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Xu Y, Sun X, Tong Y. Interleukin-12 in multimodal tumor therapies for induction of anti-tumor immunity. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:170. [PMID: 38753073 PMCID: PMC11098992 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-12 (IL-12) can be used as an immunomodulator in cancer immunotherapy. And it has demonstrated enormous potential in inhibiting tumor growth and improving the tumor microenvironment (TME) by several preclinical models. However, some disappointing results have showed in the early clinical trials when IL-12 used as a single agent for systemic cancer therapy. Combination therapy is an effective way to significantly fulfill the great potential of IL-12 as an immunomodulator. Here, we discuss the effects of IL-12 combined with traditional methods (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery), targeted therapy or immunotherapy in the preclinical and clinical studies. Moreover, we summarized the potential mechanism underlying the anti-tumor effect of IL-12 in the combination strategies. And we also discussed the delivery methods and tumor-targeted modification of IL-12 and outlines future prospects for IL-12 as an immunomodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulian Xu
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueli Sun
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunguang Tong
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Omigen, Inc, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Narayanan S, Baburajan AP, Muhammad M, Joseph A, Vemula PK, Bhat SG. Demonstrating the immunostimulatory and cytokine-augmentation effects of bacterial ghosts on natural killer cells and Caenorhabditis Elegans. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:959-970. [PMID: 38059432 PMCID: PMC7615764 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The potential of bacteria-based immunotherapy lies in its ability to inherently enhance immune responses. However, the "liveness" of bacteria poses risks of bacterial escape, nonspecific immuno-stimulation, and ethical concerns, limiting their acceptability in immunotherapy. In this scenario, nonliving empty bacterial-cell envelopes, named bacterial ghosts (BGs), have emerged as immuno-stimulants with the potential to side-step the limitations of live bacterial therapies. This study demonstrates the capability of BGs in modulating the functionality of NK-92 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), as well as perform as cytokine-therapy adjuvants. BGs were obtained through a pH-driven culture method, and were validated for their structural and chemical integrity via electron microscopy and spectroscopy. In NK-92 cells, BGs have shown significant immuno-stimulation by boosting the gene-expression of perforin, granzyme-B, Fas-L, and interferon-gamma by factors of 3.5-, 1.5-, 12.5-, and 8.6-folds, respectively. Combined BG and IL-12 treatment yielded a notable 10.2-fold increase in interferon-gamma protein expression in 24 h. The BGs also significantly influenced the innate immune response in C. elegans through the upregulation of lysozyme genes viz., ilys-3 (8.8-fold) and lys-2 (3.1-fold). Our investigation into the impact of BGs on natural killer cells and C. elegans highlights its potential as a valid alternative approach for new-age immunotherapy and cytokine augmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreeja Narayanan
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | | | - Mumtaz Muhammad
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Andrea Joseph
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Vemula
- Chemical Biology Approaches for Stem Cells and Therapeutics, Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Sarita Ganapathy Bhat
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, India
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3
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Węgierek-Ciura K, Mierzejewska J, Szczygieł A, Rossowska J, Wróblewska A, Świtalska M, Goszczyński TM, Szermer-Olearnik B, Pajtasz-Piasecka E. Inhibition of MC38 colon cancer growth by multicomponent chemoimmunotherapy with anti-IL-10R antibodies, HES-MTX nanoconjugate, depends on application of IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18 secreting dendritic cell vaccines. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1212606. [PMID: 37545526 PMCID: PMC10399586 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1212606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The tumor microenvironment (TME) provides a conducive environment for the growth and survival of tumors. Negative factors present in TME, such as IL-10, may limit the effectiveness of cellular vaccines based on dendritic cells, therefore, it is important to control its effect. The influence of IL-10 on immune cells can be abolished e.g., by using antibodies against the receptor for this cytokine - anti-IL-10R. Furthermore, the anticancer activity of cellular vaccines can be enhanced by modifying them to produce proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18. Additionally, an immunomodulatory dose of methotrexate and hydroxyethyl starch (HES-MTX) nanoconjugate may stimulate effector immune cells and eliminate regulatory T cells, which should enhance the antitumor action of immunotherapy based on DC vaccines. The main aim of our study was to determine whether the HES-MTX administered before immunotherapy with anti-IL-10R antibodies would change the effect of vaccines based on dendritic cells overproducing IL-12, IL-15, or IL-18. Methods The activity of modified DCs was checked in two therapeutic protocols - immunotherapy with the addition of anti-IL10R antibodies and chemoimmunotherapy with HES-MTX and anti-IL10R antibodies. The inhibition of tumor growth and the effectiveness of the therapy in inducing a specific antitumor response were determined by analyzing lymphoid and myeloid cell populations in tumor nodules, and the activity of restimulated splenocytes. Results and conclusions Using the HES-MTX nanoconjugate before immunotherapy based on multiple administrations of anti-IL-10R antibodies and cellular vaccines capable of overproducing proinflammatory cytokines IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18 created optimal conditions for the effective action of these vaccines in murine colon carcinoma MC38 model. The applied chemoimmunotherapy caused the highest inhibition of tumor growth in the group receiving DC/IL-15/IL-15Rα/TAg + DC/IL-18/TAg at the level of 72.4%. The use of cellular vaccines resulted in cytotoxic activity increase in both immuno- or chemoimmunotherapy. However, the greatest potential was observed both in tumor tissue and splenocytes obtained from mice receiving two- or three-component vaccines in the course of combined application. Thus, the designed treatment schedule may be promising in anticancer therapy.
