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Han S, Song X, Liu J, Zhou J, Wu Z, Song H, Tao J, Wang J. Analysis of metastasis‑related risk factors and clinical relevance in adult soft‑tissue sarcoma. Oncol Lett 2024; 28:515. [PMID: 39247492 PMCID: PMC11378013 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14647] [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: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis occurs in nearly 50% of cases of adult soft-tissue sarcoma (ASTS), leading to a dismal prognosis, with a 2-year survival rate of ~30%. Consequently, a prognostic model that incorporates metastatic characteristics may be instrumental in predicting survival time and in crafting optimal personalized therapeutic strategies for patients with ASTS. In the present study, a prognostic prediction model for ASTS was developed by examining genes that are differentially expressed between non-metastatic and metastatic patients in the Gene Expression Omnibus dataset. The prognostic model, which includes five featured genes [actin γ2 (ACTG2), apolipoprotein D, coatomer protein complex subunit γ2 imprinted transcript 1, collagen type VI α6 chain and osteomodulin], was further validated in patients with ASTS from the Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Based on these five-gene signatures, patients were categorized into high- and low-risk groups. Functional and pathway analyses revealed disparities in stemness, extracellular matrix and cell adhesion-related pathways between the two risk groups, particularly noting the activation of the PI3K-Akt pathway in high-risk cases. Analysis of immune infiltration also revealed variations in immune microenvironment changes between the two risk groups. Immunohistochemical staining substantiated the prognostic significance of these gene signatures in a specific sarcoma subtype. Additionally, wound-healing and Transwell assays demonstrated that inhibition of ACTG2 by shRNAs curbed cell migration and invasion in a sarcoma HOS cell line, underscoring its role in sarcoma metastasis. In conclusion, the present study successfully developed and validated a metastasis-based prognosis prediction model. This model not only reliably forecasts the survival of patients with ASTS, but also may pave the way for further investigation into the processes underlying sarcoma metastasis, ultimately aiding in the design of tailored therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai 201299, P.R. China
| | - Xin Song
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai 201299, P.R. China
| | - Jialiang Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, P.R. China
| | - Jingfen Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai 201299, P.R. China
| | - Zhipeng Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, P.R. China
| | - Haihan Song
- Central Laboratory of Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Fungi Medical Testing, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai 201299, P.R. China
| | - Jun Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, Weihai Central Hospital, Qingdao University, Shandong 264499, P.R. China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai 201299, P.R. China
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Zhang F, Ma Y, Li D, Wei J, Chen K, Zhang E, Liu G, Chu X, Liu X, Liu W, Tian X, Yang Y. Cancer associated fibroblasts and metabolic reprogramming: unraveling the intricate crosstalk in tumor evolution. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:80. [PMID: 39223656 PMCID: PMC11367794 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01600-2] [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: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming provides tumors with an energy source and biofuel to support their survival in the malignant microenvironment. Extensive research into the intrinsic oncogenic mechanisms of the tumor microenvironment (TME) has established that cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) and metabolic reprogramming regulates tumor progression through numerous biological activities, including tumor immunosuppression, chronic inflammation, and ecological niche remodeling. Specifically, immunosuppressive TME formation is promoted and mediators released via CAFs and multiple immune cells that collectively support chronic inflammation, thereby inducing pre-metastatic ecological niche formation, and ultimately driving a vicious cycle of tumor proliferation and metastasis. This review comprehensively explores the process of CAFs and metabolic regulation of the dynamic evolution of tumor-adapted TME, with particular focus on the mechanisms by which CAFs promote the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and support metastasis. Existing findings confirm that multiple components of the TME act cooperatively to accelerate the progression of tumor events. The potential applications and challenges of targeted therapies based on CAFs in the clinical setting are further discussed in the context of advancing research related to CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yongsu Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Dongqi Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Jianlei Wei
- Key laboratory of Microecology-immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang Province, 154007, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Enkui Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Guangnian Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiangyu Chu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Weikang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
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Ma Y, Jiang Z, Pan L, Zhou Y, Xia R, Liu Z, Yuan L. Current development of molecular classifications of gastric cancer based on omics (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 65:89. [PMID: 39092559 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a complex and heterogeneous disease with significant phenotypic and genetic variation. Traditional classification systems rely mainly on the evaluation of clinical pathological features and conventional biomarkers and might not capture the diverse clinical processes of individual GCs. The latest discoveries in omics technologies such as next‑generation sequencing, proteomics and metabolomics have provided crucial insights into potential genetic alterations and biological events in GC. Clustering strategies for identifying subtypes of GC might offer new tools for improving GC treatment and clinical trial outcomes by enabling the development of therapies tailored to specific subtypes. However, the feasibility and therapeutic significance of implementing molecular classifications of GC in clinical practice need to addressed. The present review examines the current molecular classifications, delineates the prevailing landscape of clinically relevant molecular features, analyzes their correlations with traditional GC classifications, and discusses potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Zhengchen Jiang
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, P.R. China
| | - Libin Pan
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310005, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310005, P.R. China
| | - Ruihong Xia
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, P.R. China
| | - Li Yuan
- Zhejiang Key Lab of Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, P.R. China
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Lou Y, Chen Y, Guo K, Li B, Zheng S. Emerging biomarkers for immunotherapy response in biliary tract cancers: a comprehensive review of immune checkpoint inhibitor strategies. Biomark Med 2024:1-13. [PMID: 39143949 DOI: 10.1080/17520363.2024.2385297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) have rising incidence and mortality rates. Chemotherapy's limited efficacy has led to exploring new treatments like immunotherapy. which offers modest benefits. Moreover, the identification of reliable predictive biomarkers for immune checkpoint therapy in BTCs remains elusive, hindering personalized treatment strategies. This review provides an overview of the current landscape of emerging biomarkers for immunotherapy response in BTCs. We discuss the incremental benefits of combination therapy and the evolving role of immunotherapy in managing advanced BTC. Additionally, we highlight the need for robust predictive biomarkers to optimize treatment outcomes and foster a more individualized approach to patient care. We aim to identify promising research avenues and strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and patient survival in BTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Lou
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Department of Oncology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yijing Chen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Department of Oncology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Kaibo Guo
- Department of Oncology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology & Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Binbin Li
- Department of Oncology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Song Zheng
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Department of Oncology, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology & Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
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5
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Gondaliya P, Sayyed AA, Yan IK, Driscoll J, Ziemer A, Patel T. Targeting PD-L1 in cholangiocarcinoma using nanovesicle-based immunotherapy. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2762-2777. [PMID: 38859589 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study demonstrates the potential of using biological nanoparticles to deliver RNA therapeutics targeting programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) as a treatment strategy for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). RNA therapeutics offer prospects for intracellular immune modulation, but effective clinical translation requires appropriate delivery strategies. Milk-derived nanovesicles were decorated with epithelial cellular adhesion molecule (EpCAM) aptamers and used to deliver PD-L1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) or Cas9 ribonucleoproteins directly to CCA cells. In vitro, nanovesicle treatments reduced PD-L1 expression in CCA cells while increasing degranulation, cytokine release, and tumor cell cytotoxicity when tumor cells were co-cultured with T cells or natural killer cells. Similarly, immunomodulation was observed in multicellular spheroids that mimicked the tumor microenvironment. Combining targeted therapeutic vesicles loaded with siRNA to PD-L1 with gemcitabine effectively reduced tumor burden in an immunocompetent mouse CCA model compared with controls. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates the potential of engineered targeted nanovesicle platforms for delivering therapeutic RNA cargoes to tumors, as well as their use in generating effective targeted immunomodulatory therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers such as CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Gondaliya
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Adil Ali Sayyed
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Irene K Yan
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Julia Driscoll
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Abbye Ziemer
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Tushar Patel
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
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Hua S, Gu X, Jin H, Zhang X, Liu Q, Yang J. Tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes: A promising immunotherapeutic target for preventing immune escape in cholangiocarcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117080. [PMID: 38972151 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is becoming more common and deadly worldwide. Tumor-infiltrating T cell subtypes make distinct contributions to the immune system; collectively, they constitute a significant portion of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in CCA. By secreting cytokines and other chemicals, regulatory T cells (Tregs) decrease activated T cell responses, acting as immunosuppressors. Reduced CD8+ T cell activation results in stimulating programmed death-1 (PD-1), which undermines the immunological homeostasis of T lymphocytes. On the other hand, cancer cells are eliminated by activated cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) through the perforin-granzyme or Fas-FasL pathways. Th1 and CTL immune cell infiltration into the malignant tumor is also facilitated by γδ T cells. A higher prognosis is typically implied by CD8+ T cell infiltration, and survival is inversely associated with Treg cell density. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, either singly or in combination, provide novel therapeutic strategies for CCA immunotherapy. Furthermore, it is anticipated that immunotherapeutic strategies-such as the identification of new immune targets, combination treatments involving several immune checkpoint inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor-T therapies (CAR-T)-will optimize the effectiveness of anti-CCA treatments while reducing adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Hua
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xinyi Gu
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hangbin Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital. School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Biliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital. School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Hangzhou Institute of Digestive Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China.
