresistance and synergizes radiotherapy-mediated CD8 + T cell activation to eradicate hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109110. [PMID: 36037651 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) is applied to eradicate tumors in the clinic. However, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exhibits resistance against RT. It is demonstrated that RT directly inhibits tumor growth but which induces type I interferons (IFNs) expression to phosphorylate STATs and increase STATs-downstream PD-L1 levels in the survival tumor cells. Since sorafenib is capable of suppressing STATs, we, therefore, hypothesize that sorafenib suppresses IFNs-mediated radioresistance and PD-L1 in the residual tumor cells and may synergistically enhance RT-mediated reactivation of CD8+ T immunological activity to eradicate HCC cells. We found that combined RT, sorafenib, and PBMCs significantly suppress the colony formation in the HCC cells, whereas CD8+ T cells expressed high granzyme B (GZMB) and perforin (PRF1) in co-cultured with RT-treated HCC cells. We demonstrated RT significantly inhibited HCC cell viability but induced IFNα and IL-6 expression in the RT-treated HCC cells, resulting in immune checkpoint PD-L1 and anti-apoptosis MCL1 and BCL2 overexpression in the non-RT HCC cells. We found that sorafenib decreased RT-PLC5 medium (RT-PLC5-m)-mediated cell growth by suppressing IFNα- and IL-6-mediated STAT1 and STAT3 phosphorylation. Sorafenib also reduced IFNα-mediated PD-L1 levels in HCC cells. Meanwhile, RT-PLC5-m reactivated CD8+ T cells and non-CD8+ PBMCs, resulting in high IFNγ and IL-2 levels in CD8+ T cells, and cytokines IFNα, IFNγ, IL-2, and IL-6 in non-CD8+ PBMCs. Particularly, CD8+ T cells expressed higher GZMB and PRF1 and non-CD8+ PBMCs expressed higher IFNα, IFNγ, IL-2, IL-6, CXCL9, and CXCL10 in co-cultured with RT-treated HCC cells compared to parental cells. Although we demonstrated that sorafenib slightly inhibited RT-mediated GZMB and PRF1 expression in CD8+ T cells, and cytokines levels in non-CD8+ PBMCs. Based on sorafenib significantly suppressed IFNα- and IL-6-mediated radioresistance and PD-L1 expression, we demonstrated that sorafenib synergized RT and immune surveillance for suppressing PLC5 cell viability in vitro. In conclusion, this study revealed that RT induced IFNα and IL-6 expression to phosphorylate STAT1 and STAT3 by autocrine and paracrine effect, leading to radioresistance and PD-L1 overexpression in HCC cells. Sorafenib not only suppressed IFNα- and IL-6-mediated PLC5 cell growth but also inhibited IFNα-mediated PD-L1 expression, synergistically enhancing RT-mediated CD8+ T cell reactivation against HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Chia Cheng
- Radiation Biology Research Center, Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary Oncology and Interventional Bronchoscopy, Department of Thoracic Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ai-Sheng Ho
- Division of Gastroenterology, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Liang Peng
- Institute of Nuclear Energy Research, Atomic Energy Council, Taoyuan 325, Taiwan.
| | - Jungshan Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
| | - Zong-Lin Sie
- Radiation Biology Research Center, Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Liang Wang
- Division of Pulmonary Oncology and Interventional Bronchoscopy, Department of Thoracic Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Li Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yi Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan.
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