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Kim IY, Kim HY, Song HW, Park JO, Choi YH, Choi E. Functional enhancement of exosomes derived from NK cells by IL-15 and IL-21 synergy against hepatocellular carcinoma cells: The cytotoxicity and apoptosis in vitro study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16962. [PMID: 37484408 PMCID: PMC10361042 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16962] [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: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are released by various cells, including natural killer (NK) cells and transport signaling molecules for the intercellular communication. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as primary liver cancer, is often inoperable and difficult to accurate diagnosis. Notably, the prognosis and underlying mechanisms of HCC are not fully understood. Exosomes-derived NK cells (NK-exos) express unique cytotoxic proteins with a killing ability in tumors and can easily penetrate tumor tissues to improve their targeting ability. NK cell functions, inducing cellular cytotoxicity are modulated by cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-15 and IL-21. However, the mechanisms and effects of cytokines-stimulated NK-exos for the treatment of liver cancer, including HCC, are not well known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the synergistic anti-tumor effects of NK-exos stimulated with IL-15 and IL-21 (NK-exosIL-15/21) in Hep3B cells. Our findings revealed that NK-exosIL-15/21 expressed cytotoxic proteins (perforin and granzyme B) and contained typical exosome markers (CD9 and CD63) within the size range of 100-150 nm. Moreover, we demonstrated that NK-exosIL-15/21 induced the enhancement of cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity in Hep3B cells by activating the specific pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax, cleaved caspase 3, cleaved PARP, perforin, and granzyme B) and inhibiting the anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). In summary, our results suggest that NK-exosIL-15/21 regulate strong anti-tumor effects of HCC cells, by increasing the cytotoxicity and apoptosis through the activation of specific cytotoxic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Young Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Yong Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong-woo Song
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Oh Park
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - You Hee Choi
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunpyo Choi
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
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5
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Janho Dit Hreich S, Hofman P, Vouret-Craviari V. The Role of IL-18 in P2RX7-Mediated Antitumor Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119235. [PMID: 37298187 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide despite the variety of treatments that are currently used. This is due to an innate or acquired resistance to therapy that encourages the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies to overcome the resistance. This review will focus on the role of the purinergic receptor P2RX7 in the control of tumor growth, through its ability to modulate antitumor immunity by releasing IL-18. In particular, we describe how the ATP-induced receptor activities (cationic exchange, large pore opening and NLRP3 inflammasome activation) modulate immune cell functions. Furthermore, we recapitulate our current knowledge of the production of IL-18 downstream of P2RX7 activation and how IL-18 controls the fate of tumor growth. Finally, the potential of targeting the P2RX7/IL-18 pathway in combination with classical immunotherapies to fight cancer is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Janho Dit Hreich
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
- Hospital-Related Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Valérie Vouret-Craviari
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
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6
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Chen Z, Tong L, Neo SY, Li S, Gao J, Schlisio S, Lundqvist A. CD25 bright NK cells display superior function and metabolic activity under regulatory T cell-mediated suppression. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2175517. [PMID: 36970070 PMCID: PMC10038043 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2175517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infusion of natural killer (NK) cells is an attractive therapeutic modality in patients with cancer. However, the activity of NK cells is regulated by several mechanisms operating within solid tumors. Regulatory T (Treg) cells suppress NK cell activity through various mechanisms including deprivation of IL-2 via the IL-2 receptor alpha (CD25). Here, we investigate CD25 expression on NK cells to confer persistence in Treg cells containing solid tumor models of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Compared with IL-2, stimulation with IL-15 increases the expression of CD25 resulting in enhanced response to IL-2 as evidenced by increased phosphorylation of STAT5. Compared with CD25dim NK cells, CD25bright NK cells isolated from IL-15 primed NK cells display increased proliferative and metabolic activity as well as increased ability to persist in Treg cells containing RCC tumor spheroids. These results support strategies to enrich for or selectively expand CD25bright NK cells for adoptive cellular therapy of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqing Chen
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Biology, Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Le Tong
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shi Yong Neo
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Republic of Singapore
| | - Shuijie Li
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jiwei Gao
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Schlisio
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Lundqvist
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- CONTACT Andreas Lundqvist Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna17164, Sweden
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7
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Gao W, Pan J, Pan J. Antitumor Activities of Interleukin-12 in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225592. [PMID: 36428682 PMCID: PMC9688694 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most common and serious malignant tumor among skin cancers. Although more and more studies have revolutionized the systematic treatment of advanced melanoma in recent years, access to innovative drugs for melanoma is still greatly restricted in many countries. IL-12 produced mainly by antigen-presenting cells regulates the immune response and affects the differentiation of T cells in the process of antigen presentation. However, the dose-limited toxicity of IL-12 limits its clinical application. The present review summarizes the basic biological functions and toxicity of IL-12 in the treatment of melanoma and discusses the clinical application of IL-12, especially the combination of IL-12 with immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines and other therapeutic drugs. We also summarize several promising technological approaches such as carriers that have been developed to improve the pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety of IL-12 or IL-12 encoding plasmid application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Gao
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Jun Pan
- Institute of Cancer, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Jianping Pan
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310015, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0571-88285702
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8
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Mendoza-Valderrey A, Alvarez M, De Maria A, Margolin K, Melero I, Ascierto ML. Next Generation Immuno-Oncology Strategies: Unleashing NK Cells Activity. Cells 2022; 11:3147. [PMID: 36231109 PMCID: PMC9562848 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immunotherapy has become a powerful therapeutic option against multiple malignancies. The unique capacity of natural killer (NK) cells to attack cancer cells without antigen specificity makes them an optimal immunotherapeutic tool for targeting tumors. Several approaches are currently being pursued to maximize the anti-tumor properties of NK cells in the clinic, including the development of NK cell expansion protocols for adoptive transfer, the establishment of a favorable microenvironment for NK cell activity, the redirection of NK cell activity against tumor cells, and the blockage of inhibitory mechanisms that constrain NK cell function. We here summarize the recent strategies in NK cell-based immunotherapies and discuss the requirement to further optimize these approaches for enhancement of the clinical outcome of NK cell-based immunotherapy targeting tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Mendoza-Valderrey
- Rosalie and Harold Rae Brown Cancer Immunotherapy Research Program, Borstein Family Melanoma Program, Translational Immunology Department, Saint John’s Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Maite Alvarez
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea De Maria
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, 16126 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Kim Margolin
- Borstein Family Melanoma Program, Saint John’s Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Program for Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Libera Ascierto
- Rosalie and Harold Rae Brown Cancer Immunotherapy Research Program, Borstein Family Melanoma Program, Translational Immunology Department, Saint John’s Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
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9
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Picard LK, Claus M, Fasbender F, Watzl C. Human NK cells responses are enhanced by CD56 engagement. Eur J Immunol 2022; 52:1441-1451. [PMID: 35775327 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202249868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are important innate lymphocytes for effective immune responses against intracellular pathogens and tumors. CD56 is a well-known marker for human NK cells, but there is very limited information about a functional role of this surface receptor. Here we show that engagement of CD56 can induce NK cell activation resulting in degranulation, IFN-γ secretion and morphological changes, making CD56 a potential co-activating receptor in NK cells. Interestingly, this effect was only observed in cytokine pre-activated and not in freshly isolated human NK cells, demonstrating that NK cell reactivity upon CD56 engagement was dependent on cytokine stimulation. Inhibition of Syk, PI3K, Erk and src-family-kinases impaired CD56-mediated NK cell stimulation. Finally, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to delete CD56 from primary human NK cells. While this abolished the stimulatory effect of CD56 on pre-activated NK cells, the cytotoxic activity of NK cells against several tumor target cells was not affected by the absence of CD56. This demonstrates that the stimulating effect of CD56 on pre-activated NK cells does not have a major impact on their cytotoxic activity, but it may contribute to the function of CD56 as a fungal recognition receptor and in the NK cell developmental synapse. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Katharina Picard
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund (IfADo), Dortmund, Germany
| | - Maren Claus
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund (IfADo), Dortmund, Germany
| | - Frank Fasbender
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund (IfADo), Dortmund, Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Department for Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund (IfADo), Dortmund, Germany
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10
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The Beneficial Effect of IL-12 and IL-18 Transduced Dendritic Cells Stimulated with Tumor Antigens on Generation of an Antitumor Response in a Mouse Colon Carcinoma Model. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:7508928. [PMID: 35372586 PMCID: PMC8975686 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7508928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The main purpose of our study was to determine the effect of dendritic cell (DC) transduction with lentiviral vectors carrying sequences of il18 and/or il12 genes on the level of antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. We examined the ability of DCs to migrate to the tumor-draining lymph nodes and infiltrate tumor tissue and to activate the local and systemic antitumor response. On the 15th day, DCs genetically modified for production of IL-12 and/or IL-18 were administered peritumorally to C57BL/6 female mice with established MC38 tumors. Lymphoid organs and tumor tissue were collected from mice on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th days after a single administration of DCs for further analysis. Administration of DCs transduced for production of IL-12 alone and in combination with IL-18 increased the inflow and activity of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment and tumor-draining lymph nodes. We also found that even a single administration of such modified DCs could trigger a systemic antitumor response as well as inhibit tumor growth. Application of the developed DC-based vaccines may exert a favorable impact on stimulation of an antitumor immune response, especially if these DC vaccines are administered repeatedly.