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital. School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Biliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jianfeng Yang
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital. School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Hangzhou Institute of Digestive Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China.
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7
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Ni L, Xu J, Li Q, Ge X, Wang F, Deng X, Miao L. Focusing on the Immune Cells: Recent Advances in Immunotherapy for Biliary Tract Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2024; 16:941-963. [PMID: 39099760 PMCID: PMC11296367 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s474348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancer (BTC) represents a challenging malignancy characterized by aggressive behavior, high relapse rates, and poor prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment landscape for various cancers, but its efficacy in BTC remains limited. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the advances in preclinical and clinical studies of immunotherapy for BTC. We explore the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors in reshaping the management of BTC. Despite disappointing results thus far, ongoing clinical trials are investigating the combination of immunotherapy with other treatment modalities. Furthermore, research on the tumor microenvironment has unveiled novel targets for immunotherapeutic interventions. By understanding the current state of immunotherapy in BTC and highlighting future directions, this article aims to fuel further exploration and ultimately improve patient outcomes in this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luohang Ni
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianing Xu
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Quanpeng Li
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianxiu Ge
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Wang
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueting Deng
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Miao
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
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Wang Z, Guo F, Fu G, Zhao Z, Kang N, Hou X, Zheng X. Predictive and prognostic value of aurora kinase A combined with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in medullary thyroid carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1379420. [PMID: 38903715 PMCID: PMC11187078 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1379420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Aurora kinase A (AURKA) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are both known to play an essential role in tumorigenesis. However, the expression and prognostic value of the AURKA and TILs in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) have not yet been investigated. Patients and methods Surgical specimens and clinical data of 137 patients diagnosed with MTC were collected. AURKA expression and TILs infiltration were quantified by immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Subsequently, the prognostic value of AURKA expression and TIL infiltration in MTC was evaluated. Results AURKA was highly expressed in patients with multifocal tumor, cervical lymph node metastasis, and an advanced TNM stage, indicating a high probability of recurrence. AURKA further exhibited a positive correlation with TILs (R = 0.44, P < 0.001). High expression of AURKA combined with a low numbers of TILs (AURKAhigh/TILslow) was identified as an independent prognostic factor for biochemical recurrence (odds ratio: 4.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.54-14.66, P < 0.01) and recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio: 3.64, 95% confidence interval: 1.52-8.71, P < 0.001). The combination of AURKA and TILs apparently improves the prognostic value for biochemical recurrence (area under the curve: 0.751) and structural recurrence (area under the curve: 0.836) of MTC. Notably, AURKAhigh/TILslow demonstrated a high value for prediction of distant or unresectable locoregional recurrence, with an overall accuracy of 86.9%. Conclusion AURKAhigh is associated with the MTC malignancy. The combination of AURKAhigh/TILslow was identified as novel independent prognostic marker in MTC, predicting incurable disease recurrence with high accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyu Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Fengli Guo
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Guiming Fu
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Thyroid-otolaryngology Department, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Zewei Zhao
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ning Kang
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiukun Hou
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiangqian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
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Li F, Tian C, Wang Y, Wu H, Jin M, Du X, Yan J, Yang X, Yu H. Prognostic significance of peripheral and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in newly diagnosed stage III/IV non-small-cell lung cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1349178. [PMID: 38841570 PMCID: PMC11150824 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1349178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Lymphocytes are effector cells that fight cancer by killing tumor cells. Here, we aim to explore the prognostic significance of both peripheral and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in newly diagnosed stage III/IV non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials and methods In total, 105 cases of newly diagnosed stage III/IV NSCLC from July 2017 to October 2022 at the Tianjin Beichen Hospital were retrospectively investigated. Peripheral blood samples at the time of diagnosis and tumor tissue slices from these patients were collected. General peripheral blood cell composition and TILs were measured and analyzed via an automatic blood analyzer and immunofluorescence staining analysis. The overall survival (OS) time of all patients was also obtained and analyzed. Results The median overall survival (mOS) of all patients is 12 months. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival rates were 60.5, 28.4, and 18.6%, respectively. Peripheral lymphocyte and neutrophil percentages, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) expression, tumor size, and tumor pathology are the prognostic factors of OS for newly diagnosed stage III/IV NSCLC patients. Moreover, patients with high tumor CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltration survived significantly longer compared to patients with low tumor CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltration (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.011, respectively). Compared to low tumor CD33+ cell infiltration, high tumor CD33+ cell infiltration was associated with worse OS (p = 0.018). High tumor CD8+ T cell infiltration was associated with lower peripheral lymphocyte number, lower serum CRP expression, smaller tumor size, and better tumor pathology (p = 0.012, p = 0.040, p = 0.012, and p = 0.029, respectively). Conclusion Increased numbers of peripheral lymphocytes, CD33+ cells, CD4+ TILs, and CD8+ TILs were significantly associated with OS in newly diagnosed stage III/IV NSCLC patients, which were positively associated with several basic clinical factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenge Li
- Department of Oncology, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Core Laboratory, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chong Tian
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yupeng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huancheng Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengli Jin
- Core Laboratory, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueming Du
- Department of Oncology, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jin Yan
- Department of Oncology, Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueling Yang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Haipeng Yu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
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Werner W, Kuzminskaya M, Lurje I, Tacke F, Hammerich L. Overcoming Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Liver Cancer with Combination Therapy: Stronger Together? Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:159-179. [PMID: 38806159 PMCID: PMC11245330 DOI: 10.1055/a-2334-8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, represented mainly by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is one of the most common and deadliest tumors worldwide. While surgical resection or liver transplantation are the best option in early disease stages, these tumors often present in advanced stages and systemic treatment is required to improve survival time. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has had a positive impact especially on the treatment of advanced cancers, thereby establishing immunotherapy as part of first-line treatment in HCC and CCA. Nevertheless, low response rates reflect on the usually cold or immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize mechanisms of resistance leading to tumor immune escape with a special focus on the composition of tumor microenvironment in both HCC and CCA, also reflecting on recent important developments in ICI combination therapy. Furthermore, we discuss how combination of ICIs with established primary liver cancer treatments (e.g. multikinase inhibitors and chemotherapy) as well as more complex combinations with state-of-the-art therapeutic concepts may reshape the tumor microenvironment, leading to higher response rates and long-lasting antitumor immunity for primary liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Werner
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzminskaya
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Wirta EV, Szeto S, Koppatz H, Nordin A, Mäkisalo H, Arola J, Sirén J, Ahtiainen M, Böhm J, Mecklin JP, Sallinen V, Seppälä TT. High immune cell infiltration predicts improved survival in cholangiocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1333926. [PMID: 38751812 PMCID: PMC11094285 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1333926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Antitumoral immune response has a crucial role in constraining cancer. However, previous studies on cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a rare and aggressive cancer, have reported contradictory findings on the prognostic impact of tumor-infiltrating T-lymphocytes. We aimed to clarify the effect of tumor-infiltrating CD3+ and CD8+ lymphocytes and PD-1/PD-L1 expression on CCA prognosis. Methods CD3+, CD8+, and PD-1+ lymphocyte densities, as well as PD-L1 expression rate were analyzed from stained tissue microarray samples from the tumor center and invasive margin of 47 cholangiocarcinomas. The association of CD3+ and CD8+ based Immune cell score (ICS) and its components with overall survival was evaluated, adjusting for age, sex, TNM stage, radicality of surgery, tumor location, and PD-L1 expression on immune cells. Results Low ICS was a strong independent prognostic factor for worse overall survival (Hazard ratio 9.27, 95% confidence interval 2.72-31.64, P<0.001). Among the ICS components, high CD8+ lymphocyte infiltration at the tumor center had the most evident impact on patient outcome. PD-1 and PD-L1 expression on immune cells did not have a significant impact on overall survival alone; however, PD-L1 positivity seemed to impair survival for ICSlow subgroup. Conclusion Identifying patient subgroups that could benefit from immunotherapy with PD-1/PD-L1 pathway blockade may help improve treatment strategies for this aggressive cancer. Our findings highlight the importance of evaluating the immune contexture in cholangiocarcinoma, as ICS serves as a strong independent prognostic and selective factor for patients who might benefit from immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkki-Ville Wirta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Alimentary Tract Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tays Cancer Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Säde Szeto
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Research Program Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Koppatz
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arno Nordin
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heikki Mäkisalo
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka Sirén
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maarit Ahtiainen
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Central Finland Hospital Nova, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jan Böhm
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Central Finland Hospital Nova, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jukka-Pekka Mecklin
- Department of Education and Science, Central Finland Hospital Nova, Well Being Services County of Central Finland, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Ville Sallinen
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Toni T. Seppälä
- Department of Gastroenterology and Alimentary Tract Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tays Cancer Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Research Program Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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12
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Dakal TC, George N, Xu C, Suravajhala P, Kumar A. Predictive and Prognostic Relevance of Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells: Tailoring Personalized Treatments against Different Cancer Types. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1626. [PMID: 38730579 PMCID: PMC11082991 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
TIICs are critical components of the TME and are used to estimate prognostic and treatment responses in many malignancies. TIICs in the tumor microenvironment are assessed and quantified by categorizing immune cells into three subtypes: CD66b+ tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), and CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). In addition, many cancers have tumor-infiltrating M1 and M2 macrophages, neutrophils (Neu), CD4+ T cells (T-helper), CD8+ T cells (T-cytotoxic), eosinophils, and mast cells. A variety of clinical treatments have linked tumor immune cell infiltration (ICI) to immunotherapy receptivity and prognosis. To improve the therapeutic effectiveness of immune-modulating drugs in a wider cancer patient population, immune cells and their interactions in the TME must be better understood. This study examines the clinicopathological effects of TIICs in overcoming tumor-mediated immunosuppression to boost antitumor immune responses and improve cancer prognosis. We successfully analyzed the predictive and prognostic usefulness of TIICs alongside TMB and ICI scores to identify cancer's varied immune landscapes. Traditionally, immune cell infiltration was quantified using flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), CIBERSORT, ESTIMATE, and other platforms that use integrated immune gene sets from previously published studies. We have also thoroughly examined traditional limitations and newly created unsupervised clustering and deconvolution techniques (SpatialVizScore and ProTICS). These methods predict patient outcomes and treatment responses better. These models may also identify individuals who may benefit more from adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment. Overall, we think that the significant contribution of TIICs in cancer will greatly benefit postoperative follow-up, therapy, interventions, and informed choices on customized cancer medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome and Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Nancy George
- Department of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Punjab, India;
| | - Caiming Xu
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91010, USA;
| | - Prashanth Suravajhala
- Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Clappana P.O. 690525, Kerala, India;
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, Karnataka, India
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13
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Zhang Y, Xu M, Ren Y, Ba Y, Liu S, Zuo A, Xu H, Weng S, Han X, Liu Z. Tertiary lymphoid structural heterogeneity determines tumour immunity and prospects for clinical application. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:75. [PMID: 38582847 PMCID: PMC10998345 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01980-6] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) are clusters of immune cells that resemble and function similarly to secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs). While TLS is generally associated with an anti-tumour immune response in most cancer types, it has also been observed to act as a pro-tumour immune response. The heterogeneity of TLS function is largely determined by the composition of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and the balance of cell subsets within the tumour-associated TLS (TA-TLS). TA-TLS of varying maturity, density, and location may have opposing effects on tumour immunity. Higher maturity and/or higher density TLS are often associated with favorable clinical outcomes and immunotherapeutic response, mainly due to crosstalk between different proportions of immune cell subpopulations in TA-TLS. Therefore, TLS can be used as a marker to predict the efficacy of immunotherapy in immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Developing efficient imaging and induction methods to study TA-TLS is crucial for enhancing anti-tumour immunity. The integration of imaging techniques with biological materials, including nanoprobes and hydrogels, alongside artificial intelligence (AI), enables non-invasive in vivo visualization of TLS. In this review, we explore the dynamic interactions among T and B cell subpopulations of varying phenotypes that contribute to the structural and functional diversity of TLS, examining both existing and emerging techniques for TLS imaging and induction, focusing on cancer immunotherapies and biomaterials. We also highlight novel therapeutic approaches of TLS that are being explored with the aim of increasing ICB treatment efficacy and predicting prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyuan Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Mengjun Xu
- Medical School of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yuqing Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yuhao Ba
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Shutong Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Anning Zuo
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Siyuan Weng
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
| | - Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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14
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Zhao Y, Yang M, Feng J, Wang X, Liu Y. Advances in immunotherapy for biliary tract cancers. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:524-532. [PMID: 37646139 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Biliary tract cancers (BTC), a heterogeneous disease with poor prognosis, including gallbladder cancer (GBC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC). Although surgery is currently the primary regimen to treat BTC, most BTC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and miss the opportunity of surgical eradication. As a result, non-surgical therapy serves as the main intervention for advanced BTC. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising therapies in a number of solid cancers, and it includes immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) monotherapy or combined therapy, tumor vaccines, oncolytic virus immunotherapy, adoptive cell therapy (ACT), and cytokine therapy. However, these therapies have been practiced in limited clinical settings in patients with BTC. In this review, we focus on the discussion of latest advances of immunotherapy in BTC and update the progress of multiple current clinical trials with different immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Zhao
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Mao Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Jiayi Feng
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Xu'an Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Yingbin Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Shanghai 200082, China
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15
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Pirsadeghi A, Namakkoobi N, Behzadi MS, Pourzinolabedin H, Askari F, Shahabinejad E, Ghorbani S, Asadi F, Hosseini-Chegeni A, Yousefi-Ahmadipour A, Kamrani MH. Therapeutic approaches of cell therapy based on stem cells and terminally differentiated cells: Potential and effectiveness. Cells Dev 2024; 177:203904. [PMID: 38316293 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2024.203904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Cell-based therapy, as a promising regenerative medicine approach, has been a promising and effective strategy to treat or even cure various kinds of diseases and conditions. Generally, two types of cells are used in cell therapy, the first is the stem cell, and the other is a fully differentiated cell. Initially, all cells in the body are derived from stem cells. Based on the capacity, potency and differentiation potential of stem cells, there are four types: totipotent (produces all somatic cells plus perinatal tissues), pluripotent (produces all somatic cells), multipotent (produces many types of cells), and unipotent (produces a particular type of cells). All non-totipotent stem cells can be used for cell therapy, depending on their potency and/or disease state/conditions. Adult fully differentiated cell is another cell type for cell therapy that is isolated from adult tissues or obtained following the differentiation of stem cells. The cells can then be transplanted back into the patient to replace damaged or malfunctioning cells, promote tissue repair, or enhance the targeted organ's overall function. With increasing science and knowledge in biology and medicine, different types of techniques have been developed to obtain efficient cells to use for therapeutic approaches. In this study, the potential and opportunity of use of all cell types, both stem cells and fully differentiated cells, are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Pirsadeghi