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11
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Mikhailova V, Khokhlova E, Grebenkina P, Salloum Z, Nikolaenkov I, Markova K, Davidova A, Selkov S, Sokolov D. NK-92 cells change their phenotype and function when cocultured with IL-15, IL-18 and trophoblast cells. Immunobiology 2021; 226:152125. [PMID: 34365089 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
NK cell development is affected by their cellular microenvironment and cytokines, including IL-15 and IL-18. NK cells can differentiate in secondary lymphoid organs, liver and within the uterus in close contact with trophoblast cells. The aim was to evaluate changes in the NK cell phenotype and function in the presence of IL-15, IL-18 and JEG-3, a trophoblast cell line. When cocultured with JEG-3 cells, IL-15 caused an increase in the number of NKG2D+ NK-92 cells and the intensity of CD127 expression. IL-18 stimulates an increase in the amount of NKp44+ NK-92 cells and in the intensity of NKp44 expression by pNK in the presence of trophoblast cells. NK-92 cell cytotoxic activity against JEG-3 cells increased only in presence of IL-18. Data on changes in the cytotoxic activity of NK-92 cells against JEG-3 cells in the presence of IL-15 and IL-18 indicate the modulation of NK cell function both by the cytokine microenvironment and directly by target cells. IL-15 and IL-18 were present in conditioned media (CM) from 1st and 3rd trimester placentas. In the presence of 1st trimester CM and JEG-3 cells, NK-92 cells showed an increase in the intensity of NKG2D expression. In the presence of 3rd trimester CM and JEG-3 cells, a decrease in the expression of NKG2D by NK-92 cells was observed. Thus, culturing of NK-92 cells with JEG-3 trophoblast cells stimulated a pronounced change in the NK cell phenotype, bringing it closer to the decidual NK cell-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Mikhailova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Evgeniia Khokhlova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Polina Grebenkina
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Zeina Salloum
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Igor Nikolaenkov
- Department of Obstetrics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Kseniya Markova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Alina Davidova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Sergey Selkov
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Dmitriy Sokolov
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
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12
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Zhang M, Acklin S, Gillenwater J, Du W, Patra M, Yu H, Xu B, Yu J, Xia F. SIRT2 promotes murine melanoma progression through natural killer cell inhibition. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12988. [PMID: 34155309 PMCID: PMC8217567 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SIRT2, an NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase, has been shown to play a pivotal role in various physiological processes, however, its role in cancer is currently controversial. In recent years, SIRT2 has been described as both a tumor suppressor and oncogene with divergent expression and function in various malignancies. Using murine allograft melanoma models, our results suggest increased systemic expression of SIRT2 promotes tumor progression. In this study, SIRT2-overexpressing mice exhibited enhanced tumor growth and larger tumor volumes compared to their wild-type littermates. Mechanistically, systemic overexpression of SIRT2 reduces the number of tumor-infiltrating natural killer (NK) cells and suppresses NK cell function and proliferation within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, despite the enhancing effect of NK cell depletion on tumor volume and growth rate in wild-type littermate mice, this effect was diminished in SIRT2-overexpressing mice. Lastly, pharmacological inhibition of SIRT2 increases NK cell tumor infiltration and suppresses allograft melanoma tumor growth. The findings of this study identify a dynamic functional interaction between systemic SIRT2 and NK cell activity, which controls melanoma tumor progression. Given the recent renewed interest in NK-cell-mediated immunotherapy response, SIRT2 could present a new opportunity to mediate immunotherapy response and resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manchao Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Scarlett Acklin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - John Gillenwater
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Wuying Du
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Mousumi Patra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Bo Xu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Fen Xia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
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13
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Oyewole-Said D, Konduri V, Vazquez-Perez J, Weldon SA, Levitt JM, Decker WK. Beyond T-Cells: Functional Characterization of CTLA-4 Expression in Immune and Non-Immune Cell Types. Front Immunol 2020; 11:608024. [PMID: 33384695 PMCID: PMC7770141 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.608024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune response consists of a finely-tuned program, the activation of which must be coupled with inhibitory mechanisms whenever initiated. This ensures tight control of beneficial anti-pathogen and anti-tumor responses while preserving tissue integrity, promoting tissue repair, and safeguarding against autoimmunity. A cogent example of this binary response is in the mobilization of co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory signaling in regulating the strength and type of a T-cell response. Of particular importance is the costimulatory molecule CD28 which is countered by CTLA-4. While the role of CD28 in the immune response has been thoroughly elucidated, many aspects of CTLA-4 biology remain controversial. The expression of CD28 is largely constrained to constitutive expression in T-cells and as such, teasing out its function has been somewhat simplified by a limited and specific expression profile. The expression of CTLA-4, on the other hand, while reported predominantly in T-cells, has also been described on a diverse repertoire of cells within both lymphoid and myeloid lineages as well as on the surface of tumors. Nonetheless, the function of CTLA-4 has been mostly described within the context of T-cell biology. The focus on T-cell biology may be a direct result of the high degree of amino acid sequence homology and the co-expression pattern of CD28 and CTLA-4, which initially led to the discovery of CTLA-4 as a counter receptor to CD28 (for which a T-cell-activating role had already been described). Furthermore, observations of the outsized role of CTLA-4 in Treg-mediated immune suppression and the striking phenotype of T-cell hyperproliferation and resultant disease in CTLA-4−/− mice contribute to an appropriate T-cell-centric focus in the study of CTLA-4. Complete elucidation of CTLA-4 biology, however, may require a more nuanced understanding of its role in a context other than that of T-cells. This makes particular sense in light of the remarkable, yet limited utility of anti-CTLA-4 antibodies in the treatment of cancers and of CTLA-4-Ig in autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. By fully deducing the biology of CTLA-4-regulated immune homeostasis, bottlenecks that hinder the widespread applicability of CTLA-4-based immunotherapies can be resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilola Oyewole-Said
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vanaja Konduri
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jonathan Vazquez-Perez
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Scott A Weldon
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jonathan M Levitt
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - William K Decker
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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14