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Negar Namakkoobi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Student Research Committee, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mahtab Sharifzadeh Behzadi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Pourzinolabedin
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Askari
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; USERN Office, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Erfan Shahabinejad
- Student Research Committee, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; USERN Office, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ghorbani
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Asadi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Cancer and Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Ali Hosseini-Chegeni
- Cancer and Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aliakbar Yousefi-Ahmadipour
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Student Research Committee, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Cancer and Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hossein Kamrani
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
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16
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Zhang Y, Yan HJ, Wu J. The Tumor Immune Microenvironment plays a Key Role in Driving the Progression of Cholangiocarcinoma. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:681-700. [PMID: 38213139 DOI: 10.2174/0115680096267791231115101107] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an epithelial cancer distinguished by bile duct cell differentiation and is also a fibroproliferative tumor. It is characterized by a dense mesenchyme and a complex tumor immune microenvironment (TME). The TME comprises both cellular and non-cellular components. The celluar component includes CCA cells, immune cells and mesenchymal cells represented by the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), while the non-cellular component is represented by mesenchymal elements such as the extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent studies have demonstrated the important role of the TME in the development, progression, and treatment resistance of CCA. These cell-associated prognostic markers as well as intercellular connections, may serve as potential therapeutic targets and could inspire new treatment approaches for CCA in the future. This paper aims to summarize the current understanding of CCA's immune microenvironment, focusing on immune cells, mesenchymal cells, ECM, intercellular interactions, and metabolism within the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian St, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Hai-Jiao Yan
- Department of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian St, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian St, Changzhou, 213003, China
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17
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Li C, Bie L, Chen M, Ying J. Therapeutic significance of tumor microenvironment in cholangiocarcinoma: focus on tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1310-1327. [PMID: 38213535 PMCID: PMC10776604 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive type of adenocarcinoma distinguished by its invasiveness. Depending on specific anatomical positioning within the biliary tree, CCA can be categorized into intrahepatic CCA (ICCA), perihilar CCA (pCCA) and distal CCA (dCCA). In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the global prevalence of CCA. Unfortunately, many CCA patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, which makes surgical resection impossible. Although systemic chemotherapy is frequently used as the primary treatment for advanced or recurrent CCA, its effectiveness is relatively low. Therefore, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising avenue for advancing cancer treatment research. CCA exhibits a complex immune environment within the stromal tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising a multifaceted immune landscape and a tumor-reactive stroma. A deeper understanding of this complex TME is indispensable for identifying potential therapeutic targets. Thus, targeting tumor immune microenvironment holds promise as an effective therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Li
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate training base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Bie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Wuhan No.1 Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Muhua Chen
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jieer Ying
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary & Gastric Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, Zhejiang, China
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18
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Yang S, Zou R, Dai Y, Hu Y, Li F, Hu H. Tumor immune microenvironment and the current immunotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma (Review). Int J Oncol 2023; 63:137. [PMID: 37888583 PMCID: PMC10631767 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy originating from the epithelial system of the bile ducts, and its incidence in recent years is steadily increasing. The immune microenvironment of CCA is characterized by diversity and complexity, with a substantial presence of cancer‑associated fibroblasts and immune cell infiltration, which plays a key role in regulating the distinctive biological behavior of cholangiocarcinoma, including tumor growth, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Despite the notable success of immunotherapy in the treatment of solid tumors in recent years, patients with CCA have responded poorly to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The interaction of tumor cells with cellular components of the immune microenvironment can regulate the activity and function of immune cells and form an immunosuppressive microenvironment, which may cause ineffective immunotherapy. Therefore, the components of the tumor immune microenvironment appear to be novel targets for immune therapies. Combination therapy focusing on immune checkpoint inhibitors is a promising and valuable first‑line or translational treatment approach for intractable biliary tract malignancies. The present review discusses the compositional characteristics and regulatory factors of the CCA immune microenvironment and the possible immune escape mechanisms. In addition, a summary of the advances in immunotherapy for CCA is also provided. It is hoped that the present review may function as a valuable reference for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yang
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Ruiqi Zou
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yushi Dai
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yafei Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Fuyu Li
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Haijie Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
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19
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Wu J, Liu W, Qiu X, Li J, Song K, Shen S, Huo L, Chen L, Xu M, Wang H, Jia N, Chen L. A Noninvasive Approach to Evaluate Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Predict Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. PHENOMICS (CHAM, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 3:549-564. [PMID: 38223688 PMCID: PMC10781918 DOI: 10.1007/s43657-023-00136-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
It is widely recognized that tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a crucial role in tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic response. Despite several noninvasive strategies have emerged for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, there are still lack of effective radiomic-based model to evaluate TIME status, let alone predict clinical outcome and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICIs) response for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we developed a radiomic model to evaluate TIME status within the tumor and predict prognosis and immunotherapy response. A total of 301 patients who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations were enrolled in our study. The intra-tumoral expression of 17 immune-related molecules were evaluated using co-detection by indexing (CODEX) technology, and we construct Immunoscore (IS) with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm and Cox regression method to evaluate TIME. Of 6115 features extracted from MRI, five core features were filtered out, and the Radiomic Immunoscore (RIS) showed high accuracy in predicting TIME status in testing cohort (area under the curve = 0.753). More importantly, RIS model showed the capability of predicting therapeutic response to anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) immunotherapy in an independent cohort with advanced HCC patients (area under the curve = 0.731). In comparison with previously radiomic-based models, our integrated RIS model exhibits not only higher accuracy in predicting prognosis but also the potential guiding significance to HCC immunotherapy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43657-023-00136-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
| | - Wanmin Liu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200333 China
| | - Xinyao Qiu
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Kairong Song
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
| | - Siyun Shen
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
| | - Lei Huo
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
| | - Lu Chen
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
| | - Mingshuang Xu
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Ningyang Jia
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
| | - Lei Chen
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438 China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 201805 China
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Wang Y, Zhu J, Zhou N, Wang Y, Zhang X. Changes in T lymphocyte subsets predict the efficacy of atezolizumab in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a retrospective study. J Thorac Dis 2023; 15:5669-5679. [PMID: 37969284 PMCID: PMC10636460 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-23-1169] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Background It has remained unclear how programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors affect peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) subsets in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study assessed the predictive and prognostic value of PBL subsets in patients with advanced NSCLC who were treated with atezolizumab. Methods A total of 30 patients with advanced NSCLC treated with atezolizumab were selected as the observation group, and 30 healthy individuals were chosen as the control group during same period. Flow cytometry was used to detect lymphocyte subsets before and after treatment. The relationship between the changes of lymphocyte subsets and atezolizumab in the treatment of NSCLC was analyzed and calculated. Results Before treatment, compared with the control group, the number of CD3+, CD4+ T, and CD4+/CD8+ indexes in the observation group were significantly decreased, whereas the level of CD8+ was significantly increased. The number of CD3+, CD4+ T, and CD4+/CD8+ indexes gradually increased with the process of atezolizumab treatment, whereas the number of CD8+ T gradually decreased. After the 4 cycles, the number of CD3+, CD4+ T, and CD4+/CD8+ indexes were significantly increased, and the number of CD8+ was significantly decreased. In the observation group, 22 patients achieved partial response (PR)/stable disease (SD) and 8 patients achieved progressive disease (PD) after 4 cycles of atezolizumab treatment. Before treatment, there were no significant differences in the level of lymphocyte subsets between those who achieved PR/SD or PD. However, a significant difference in the level of lymphocyte subsets appeared after 4 cycles of atezolizumab treatment. Among the 22 patients who achieved PR/SD, the number of CD3+, CD4+ T, and CD4+/CD8+ indexes were significantly increased, whereas the number of CD8+ T lymphocytes was significantly decreased. Meanwhile, the 8 patients who achieved PD displayed different results. In addition, ROC curve combined detection of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T [area under the curve (AUC) =0.9018, P<0.0001] showed good predictive ability for the efficacy of atezolizumab in advanced NSCLC. Conclusions Atezolizumab may alter the level of lymphocyte subsets in patients with advanced NSCLC, and the changes in lymphocyte subsets may predict the efficacy of atezolizumab for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Wang
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Precision Medicine Center of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jingjuan Zhu
- Precision Medicine Center of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Na Zhou
- Precision Medicine Center of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaochun Zhang
- Precision Medicine Center of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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Balbaloglu H, Tasdoven I, Karadeniz Cakmak G. Can inflammatory indices predict sentinel lymph node status in patients with early-stage breast cancer? Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34808. [PMID: 37603529 PMCID: PMC10443763 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer research has focused on the early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Axillary lymph node status is essential for primary breast cancer staging, recurrence, and survival. The current quest for precision medicine is to identify predictive markers that offer the advantage of individualized treatment options. This study aimed to investigate the value of inflammatory indices in predicting positive sentinel nodes in breast cancer. We studied 602 patients with early-stage breast cancer who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsies (SLNB) at the Bülent Ecevit University General Surgery Clinic. We obtained data, including the clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients, such as age, histological type, and sentinel lymph nodes. Neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet, and monocyte counts were obtained from preoperative complete blood count test data from the patient registry. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), systemic inflammatory index (SII), and sentinel lymph node biopsy were analyzed. Sentinel LAP was negative in 391 (65%) patients and positive in 211 (35%). In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, no significant difference was found between SLNB positivity and negativity in terms of NLR, PLR, LMR, or SII. In contrast to previous research, NLR, PLR, LMR, or SII did not affect SLNB positivity prediction in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Balbaloglu
- Bulent Ecevit University, School of Medicine, Department of General Surgery, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Ilhan Tasdoven
- Bulent Ecevit University, School of Medicine, Department of General Surgery, Zonguldak, Turkey
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Wang YM, Cai W, Xue QM, Zhang JY, Zhou L, Xiong SY, Deng H. Prognostic role of different PD-L1 expression patterns and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in high-grade serous ovarian cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1234894. [PMID: 37654479 PMCID: PMC10465691 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1234894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The prognostic value of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) remains a controversial topic in the research field. To comprehensively assess the importance of PD-L1 and TILs in this particular subtype of ovarian cancer, we performed a meta-analysis. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases up to December 25, 2022. The association between PD-L1, TILs, and survival outcomes was evaluated using the combined hazard ratios (HRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results This meta-analysis comprised 11 trials involving a total of 1746 cases. The results revealed no significant association between PD-L1 expression in tumor cells (TCs) and overall survival (OS, HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.52-1.09, p = 0.136) or progression-free survival (PFS, HR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.4 -1.24, p = 0.230). Nevertheless, a correlation was observed between PD-L1 expression in immune cells (ICs) and OS (HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.55-0.97, p = 0.031). Furthermore, the presence of CD8+ and PD-1+ TILs was found to significantly enhance OS (HR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.55-0.87, p = 0.002; HR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.40-0.80, p = 0.001, respectively) and PFS (HR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.41-0.92, p = 0.019; HR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.35-0.78, p = 0.002, respectively), whereas the presence of CD3+ and CD4+ TILs was positively associated with OS (HR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.29-0.87, p = 0.014; HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.34-0.91, p = 0.020, respectively). Conclusion This study indicates a positive correlation between ICs-derived PD-L1 and survival, while no significant correlation was observed between TCs-derived PD-L1 and prognosis. These results highlight the importance of studying PD-L1 expression in ICs as a prognostic predictor. In addition, the presence of TILs was found to significantly improve patient survival, suggesting that TILs may be a valuable prognostic biomarker. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022366411.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Min Wang
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qing-Ming Xue
- Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jin-Yao Zhang
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lv Zhou
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Su-Yi Xiong
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huan Deng
- Department of Pathology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Wang J, Zhu Y, Chen Y, Huang Y, Guo Q, Wang Y, Chen A, Zhou Y, Xu L, Wang L, Zou X, Li X. Three-in-One Oncolytic Adenovirus System Initiates a Synergetic Photodynamic Immunotherapy in Immune-Suppressive Cholangiocarcinoma. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207668. [PMID: 37127884 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Although photodynamic immunotherapy has been promoted in the clinical practice of cholangiocarcinoma, the insensitivity to photodynamic immunotherapy remains to be a great problem. This can be largely attributed to an immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) manifested as immature myeloid cells and exhausted cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Here, a three-in-one oncolytic adenovirus system PEG-PEI-Adv-Catalase-KillerRed (p-Adv-CAT-KR) has been constructed to multiply, initiate, and enhance immune responses in photodynamic immunotherapy, using genetically-engineered KillerRed as photosensitizer, catalase as in situ oxygen-supplying mediator, and adenovirus as immunostimulatory bio-reproducible carrier. Meanwhile, PEG-PEI is applied to protect adenovirus from circulating immune attack. The administration of p-Adv-CAT-KR induces increased antigen presenting cells, elevated T cell infiltrations, and reduced tumor burden. Further investigation into underlying mechanism indicates that hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (Hif-1α) and its downstream PD-1/PD-L1 pathway contribute to the transformation of immune-suppressive TME in cholangiocarcinoma. Collectively, the combination of KillerRed, catalase, and adenovirus brings about multi-amplified antitumor photo-immunity and has the potential to be an effective immunotherapeutic strategy for cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Nanjing Medical Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Pain, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Qiyuan Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Aotian Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xiaoping Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xihan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