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Oladipo EK, Ajayi AF, Ariyo OE, Onile SO, Jimah EM, Ezediuno LO, Adebayo OI, Adebayo ET, Odeyemi AN, Oyeleke MO, Oyewole MP, Oguntomi AS, Akindiya OE, Olamoyegun BO, Aremu VO, Arowosaye AO, Aboderin DO, Bello HB, Senbadejo TY, Awoyelu EH, Oladipo AA, Oladipo BB, Ajayi LO, Majolagbe ON, Oyawoye OM, Oloke JK. Exploration of surface glycoprotein to design multi-epitope vaccine for the prevention of Covid-19. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2020; 21:100438. [PMID: 33043110 PMCID: PMC7533051 DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2020.100438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulation and generation of T and B cell-mediated long-term immune response are essential for the curbing of a deadly virus such as SAR-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Corona Virus 2). Immunoinformatics approach in vaccine design takes advantage of antigenic and non-allergenic epitopes present on the spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 to elicit immune responses. T cells and B cells epitopes were predicted, and the selected residues were subjected to allergenicity, antigenicity and toxicity screening which were linked by appropriate linkers to form a multi-epitope subunit vaccine. The physiochemical properties of the vaccine construct were analyzed, and the molecular weight, molecular formula, theoretical isoelectric point value, half-life, solubility score, instability index, aliphatic index and GRAVY were predicted. The vaccine structure was constructed, refined, validated, and disulfide engineered to get the best model. Molecular binding simulation and molecular dynamics simulation were carried out to predict the stability and binding affinity of the vaccine construct with TLRs. Codon acclimatization and in silico cloning were performed to confirm the vaccine expression and potency. Results obtained indicated that this novel vaccine candidate is non-toxic, capable of initiating the immunogenic response and will not induce an allergic reaction. The highest binding energy was observed in TLR4 (Toll-like Receptor 4) (-1398.1), and the least is TLR 2 (-1479.6). The steady rise in Th (T-helper) cell population with memory development was noticed, and IFN-g (Interferon gamma) was provoked after simulation. At this point, the vaccine candidate awaits animal trial to validate its efficacy and safety for use in the prevention of the novel COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elijah Kolawole Oladipo
- Department of Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Immunology and Bioinformatics, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olumuyiwa Elijah Ariyo
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Unit, Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | | | - Esther Moradeyo Jimah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Louis Odinakaose Ezediuno
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Oluwadunsin Iyanuoluwa Adebayo
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Tayo Adebayo
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Aduragbemi Noah Odeyemi
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Marvellous Oluwaseun Oyeleke
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Olawumi Elizabeth Akindiya
- Microbiology Programme, Department of Biological Science, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Victoria Oyetayo Aremu
- Reproduction and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Consult, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Nigeria
| | - Abiola O Arowosaye
- Department of Virology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Elukunbi Hilda Awoyelu
- Department of Natural Sciences, Precious Conerstone University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Adio Abayomi Oladipo
- Department of Haematology and Blood Grouping Serology, Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife Wesley Guild Hospital Wing, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Bukola Bisola Oladipo
- Department of Clinical Nursing, Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Olusola Nathaniel Majolagbe
- Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olubukola Monisola Oyawoye
- Department of Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Immunology and Bioinformatics, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Julius Kola Oloke
- Department of Natural Sciences, Precious Conerstone University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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15
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Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Rizzo S, Rotola A, Rizzo R. SARS-CoV-2 Spike 1 Protein Controls Natural Killer Cell Activation via the HLA-E/NKG2A Pathway. Cells 2020; 9:E1975. [PMID: 32859121 PMCID: PMC7563485 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells are important in the control of viral infections. However, the role of NK cells during severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has previously not been identified. Peripheral blood NK cells from SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 naïve subjects were evaluated for their activation, degranulation, and interferon-gamma expression in the presence of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins. K562 and lung epithelial cells were transfected with spike proteins and co-cultured with NK cells. The analysis was performed by flow cytometry and immune fluorescence. SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins did not alter NK cell activation in a K562 in vitro model. On the contrary, SARS-CoV-2 spike 1 protein (SP1) intracellular expression by lung epithelial cells resulted in NK cell-reduced degranulation. Further experiments revealed a concomitant induction of HLA-E expression on the surface of lung epithelial cells and the recognition of an SP1-derived HLA-E-binding peptide. Simultaneously, there was increased modulation of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A/CD94 on NK cells when SP1 was expressed in lung epithelial cells. We ruled out the GATA3 transcription factor as being responsible for HLA-E increased levels and HLA-E/NKG2A interaction as implicated in NK cell exhaustion. We show for the first time that NK cells are affected by SP1 expression in lung epithelial cells via HLA-E/NKG2A interaction. The resulting NK cells' exhaustion might contribute to immunopathogenesis in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (D.B.); (V.G.); (S.R.); (A.R.)
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16
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Chulpanova DS, Kitaeva KV, Green AR, Rizvanov AA, Solovyeva VV. Molecular Aspects and Future Perspectives of Cytokine-Based Anti-cancer Immunotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:402. [PMID: 32582698 PMCID: PMC7283917 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokine-based immunotherapy is a promising field in the cancer treatment, since cytokines, as proteins of the immune system, are able to modulate the host immune response toward cancer cell, as well as directly induce tumor cell death. Since a low dose monotherapy with some cytokines has no significant therapeutic results and a high dose treatment leads to a number of side effects caused by the pleiotropic effect of cytokines, the problem of understanding the influence of cytokines on the immune cells involved in the pro- and anti-tumor immune response remains a pressing one. Immune system cells carry CD makers on their surface which can be used to identify various populations of cells of the immune system that play different roles in pro- and anti-tumor immune responses. This review discusses the functions and specific CD markers of various immune cell populations which are reported to participate in the regulation of the immune response against the tumor. The results of research studies and clinical trials investigating the effect of cytokine therapy on the regulation of immune cell populations and their surface markers are also discussed. Current trends in the development of cancer immunotherapy, as well as the role of cytokines in combination with other therapeutic agents, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria S Chulpanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Kristina V Kitaeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Andrew R Green
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Albert A Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia.,Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Valeriya V Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
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17
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Widowati W, Jasaputra DK, Sumitro SB, Widodo MA, Mozef T, Rizal R, Kusuma HSW, Laksmitawati DR, Murti H, Bachtiar I, Faried A. Effect of interleukins (IL-2, IL-15, IL-18) on receptors activation and cytotoxic activity of natural killer cells in breast cancer cell. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:822-832. [PMID: 33163049 PMCID: PMC7609126 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i2.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Metastasis in BC is caused by immunosurveillance deficiency, such NK cell maturation, low NK activity and decreasing cytotoxicity. This study was performed to improve activating receptors and cytotoxicity of NK cells using interleukins (ILs). METHODS Human recombinant IL-2, -15, and -18 were used to induce NK cells. We measured the activating and inhibiting receptors, proliferation activity of NK cells, and the cytotoxicity of NK cells on BC cells (MCF7). The effects of ILs were tested on the NK cell receptors CD314, CD158a and CD107a with flowcytometry, proliferation at various incubation times with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxy methoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay and concentrations of TNF-α and IFN-γ by NK cells with ELISA. RESULTS ILs increased NK cell receptor levels (CD314, CD158a, and CD107a) at 24 hours of incubation. ILs increased NK cell viability, which increased with longer incubation. Moreover, ILs-induced NK cells inhibited proliferation in MCF7 cells, as well as increased TNF-α, IFN-γ, PRF1 and GzmB secretion. CONCLUSION IL-2, IL-15, and IL-18 improved activating receptors and proliferation of NK cells. IL-induced NK cells increased TNF-α, IFN-γ, PRF1 and GzmB secretion and cytotoxic activity on BC cells. High NK cell numbers increased BC cell growth inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wahyu Widowati
- Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Maranatha Christian University, Bandung 40164, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Diana K Jasaputra
- Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Maranatha Christian University, Bandung 40164, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Sutiman B Sumitro
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematic and Science, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145 East Java, Indonesia
| | - Mochammad A Widodo
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Tjandrawati Mozef
- Research Center for Chemistry, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Serpong Banten 15310, Indonesia
| | - Rizal Rizal
- Biomolecular and Biomedical Research Center, Aretha Medika Utama, Bandung 40163, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Hanna Sari W Kusuma
- Biomolecular and Biomedical Research Center, Aretha Medika Utama, Bandung 40163, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Dian R Laksmitawati
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pancasila University, Jagakarsa, Jakarta Selatan 12640, Indonesia
| | - Harry Murti
- Stem Cell and Cancer Institute, Jl A Yani no 2 Pulo Mas, Jakarta 13210, Indonesia
| | - Indra Bachtiar
- Stem Cell and Cancer Institute, Jl A Yani no 2 Pulo Mas, Jakarta 13210, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Faried
- Department of Neurosurgery and Stem Cell Working Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung 40161, West Java, Indonesia
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18
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Anderson K, Ryan N, Volpedo G, Varikuti S, Satoskar AR, Oghumu S. Immune Suppression Mediated by STAT4 Deficiency Promotes Lymphatic Metastasis in HNSCC. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3095. [PMID: 32010142 PMCID: PMC6974475 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent form of cancer with 5-years survival rates around 57%, and metastasis is a leading cause of mortality. Host-derived immunological factors that affect HNSCC tumor development and metastasis are not completely understood. We investigated the role of host-derived signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4) during experimental HNSCC using an aggressive and metastatic HNSCC cell line, LY2, which was orthotopically injected into the buccal sulcus of wild type (WT) and STAT4 deficient (Stat4-/-) BALB/c mice. Necropsies performed at terminal sacrifice revealed that Stat4-/- mice displayed comparable primary tumor growth to the WT mice. However, the rate and extent of lymph node and lung metastasis among Stat4-/- mice was significantly higher. Downstream analyses performed on primary tumors, draining lymph nodes, spleens and bone marrow revealed significant upregulation of lymphocytic immunosuppressive biomarkers as well as an accumulation of granulocytic MDSC subpopulations in draining lymph nodes of metastatic Stat4-/- mice. Further, we observed a significant decrease in TH1, TH17, and cytotoxic activity in tumor bearing Stat4-/- compared to WT mice. Our results demonstrate that STAT4 mediates resistance to HNSCC metastasis, and activation of STAT4 could potentially mitigate lymphatic metastasis in HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelvin Anderson
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Nathan Ryan
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Greta Volpedo
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Sanjay Varikuti
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Abhay R. Satoskar
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Steve Oghumu
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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19
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Villalba M, Alexia C, Bellin-Robert A, Fayd'herbe de Maudave A, Gitenay D. Non-Genetically Improving the Natural Cytotoxicity of Natural Killer (NK) Cells. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3026. [PMID: 31998309 PMCID: PMC6970430 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The innate lymphocyte lineage natural killer (NK) is now the target of multiple clinical applications, although none has received an agreement from any regulatory agency yet. Transplant of naïve NK cells has not proven efficient enough in the vast majority of clinical trials. Hence, new protocols wish to improve their medical use by producing them from stem cells and/or modifying them by genetic engineering. These techniques have given interesting results but these improvements often hide that natural killers are mainly that: natural. We discuss here different ways to take advantage of NK physiology to improve their clinical activity without the need of additional modifications except for in vitro activation and expansion and allograft in patients. Some of these tactics include combination with monoclonal antibodies (mAb), drugs that change metabolism and engraftment of specific NK subsets with particular activity. Finally, we propose to use specific NK cell subsets found in certain patients that show increase activity against a specific disease, including the use of NK cells derived from patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Villalba
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.,IRMB, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Catherine Alexia
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Delphine Gitenay
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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20
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Gil M, Kim KE. Interleukin-18 Is a Prognostic Biomarker Correlated with CD8 + T Cell and Natural Killer Cell Infiltration in Skin Cutaneous Melanoma. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8111993. [PMID: 31731729 PMCID: PMC6912818 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8111993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is a cytokine that enhances innate and adaptive immune responses. Although there are conflicting reports about the roles of IL-18 in melanoma progression, the clinical relevance of IL-18 expression has not been comprehensively studied. In this study, we investigated IL-18 expression and its correlation with patient survival and immune cell infiltration in melanoma using cancer gene expression data publicly available through various databases. IL18 mRNA expression was found to be significantly lower in melanoma tissues than normal tissues. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that IL18 expression was positively correlated with patient survival. To investigate the possible mechanisms by which IL18 expression increased patient survival, we then assessed the correlation between IL18 expression and immune cell infiltration levels. Infiltration of various immune cells, especially CD8+ T and natural killer (NK) cells, which are cytolytic effector cells, was significantly increased by IL18 expression. Additionally, the expression levels of two cytolytic molecules including perforin and granzyme B were significantly positively correlated with IL18 expression. Collectively, this study provides the first evidence that IL18 expression has prognostic value for melanoma patient survival and is strongly correlated with CD8+ T and NK cell infiltration, suggesting the role of IL-18 as a biomarker for predicting melanoma prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minchan Gil
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea;
- Department of Cosmetic Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Kyung Eun Kim
- Department of Cosmetic Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Nano-Bio Resources Center, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-02-710-9211
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21
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Key features and homing properties of NK cells in the liver are shaped by activated iNKT cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16362. [PMID: 31704965 PMCID: PMC6841958 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52666-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The contribution of natural killer (NK) cells to the clearance of hepatic viral infections is well recognized. The recently discovered heterogeneity of NK cell populations renders them interesting targets for immune interventions. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells represent a key interaction partner for hepatic NK cells. The present study addressed whether characteristics of NK cells in the liver can be shaped by targeting iNKT cells. For this, the CD1d-binding pegylated glycolipid αGalCerMPEG was assessed for its ability to modulate the features of NK cells permanently or transiently residing in the liver. In vivo administration resulted in enhanced functionality of educated and highly differentiated CD27+ Mac-1+ NK cells accompanied by an increased proliferation. Improved liver homing was supported by serum-derived and cellular factors. Reduced viral loads in a mCMV infection model confirmed the beneficial effect of NK cells located in the liver upon stimulation with αGalCerMPEG. Thus, targeting iNKT cell-mediated NK cell activation in the liver represents a promising approach for the establishment of liver-directed immune interventions.