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Xie Z, Zhou Z, Yang S, Zhang S, Shao B. Epigenetic regulation and therapeutic targets in the tumor microenvironment. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:17. [PMID: 37273004 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00126-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial to neoplastic processes, fostering proliferation, angiogenesis and metastasis. Epigenetic regulations, primarily including DNA and RNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA, have been generally recognized as an essential feature of tumor malignancy, exceedingly contributing to the dysregulation of the core gene expression in neoplastic cells, bringing about the evasion of immunosurveillance by influencing the immune cells in TME. Recently, compelling evidence have highlighted that clinical therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic machinery modulate carcinogenesis through targeting TME components, including normalizing cells' phenotype, suppressing cells' neovascularization and repressing the immunosuppressive components in TME. Therefore, TME components have been nominated as a promising target for epigenetic drugs in clinical cancer management. This review focuses on the mechanisms of epigenetic modifications occurring to the pivotal TME components including the stroma, immune and myeloid cells in various tumors reported in the last five years, concludes the tight correlation between TME reprogramming and tumor progression and immunosuppression, summarizes the current advances in cancer clinical treatments and potential therapeutic targets with reference to epigenetic drugs. Finally, we summarize some of the restrictions in the field of cancer research at the moment, further discuss several interesting epigenetic gene targets with potential strategies to boost antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuojun Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Zirui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuxian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiwen Zhang
- Department of Oral Implantology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Bin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Manthopoulou E, Ramai D, Dhar J, Samanta J, Ioannou A, Lusina E, Sacco R, Facciorusso A. Cholangiocarcinoma in the Era of Immunotherapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1062. [PMID: 37376451 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11061062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract, with aggressive behavior, and portends a poor prognosis. Traditionally, it is classified according to its site of involvement as intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinoma. A host of genetic and epigenetic factors have been involved in its pathogenesis. Chemotherapy has remained the standard first-line treatment over the last decade, with a disappointing median overall survival of 11 months for locally advanced and metastatic CCA. The advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of many pancreaticobiliary malignancies, offering durable responses with a safe therapeutic profile. To date, there have been no significant advances in the management of CCA. Novel immunotherapeutic methods, such as cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors with other agents, are currently under investigation and may improve prognosis with overall survival. Efforts to find robust biomarkers for response to treatment along with multiple clinical trials are also ongoing in this regard. In this review, we present an overview of the current advances and the future perspectives of immunotherapy in the management of CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Manthopoulou
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Savvas Oncology Hospital of Athens, 11522 Athens, Greece
| | - Daryl Ramai
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT 801385, USA
| | - Jahnvi Dhar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sohana Multi-Speciality Hospital, Mohali 140308, India
- Department of Gastroenterology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Jayanta Samanta
- Department of Gastroenterology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Alexandros Ioannou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alexandra General Hospital, Lourou 4-2, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Ekaterina Lusina
- Therapeutic Unit, Gastroenterology Department, Chaika Clinics, Lesnaya Street 9, 125196 Moscow, Russia
| | - Rodolfo Sacco
- Department Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto 1, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Facciorusso
- Department Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Luigi Pinto 1, 71122 Foggia, Italy
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Ma Z, Xie T, Sun J, Yu J, Huang S, Zhou Q, Li B. Identification of SPRYD4 as a tumour suppressor predicts prognosis and correlates with immune infiltration in cholangiocarcinoma. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:404. [PMID: 37142983 PMCID: PMC10161465 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10810-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive solid tumour with a 5-year survival rate ranging from 7% to 20%. It is, therefore, urgent to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets to improve the outcomes of patients with CCA. SPRY-domain containing protein 4 (SPRYD4) contains SPRY domains that modulate protein-protein interaction in various biological processes; however, its role in cancer development is insufficiently explored. This study is the first to identify that SPRYD4 is downregulated in CCA tissues using multiple public datasets and a CCA cohort. Furthermore, the low expression of SPRYD4 was significantly associated with unfavourable clinicopathological characteristics and poor prognosis in patients with CCA, indicating that SPRYD4 could be a prognosis indicator of CCA. In vitro experiments revealed that SPRYD4 overexpression inhibited CCA cells proliferation and migration, whereas the proliferative and migratory capacity of CCA cells was enhanced after SPRYD4 deletion. Moreover, flow cytometry showed that SPRYD4 overexpression triggered the S/G2 cell phase arrest and promoted apoptosis in CCA cells. Furthermore, the tumour-inhibitory effect of SPRYD4 was validated in vivo using xenograft mouse models. SPRYD4 also showed a close association with tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes and important immune checkpoints including PD1, PD-L1 and CTLA4 in CCA. In conclusion, this study elucidated the role of SPRYD4 during CCA development and highlighted SPRYD4 as a novel biomarker and tumour suppressor in CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuyi Ma
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Tiange Xie
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jia Sun
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jianchun Yu
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Shanzhou Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Hui Ya Hospital of The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Huizhou, 516081, China.
- Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Binglu Li
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Zuo R, Zhu F, Zhang C, Ma J, Chen J, Yue P, Cui J, Wang Y, Chen P. The response prediction and prognostic values of systemic inflammation response index in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma. Thorac Cancer 2023. [PMID: 37128769 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assess the response prediction and prognostic values of different peripheral blood cell biomarkers for advanced lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients receiving first-line therapy. METHODS Patients diagnosed with advanced LUAD as well as healthy controls and patients with benign pulmonary diseases were collected in this retrospective study. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed in a 1:1 ratio. Survival state was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox proportional hazard model was used to assess the prognostic factors. RESULTS Compared with the control groups, the level of peripheral blood leucocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, platelet, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, monocyte to lymphocyte ratio, platelet to lymphocyte ratio, and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) were higher in LUAD patients (all p < 0.001). Some inflammatory markers decreased at the time of optimal response and then increased again as the disease progressed. Multivariate analysis revealed that SIRI and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were independent prognostic factors no matter before or after PSM analysis. Area under the curve (AUC) of SIRI and LDH were 0.625 (p < 0.001) and 0.596 (p = 0.008), respectively. When SIRI and LDH were combined, the AUC reached 0.649 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Pretreatment SIRI was an independent prognostic factor of progression free survival (PFS) in advanced LUAD patients. Dynamic monitoring of inflammatory index changes could help to predict therapeutic efficacy. The combination of SIRI and LDH is expected to be a promising clinically accessible biomarker in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Zuo
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Fuyi Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Cuicui Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jincheng Ma
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinliang Chen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Yue
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinfang Cui
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
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Zhang G, Zheng G, Zhang H, Qiu L. MUC1 induces the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment to promote the growth and metastasis of cholangiocarcinoma through the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110091. [PMID: 37018979 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in the progression of cholangiocarcinoma. This study aims to explore whether Mucin 1 (MUC1) regulates Foxp3+ Treg cells in the TME of cholangiocarcinoma through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. High-throughput sequencing dataset in the GEO database combined with GeneCards and Phenolyzer databases was used to obtain key genes in cholangiocarcinoma, followed by downstream pathway prediction. The relationship among MUC1, EGFR, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was explored. CD4+ T cells extracted from peripheral blood were induced to differentiate into Treg cells, followed by co-culture with cholangiocarcinoma cells. A mouse model was constructed to detect the role of MUC1 in the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells, malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma, and tumorigenesis in vivo. MUC1, highly expressed in cholangiocarcinoma, might be involved in cholangiocarcinoma development. MUC1 interacted with the EGFR to activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. MUC1 overexpression could activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which promoted the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells in the TME and the malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma cells both in vitro and in vivo and enhanced tumorigenesis in vivo. MUC1 may interact with EGFR to activate the EGFR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which induces the accumulation of Foxp3+ Treg cells, enhancing the malignant phenotypes of cholangiocarcinoma cells and tumorigenesis in vivo and ultimately augmenting cholangiocarcinoma growth and metastasis.