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22
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Konjević GM, Vuletić AM, Mirjačić Martinović KM, Larsen AK, Jurišić VB. The role of cytokines in the regulation of NK cells in the tumor environment. Cytokine 2019; 117:30-40. [PMID: 30784898 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that are important effectors in the first line of defense toward transformed cells. This is mediated both by direct cytotoxic mechanisms and by production of immunoregulatory cytokines. Recent evidence has shown that NK cells also display memory, similar to the cells of the adaptive immune system. Cytokines are pivotal for the maturation, activation and survival of NK cells. Interleukins (IL)-2, IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, IL-21 and type I interferons positively regulate NK cell function, either independently or in cooperation, whereas other cytokines, such as IL-23 and IL-27, may enhance or suppress NK cell function depending on the context. In the tumor microenvironment, TGFβ, IL-10 and IL-6 suppress NK cell activity not only directly, but also indirectly, by affecting immunosuppressive cells and by antagonizing the effect of stimulatory cytokines, thereby dampening the antitumor response of NK cells and promoting subsequent tumor evasion and progression. Increased understanding of the NK cell response to cytokines has provided a better understanding of their impaired function in tumors which may aid in the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies to enhance NK cell responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordana M Konjević
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000 Beograd, Serbia
| | - Ana M Vuletić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina M Mirjačić Martinović
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Annette K Larsen
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM U938 and Sorbonne University, Kourilsky Building 1st Floor, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, 184 rue du Faubourg Saint Antoine, 75571 PARIS Cédex 12 France
| | - Vladimir B Jurišić
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, P.BOX 124, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia.
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23
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Li T, Yang Y, Song H, Li H, Cui A, Liu Y, Su L, Crispe IN, Tu Z. Activated NK cells kill hepatic stellate cells via p38/PI3K signaling in a TRAIL-involved degranulation manner. J Leukoc Biol 2019; 105:695-704. [PMID: 30748035 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2a0118-031rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells are important in regulating hepatic fibrosis via their cytotoxic killing of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). NK cells are activated by both cytokines such as IL-12 and IL-18, and innate immune stimuli such as ligation of TLRs. The secretion of IL-18 depends upon activation of the inflammasome, whereas TLRs are stimulated by microbial products. In the case of NK cells, IL-18 acts synergistically with stimulation of TLR3 to cause cell activation and cytotoxic function. In the present study, we activated NK cells to kill HSCs via IL-18 and TLR3 ligand stimulation, and dissected the signaling pathways or molecules critical for such activation or killing. We find that such activation depends on signaling via the p38/PI3K/AKT pathway, and that the activated NK cells mediate HSC death in a TRAIL-involved mechanism. As liver fibrosis is a major global health problem with no good solution, these results emphasize that the p38/PI3K/AKT pathway in NK cells may be a novel drug target to promote fibrosis regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyang Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hongxiao Song
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haijun Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - An Cui
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yanhou Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Lishan Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ian Nicholas Crispe
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Zhengkun Tu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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24
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Pahl JHW, Cerwenka A, Ni J. Memory-Like NK Cells: Remembering a Previous Activation by Cytokines and NK Cell Receptors. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2796. [PMID: 30546366 PMCID: PMC6279934 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic innate lymphoid cells serving at the front line against infection and cancer. In inflammatory microenvironments, multiple soluble and contact-dependent signals modulate NK cell responsiveness. Besides their innate cytotoxic and immunostimulatory activity, it has been uncovered in recent years that NK cells constitute a heterogeneous and versatile cell subset. Persistent memory-like NK populations that mount a robust recall response were reported during viral infection, contact hypersensitivity reactions, and after stimulation by pro-inflammatory cytokines or activating receptor pathways. In this review, we highlight recent findings on the generation, functionality, and clinical applicability of memory-like NK cells and describe common features in comparison to other recent concepts of memory NK cells. Understanding of these features will facilitate the conception and design of novel NK cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens H W Pahl
- Department for Immunobiochemistry, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medizinische Fakultät Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department for Immunobiochemistry, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medizinische Fakultät Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jing Ni
- Department for Immunobiochemistry, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medizinische Fakultät Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Innate Immunity, German Cancer Consortium, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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25
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Duggan MC, Campbell AR, McMichael EL, Opheim KS, Levine KM, Bhave N, Culbertson MC, Noel T, Yu L, Carson WE. Co-stimulation of the fc receptor and interleukin-12 receptor on human natural killer cells leads to increased expression of cd25. Oncoimmunology 2017; 7:e1381813. [PMID: 29308301 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1381813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells serve a critical role in the immune response against microbes and developing tumors. We have demonstrated that NK cells produce stimulatory cytokines (e.g., IFN-γ) in response to potent stimulation via immobilized IgG (to engage Fc receptors) and interleukin (IL)-12. CD25 is a component of the high-affinity IL-2R, which promotes NK cell activation in response to low doses of IL-2 such as those released by activated T cells. We hypothesized that stimulation of NK cells via IgG and IL-12 would enhance CD25 expression and promote NK cell anti-tumor activity in response to low-dose IL-2. It was confirmed that this dual stimulation strategy significantly enhanced NK cell CD25 expression compared to unstimulated cells or cells treated with IgG or IL-12 alone. Dual stimulated NK cells also were more responsive to low-dose IL-2. Dual stimulated NK cells subsequently treated with low-dose IL-2 (10 pg/mL) displayed enhanced intracellular signaling as indicated by increased pSTAT5 levels. IFN-γ production and cytotoxicity against K562 cells by NK cells stimulated with low-dose IL-2 was comparable to that of cells treated with high-dose IL-2 (10 ng/mL). Importantly, cells isolated from head and neck cancer patients receiving the mAb cetuximab and IL-12 on a clinical trial displayed increased CD25 expression following combination therapy compared to baseline. Altogether, these findings suggest that FcR and IL-12R co-stimulation induces expression of the high-affinity IL-2R and promotes NK cell anti-tumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C Duggan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Amanda R Campbell
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.,Medical Scientist Training Program and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Elizabeth L McMichael
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Kallan S Opheim
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Kala M Levine
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Neela Bhave
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Michelle C Culbertson
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Tiffany Noel
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Lianbo Yu
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - W E Carson
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.,Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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26
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Kantono M, Guo B. Inflammasomes and Cancer: The Dynamic Role of the Inflammasome in Tumor Development. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1132. [PMID: 28955343 PMCID: PMC5600922 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Inflammation in tumor microenvironments is not only associated with various stages of tumor development, but also has significant impacts on tumor immunity and immunotherapy. Inflammasome are an important innate immune pathway critical for the production of active IL-1β and interleukin 18, as well as the induction of pyroptosis. Although extensive studies have demonstrated that inflammasomes play a vital role in infectious and autoimmune diseases, their role in tumor progression remains elusive. Multiple studies using a colitis-associated colon cancer model show that inflammasome components provide protection against the development of colon cancer. However, very recent studies demonstrate that inflammasomes promote tumor progression in skin and breast cancer. These results indicate that inflammasomes can promote and suppress tumor development depending on types of tumors, specific inflammasomes involved, and downstream effector molecules. The complicated role of inflammasomes raises new opportunities and challenges to manipulate inflammasome pathways in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melvin Kantono
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, United States.,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Beichu Guo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, United States.,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, United States
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27
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Mirjačić Martinović KM, Vuletić AM, Lj. Babović N, Džodić RR, Konjević GM, Jurišić VB. Attenuated in vitro effects of IFN-α, IL-2 and IL-12 on functional and receptor characteristics of peripheral blood lymphocytes in metastatic melanoma patients. Cytokine 2017; 96:30-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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28
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Poznanski SM, Lee AJ, Nham T, Lusty E, Larché MJ, Lee DA, Ashkar AA. Combined Stimulation with Interleukin-18 and Interleukin-12 Potently Induces Interleukin-8 Production by Natural Killer Cells. J Innate Immun 2017. [PMID: 28633138 DOI: 10.1159/000477172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The combination of interleukin (IL)-18 and IL-12 (IL-18+IL-12) potently stimulates natural killer (NK) cells, triggering an innate immune response to infections and cancers. Strategies exploiting the effects of IL-18+IL-12 have shown promise for cancer immunotherapy. However, studies have primarily characterized the NK cell response to IL-18+IL-12 in terms of interferon (IFN)-γ production, with little focus on other cytokines produced. IL-8 plays a critical role in activating and recruiting immune cells, but it also has tumor-promoting functions. IL-8 is classically produced by regulatory NK cells; however, cytotoxic NK cells do not typically produce IL-8. In this study, we uncover that stimulation with IL-18+IL-12 induces high levels of IL-8 production by ex vivo expanded and freshly isolated NK cells and NK cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We further report that tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, produced by NK cells following IL-18+IL-12 stimulation, regulates IL-8 production. The IL-8 produced is in turn required for maximal IFN-γ and TNF-α production. These findings may have important implications for the immune response to infections and cancer immunotherapies. This study broadens our understanding of NK cell function and IL-18+IL-12 synergy by uncovering an unprecedented ability of IL-18+IL-12-activated peripheral blood NK cells to produce elevated levels of IL-8 and identifying the requirement for intermediates induced by IL-18+IL-12 for maximal cytokine production following stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie M Poznanski
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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29
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Littwitz-Salomon E, Dittmer U, Sutter K. Insufficient natural killer cell responses against retroviruses: how to improve NK cell killing of retrovirus-infected cells. Retrovirology 2016; 13:77. [PMID: 27821119 PMCID: PMC5100108 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-016-0311-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells belong to the innate immune system and protect against cancers and a variety of viruses including retroviruses by killing transformed or infected cells. They express activating and inhibitory receptors on their cell surface and often become activated after recognizing virus-infected cells. They have diverse antiviral effector functions like the release of cytotoxic granules, cytokine production and antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity. The importance of NK cell activity in retroviral infections became evident due to the discovery of several viral strategies to escape recognition and elimination by NK cells. Mutational sequence polymorphisms as well as modulation of surface receptors and their ligands are mechanisms of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 to evade NK cell-mediated immune pressure. In Friend retrovirus infected mice the virus can manipulate molecular or cellular immune factors that in turn suppress the NK cell response. In this model NK cells lack cytokines for optimal activation and can be functionally suppressed by regulatory T cells. However, these inhibitory pathways can be overcome therapeutically to achieve full activation of NK cell responses and ultimately control dissemination of retroviral infection. One effective approach is to modulate the crosstalk between NK cells and dendritic cells, which produce NK cell-stimulating cytokines like type I interferons (IFN), IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 upon retrovirus sensing or infection. Therapeutic administration of IFNα directly increases NK cell killing of retrovirus-infected cells. In addition, IL-2/anti-IL-2 complexes that direct IL-2 to NK cells have been shown to significantly improve control of retroviral infection by NK cells in vivo. In this review, we describe novel approaches to improve NK cell effector functions in retroviral infections. Immunotherapies that target NK cells of patients suffering from viral infections might be a promising treatment option for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Littwitz-Salomon
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital in Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital in Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Sutter
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital in Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
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30
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Huang YQ, Li PY, Wang JB, Zhou HQ, Yang ZR, Yang RC, Bai ZF, Wang LF, Li JY, Liu HH, Zhao YL, Xiao XH. Inhibition of Sophocarpine on Poly I: C/D-GalN-Induced Immunological Liver Injury in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:256. [PMID: 27570511 PMCID: PMC4981750 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has suggested that natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the pathogenesis of human immunological liver injury (ILI). Previous studies have demonstrated that Sophocarpine exerts activity in immune modulation. It also has a therapeutic effect on liver protection in that it can alleviate liver fibrosis by suppressing both the activation of hepatic stellate cells and the proliferation of the activated hepatic stellate cells. However, whether Sophocarpine protects the liver by regulating NK cell activity remains unclear. In this study, the modulating effect of Sophocarpine on NK cells in the liver was investigated. The results showed that Sophocarpine dramatically decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuated the liver injury induced by Poly I: C/D-GalN in C57BL/6- mice. More importantly, Sophocarpine pre-treatment significantly suppressed NK cell activation and downregulated the expression of NKG2D, a receptor responsible for NK cell activation. Moreover, the protein levels of DAP12, ZAP76 and Syk decreased, as did their corresponding mRNA levels. Overall, our study demonstrates that Sophocarpine inhibits NK cell activity, thus making it a promising therapy for ILI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Qiu Huang
- Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, 302 Military Hospital of ChinaBeijing, China
| | - Peng-Yan Li
- China Military Institute of Chinese Medicine, 302 Military Hospital of China Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Bo Wang
- China Military Institute of Chinese Medicine, 302 Military Hospital of China Beijing, China
| | - Hou-Qin Zhou
- Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, 302 Military Hospital of ChinaBeijing, China
| | - Zhi-Rui Yang
- Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengdu, China; Department of Pharmacy, 302 Military Hospital of ChinaBeijing, China
| | - Rui-Chuang Yang
- Research Center for Clinical and Translational Medicine, 302 Hospital of People's Liberation Army Beijing, China
| | - Zhao-Fang Bai
- China Military Institute of Chinese Medicine, 302 Military Hospital of China Beijing, China
| | - Li-Fu Wang
- Department of Integrative Medical Center, 302 Hospital of People's Liberation Army Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Yu Li
- Department of Integrative Medical Center, 302 Hospital of People's Liberation Army Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Hong Liu
- Department of Integrative Medical Center, 302 Hospital of People's Liberation Army Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Ling Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, 302 Military Hospital of China Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-He Xiao