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Mocan LP, Rusu I, Melincovici CS, Boșca BA, Mocan T, Crăciun R, Spârchez Z, Iacobescu M, Mihu CM. The Role of Immunohistochemistry in the Differential Diagnosis between Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma, Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Liver Metastasis, as Well as Its Prognostic Value. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13091542. [PMID: 37174934 PMCID: PMC10177238 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13091542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is the second most frequent primary hepatic malignant tumor, after hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its incidence has risen worldwide, yet the only potentially curative treatment, surgical resection, is seldom applicable, and the median overall survival remains extremely low. So far, there are no personalized therapy regimens. This study investigated whether routine immunohistochemical stains have diagnostic and/or prognostic value in iCCA. Clinical, imaging, and pathology data were retrospectively gathered for patients diagnosed with iCCA, HCC, or liver metastases assessed using liver needle biopsies. Three study groups with an equal number of cases (n = 65) were formed. In the iCCA group, CK19, CA19-9, CK7, and CEA demonstrated the highest sensitivities (100%, 100%, 93.7%, and 82.6%, respectively). The most relevant stains used for diagnosing HCCs were Glypican 3, CD34 (sinusoidal pattern), and Hep Par 1, with corresponding sensitivities of 100%, 100%, and 98.2%. The immunohistochemical panels for diagnosing metastatic tumors were chosen after correlating the clinical data and morphologic H&E aspects. Moderate/intensely positive CK7 expression and absent/low amount of intratumoral immune cells were favorable prognostic factors and correlated with increased overall survival in both the univariate analysis and the multivariate regression adjusted for age, existence of cirrhosis, number of tumors, and tumor differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Patricia Mocan
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Rusu
- Department of Pathology, "Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Stanca Melincovici
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bianca Adina Boșca
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Mocan
- UBBMed Department, Babeș-Balyai University, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rareș Crăciun
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 3rd Medical Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Zeno Spârchez
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 3rd Medical Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria Iacobescu
- Department of Proteomics and Metabolomics, MedFUTURE Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Mihaela Mihu
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Milardi G, Lleo A. Tumor-Infiltrating B Lymphocytes: Promising Immunotherapeutic Targets for Primary Liver Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072182. [PMID: 37046842 PMCID: PMC10093314 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the fourth most lethal primary cancers worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need for therapeutic strategies, including immune cell targeting therapies. The heterogeneity of liver cancer is partially explained by the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where adaptive and innate immune system cells are the main components. Pioneering studies of primary liver cancers revealed that tumor-infiltrating immune cells and their dynamic interaction with cancer cells significantly impacted carcinogenesis, playing an important role in cancer immune evasion and responses to immunotherapy treatment. In particular, B cells may play a prominent role and have a controversial function in the TME. In this work, we highlight the effect of B lymphocytes as tumor infiltrates in relation to primary liver cancers and their potential prognostic value. We also present the key pathways underlying B-cell interactions within the TME, as well as the way that a comprehensive characterization of B-cell biology can be exploited to develop novel immune-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Milardi
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Labaratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
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Mocan LP, Craciun R, Grapa C, Melincovici CS, Rusu I, Al Hajjar N, Sparchez Z, Leucuta D, Ilies M, Sparchez M, Mocan T, Mihu CM. PD-L1 expression on immune cells, but not on tumor cells, is a favorable prognostic factor for patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:1003-1014. [PMID: 36251029 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03309-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma, the second most common liver malignancy, after hepatocarcinoma is highly aggressive and usually diagnosed in advanced cases. In the era of personalized medicine, targeted therapy protocols are limited for cholangiocarcinoma and the only potential curative treatment, surgical resection, is seldom applicable.This retrospective study included all cases with pathology-confirmed intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma admitted in a tertiary healthcare facility during a 10-year timeframe. Clinical information, laboratory values, imaging studies, and survival data were retrieved, and PD-L1 immunostaining was performed on representative pathology slides, for each case. From the total of 136 included cases (49 surgical resections and 87 liver biopsies), 38.97% showed PD-L1 positivity on tumoral cells, 34.8% on tumor infiltrating immune cells, 10.11% on epithelial cells within the peritumoral area and 15.95% on immune cells from the peritumoral area. Overall survival was significantly higher in the first two scenarios. However, after adjusting for age, tumor number, tumor size, and tumor differentiation in a multivariate analysis, only PD-L1 positivity on tumor infiltrating immune cells remained a favorable prognostic for survival. High immune cell counts also correlated with increased overall survival.Our study demonstrated that PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint pathway in the microenvironment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma bears prognostic significance. PD-L1 expression on immune cells, in both resection and biopsy specimens, might be a strong independent predictor for a favorable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Patricia Mocan
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rares Craciun
- 3rd Medical Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristiana Grapa
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Stanca Melincovici
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Rusu
- 3rd Pathology Department, Institute for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Nadim Al Hajjar
- 3rd Surgical Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Zeno Sparchez
- 3rd Medical Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Leucuta
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria Ilies
- Department of Proteomics and Metabolomics, MedFUTURE Research Center for Advanced Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaela Sparchez
- 2nd Pediatrics Department, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Mocan
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Octavian Fodor" Institute for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Carmen Mihaela Mihu
- Department of Histology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Ailia MJ, Heo J, Yoo SY. Navigating through the PD-1/PDL-1 Landscape: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Their Influence on Immunotherapy and Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076495. [PMID: 37047482 PMCID: PMC10095164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to assess the prognostic significance of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PDL-1) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library database searches were conducted, revealing nine relevant cohort studies (seven PDL-1 and three PD-1). Our meta-analysis showed that PD-1/PDL-1 was a marker of poor survival, regardless of the assessment method (PD-1 overall survival (OS): hazard ratio (HR) 2.40; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.30–4.42; disease-free survival (DFS): HR 2.12; 95% CI, 1.45–3.10; PDL-1: OS: HR 3.61; 95% CI, 2.75–4.75; and DFS: HR 2.74; 95% CI, 2.09–3.59). Additionally, high level of PD-1/PDL-1 expression was associated with aging, multiple tumors, high alpha-fetoprotein levels, and advanced Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage. This high level significantly predicted a poor prognosis for HCC, suggesting that anti-PD-1 therapy is plausible for patients with HCC. Furthermore, HIF-1 induces PD-1 expression, and PD1lowSOCS3high is associated with a better prognosis. Taken together, combination therapy may be the key to effective immunotherapy. Thus, exploring other markers, such as HIF-1 and SOCS3, along with PD-1/PDL-1 immunotherapy, may lead to improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Joan Ailia
- BIO-IT Foundry Technology Institute, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Heo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Pusan National University and Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - So Young Yoo
- BIO-IT Foundry Technology Institute, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +82-51-510-3402
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Zhao LM, Shi AD, Yang Y, Liu ZL, Hu XQ, Shu LZ, Tang YC, Zhang ZL. Advances in molecular and cell therapy for immunotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1140103. [PMID: 37064120 PMCID: PMC10090456 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1140103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly malignant tumor of the hepatobiliary system that has failed to respond to many traditional therapies to a certain extent, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In recent years, the new therapeutic schemes based on immunology have fundamentally changed the systemic treatment of various malignant tumors to a certain extent. In view of the immunogenicity of CCA, during the occurrence and development of CCA, some immunosuppressive substances are released from cells and immunosuppressive microenvironment is formed to promote the escape immune response of its own cells, thus enhancing the malignancy of the tumor and reducing the sensitivity of the tumor to drugs. Some immunotherapy regimens for cholangiocarcinoma have produced good clinical effects. Immunotherapy has more precise characteristics and less adverse reactions compared with traditional treatment approaches. However, due to the unique immune characteristics of CCA, some patients with CCA may not benefit in the long term or not benefit at all after current immunotherapy. At present, the immunotherapy of CCA that have been clinically studied mainly include molecular therapy and cell therapy. In this article, we generalized and summarized the current status of immunotherapy strategies including molecular therapy and cell therapy in CCA in clinical studies, and we outlined our understanding of how to enhance the clinical application of these immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-ming Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - An-da Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxian Central Hospital, Heze, China
| | - Zeng-li Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Li-Zhuang Shu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yong-chang Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-chang Tang, ; Zong-li Zhang,
| | - Zong-li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-chang Tang, ; Zong-li Zhang,