- China Military Institute of Chinese Medicine, 302 Military Hospital of China Beijing, China
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31
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Goding SR, Yu S, Bailey LM, Lotze MT, Basse PH. Adoptive transfer of natural killer cells promotes the anti-tumor efficacy of T cells. Clin Immunol 2016; 177:76-86. [PMID: 27377534 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The density of NK cells in tumors correlates positively with prognosis in many types of cancers. The average number of infiltrating NK cells is, however, quite modest (approximately 30 NK cells/sq.mm), even in tumors deemed to have a "high" density of infiltrating NK cells. It is unclear how such low numbers of tumor-infiltrating NK cells can influence outcome. Here, we used ovalbumin-expressing tumor cell lines and TCR transgenic, OVA-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (OT-I-CTLs) to determine whether the simultaneous attack by anti-tumor CTLs and IL-2-activated NK (A-NK) cells synergistically increases the overall tumor cell kill and whether upregulation of tumor MHC class-I by NK cell-derived interferon-gamma (IFNγ) improves tumor-recognition and kill by anti-tumor CTLs. At equal E:T ratios, A-NK cells killed OVA-expressing tumor cells better than OT-I-CTLs. The cytotoxicity against OVA-expressing tumor cells increased by combining OT-I-CTLs and A-NK cells, but the increase was additive rather than synergistic. A-NK cells adenovirally-transduced to produce IL-12 (A-NKIL-12) produced high amounts of IFNγ. The addition of a low number of A-NKIL-12 cells to OT-I-CTLs resulted in a synergistic, albeit modest, increase in overall cytotoxicity. Pre-treatment of tumor cells with NK cell-conditioned medium increased tumor MHC expression and sensitivity to CTL-mediated killing. Pre-treatment of CTLs with NK cell-conditioned medium had no effect on CTL cytotoxicity. In vivo, MHC class-I expression by OVA-expressing B16 melanoma lung metastases increased significantly within 24-48h after adoptive transfer of A-NKIL-12 cells. OT-I-CTLs and A-NKIL-12 cells localized selectively and equally well into OVA-expressing B16 lung metastases and treatment of mice bearing 7-days-old OVA-B16 lung metastases with both A-NKIL-12 cells and OT-I-CTLs lead to a significant prolongation of survival. Thus, an important function of tumor-infiltrating NK cells may be to increase tumor cell expression of MHC class-I through secretion of IFNγ, to prepare them for recognition by tumor-specific CTLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Goding
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Shaohong Yu
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lisa M Bailey
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Michael T Lotze
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Per H Basse
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; UPCI Cell and Tissue Imaging facility at HCC, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, The Hillman Cancer Center, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-1863, USA.
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32
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Konjević G, Vuletić A, Mirjačić Martinović K, Colović N, Čolović M, Jurišić V. Decreased CD161 activating and increased CD158a inhibitory receptor expression on NK cells underlies impaired NK cell cytotoxicity in patients with multiple myeloma. J Clin Pathol 2016; 69:jclinpath-2016-203614. [PMID: 27083212 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2016-203614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIM As innate immune cells natural killer (NK), NK-like T and CTLγδ are important in antitumour response in multiple myeloma (MM), the aim of this study was to investigate some functional and phenotypical characteristics of these cells in MM. METHODS 29 patients with MM prior to therapy, in clinical stage I-III and 15 healthy controls (HCs) were investigated. Percent of immune cells in peripheral blood, NK cell activity, expression of activating (CD161) and inhibitory (CD158a, CD158b) NK cell receptors on CD3-CD16+ NK cells were evaluated using 51-chromium-release assay and by flow cytometry. Production of interleukin (IL) 2 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)α was analysed in supernatants from in vitro activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. RESULTS In patients with MM the percent of NK cells and their two subsets did not differ from controls, while NK-like T and CTLγδ cells were significantly decreased. Significant impairment of NK cell cytotoxicity, CD107a expression and interferon γ intracellular level was also shown. There was a significant decrease in CD161 and an increase in CD158a receptor expression on NK cells in these patients. Also IL-2 production was lowest in clinical stage III. However, TNF-α production did not differ between patients and HCs. CONCLUSIONS Altered expression of CD161 activating and CD158a KIR inhibitory receptor is responsible for impaired antitumour activity of NK cells in MM patients. These new biomarkers may be helpful for patient selection for immunotherapy with cytokines, and novel KIR blocking monoclonal antibodies that enhance NK cell antimyeloma activity and provide clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordana Konjević
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Vuletić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Nataša Colović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia Institute of Hematology, Clinical Center Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Čolović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Jurišić
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
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33
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Nielsen CM, Wolf AS, Goodier MR, Riley EM. Synergy between Common γ Chain Family Cytokines and IL-18 Potentiates Innate and Adaptive Pathways of NK Cell Activation. Front Immunol 2016; 7:101. [PMID: 27047490 PMCID: PMC4801862 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies to develop cell-based therapies for cancer and other diseases have consistently shown that purified human natural killer (NK) cells secrete cytokines and kill target cells after in vitro culture with high concentrations of cytokines. However, these assays poorly reflect the conditions that are likely to prevail in vivo in the early stages of an infection and have been carried out in a wide variety of experimental systems, which has led to contradictions within the literature. We have conducted a detailed kinetic and dose-response analysis of human NK cell responses to low concentrations of IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, IL-21, and IFN-α, alone and in combination, and their potential to synergize with IL-2. We find that very low concentrations of both innate and adaptive common γ chain cytokines synergize with equally low concentrations of IL-18 to drive rapid and potent NK cell CD25 and IFN-γ expression; IL-18 and IL-2 reciprocally sustain CD25 and IL-18Rα expression in a positive feedback loop; and IL-18 synergizes with FcγRIII (CD16) signaling to augment antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. These data indicate that NK cells can be rapidly activated by very low doses of innate cytokines and that the common γ chain cytokines have overlapping but distinct functions in combination with IL-18. Importantly, synergy between multiple signaling pathways leading to rapid NK cell activation at very low cytokine concentrations has been overlooked in prior studies focusing on single cytokines or simple combinations. Moreover, although the precise common γ chain cytokines available during primary and secondary infections may differ, their synergy with both IL-18 and antigen-antibody immune complexes underscores their contribution to NK cell activation during innate and adaptive responses. IL-18 signaling potentiates NK cell effector function during innate and adaptive immune responses by synergy with IL-2, IL-15, and IL-21 and immune complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Nielsen
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Asia-Sophia Wolf
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Martin R Goodier
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Eleanor M Riley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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34
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Peng Z, Liang W, Li Z, Xu Y, Chen L. Interleukin-15-transferred cytokine-induced killer cells elevated anti-tumor activity in a gastric tumor-bearing nude mice model. Cell Biol Int 2015; 40:204-13. [PMID: 26503216 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Peng
- Department of General Surgery; Chinese PLA General Hospital; Beijing 100853 China
| | - Wentao Liang
- Institute of General Surgery; Chinese PLA General Hospital; Beijing 100853 China
| | - Zexue Li
- Institute of General Surgery; Chinese PLA General Hospital; Beijing 100853 China
| | - Yingxin Xu
- Institute of General Surgery; Chinese PLA General Hospital; Beijing 100853 China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of General Surgery; Chinese PLA General Hospital; Beijing 100853 China
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35
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Natural killer cell receptors: alterations and therapeutic targeting in malignancies. Immunol Res 2015; 64:25-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s12026-015-8695-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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