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He J, Kang D, Xu M, Han Z, Guo W, Fu F, Qiu L, Zheng L, Xi G, Wang W, Ren W, Han X, Tu H, Li L, Wang C, Chen J. Combining the guidelines and multiphoton imaging methods to improve the prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in breast cancer. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2023:e202300060. [PMID: 36965036 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202300060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Multiphoton microscopy (MPM) was introduced to label-freely obtain tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) images from a total of 611 patients, and the prognostic value of TILs in breast cancer was assessed by the MPM method (TILs-MPM) and guidelines method proposed by the International Immuno-Oncology Biomarker Working Group (TILs-WG), respectively. Moreover, the clinical (CLI) model, TILs-WG + TILs-MPM model, and full model (CLI + TILs-WG + TILs-MPM) were developed to investigate the prognostic value of TILs. The results show that TILs-WG performs better in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative subgroup, and TILs-MPM is comparable with TILs-WG in the ER-negative subgroup, but has the best performance in the ER-positive subgroup. Furthermore, the TILs-WG + TILs-MPM model can significantly improve the prognostic power compared with the TILs-WG model, and the full model has excellent performance, with high area under the curve (AUC) and hazard ratio (HR) in both ER-positive, ER-negative subgroups, and the complete cohort. Our results suggest that the combination of TILs-WG with TILs-MPM model can greatly improve the prognostic value of TILs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia He
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Deyong Kang
- Department of Pathology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Meifang Xu
- Department of Pathology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Zhonghua Han
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Wenhui Guo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Fangmeng Fu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Lida Qiu
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
- College of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Liqin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Gangqin Xi
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Wenjiao Ren
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Xiahui Han
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Haohua Tu
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Lianhuang Li
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Jianxin Chen
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
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Vita F, Olaizola I, Amato F, Rae C, Marco S, Banales JM, Braconi C. Heterogeneity of Cholangiocarcinoma Immune Biology. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060846. [PMID: 36980187 PMCID: PMC10047186 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs) are aggressive tumors arising along the biliary tract epithelium, whose incidence and mortality are increasing. CCAs are highly desmoplastic cancers characterized by a dense tumor microenvironment (TME), in which each single component plays a fundamental role in shaping CCA initiation, progression and resistance to therapies. The crosstalk between cancer cells and TME can affect the recruitment, infiltration and differentiation of immune cells. According to the stage of the disease and to intra- and inter-patient heterogeneity, TME may contribute to either protumoral or antitumoral activities. Therefore, a better understanding of the effect of each immune cell subtype may open the path to new personalized immune therapeutic strategies for the management of CCA. In this review, we describe the role of immune cells in CCA initiation and progression, and their crosstalk with both cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the cancer-stem-cell-like (CSC) niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Vita
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Olaizola
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute–Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 San Sebastian, Spain; (I.O.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Francesco Amato
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Colin Rae
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Sergi Marco
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute–Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 San Sebastian, Spain; (I.O.); (J.M.B.)
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- National Institute for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd, “Instituto de Salud Carlos III”), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Chiara Braconi
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (F.V.); (F.A.); (C.R.); (S.M.)
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow G12 0YN, UK
- Correspondence:
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Brummel K, Eerkens AL, de Bruyn M, Nijman HW. Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes: from prognosis to treatment selection. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:451-458. [PMID: 36564565 PMCID: PMC9938191 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-02119-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are considered crucial in anti-tumour immunity. Accordingly, the presence of TILs contains prognostic and predictive value. In 2011, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the prognostic value of TILs across cancer types. Since then, the advent of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has renewed interest in the analysis of TILs. In this review, we first describe how our understanding of the prognostic value of TIL has changed over the last decade. New insights on novel TIL subsets are discussed and give a broader view on the prognostic effect of TILs in cancer. Apart from prognostic value, evidence on the predictive significance of TILs in the immune therapy era are discussed, as well as new techniques, such as machine learning that strive to incorporate these predictive capacities within clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen Brummel
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke L Eerkens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marco de Bruyn
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans W Nijman
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Zhang G, Yang C, Zhao C, Xian F, Qing D, Guo Q, Song J, Liu X, Bie J. Prognostic Value of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients Treated with Definitive Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2023; 15:101-112. [PMID: 36743459 PMCID: PMC9896972 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s395191] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been shown to have prognostic value in several common cancers. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of NLR in patients with advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT). Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 158 patients with advanced ESCC who received dCRT from January 2012 to December 2018. The NLR for different treatment stages was calculated based on laboratory test results. The Kaplan-Meier (KM) method and Cox proportional regression model were used to analyse the relationship between NLR and overall survival (OS). Results The mean NLR of 158 patients with ESCC was 3.403 ± 2.479. The pre-treatment NLR cut-off was 4.839, and patients were divided into the low NLR group (NLR < 4.839) and the high NLR group (NLR ≥ 4.839). NLR in patients with ESCC was related to N stage (P < 0.05). The KM analysis showed that the median OS of all enrolled patients was 29.3 months, the median OS periods of patients in the high and low NLR groups were 15.6 and 35.8 months, respectively, and the OS of the low NLR group was better than that of the high NLR group (P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, NLR was an independent prognostic factor that affects the prognosis of patients with ESCC receiving dCRT. Furthermore, patients who maintained a high NLR before and after treatment showed worse clinical outcomes than the other groups. Conclusion Our findings suggest that NLR can effectively assess the prognosis of patients with advanced ESCC undergoing dCRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guojun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chuan Yang
- Department of Oncology, Guangyuan Central Hospital, Guangyuan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Caixia Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Xian
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dong Qing
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiyu Guo
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junmei Song
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xilin Liu
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Bie
- Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Jun Bie, Department of Oncology, Nanchong Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College of North Sichuan Medical College, Hongguang Road, Shunqing District, Nanchong, People’s Republic of China, Email
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Yu X, Zhu L, Wang T, Chen J. Immune microenvironment of cholangiocarcinoma: Biological concepts and treatment strategies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1037945. [PMID: 37138880 PMCID: PMC10150070 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1037945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma is characterized by a poor prognosis with limited treatment and management options. Chemotherapy using gemcitabine with cisplatin is the only available first-line therapy for patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma, although it offers only palliation and yields a median survival of < 1 year. Recently there has been a resurgence of immunotherapy studies focusing on the ability of immunotherapy to inhibit cancer growth by impacting the tumor microenvironment. Based on the TOPAZ-1 trial, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved the combination of durvalumab and gemcitabine with cisplatin as the first-line treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. However, immunotherapy, like immune checkpoint blockade, is less effective in cholangiocarcinoma than in other types of cancer. Although several factors such as the exuberant desmoplastic reaction are responsible for cholangiocarcinoma treatment resistance, existing literature on cholangiocarcinoma cites the inflammatory and immunosuppressive environment as the most common factor. However, mechanisms activating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment contributing to cholangiocarcinoma drug resistance are complicated. Therefore, gaining insight into the interplay between immune cells and cholangiocarcinoma cells, as well as the natural development and evolution of the immune tumor microenvironment, would provide targets for therapeutic intervention and improve therapeutic efficacy by developing multimodal and multiagent immunotherapeutic approaches of cholangiocarcinoma to overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the role of the inflammatory microenvironment-cholangiocarcinoma crosstalk and reinforce the importance of inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment, thereby highlighting the explanatory and therapeutic shortcomings of immunotherapy monotherapy and proposing potentially promising combinational immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhe Yu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Chengdu Second People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lingling Zhu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Jiang Chen,
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Yang Y, Zhang X. An overview of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: from here to where? Front Oncol 2023; 13:1171098. [PMID: 37197436 PMCID: PMC10183586 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1171098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA) contains perihilar cholangiocarcinoma and distal cholangiocarcinoma both of which can arise at any point of the biliary tree and originate from disparate anatomical sites. Generally, the incidence of eCCA is increasing globally. Though surgical resection is the principal treatment of choice for the early stages of eCCA, optimal survival remains restricted by the high risk of recurrence when most patients are present with unresectable disease or distant metastasis. Furthermore, both intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity make it laborious to determine molecularly targeted therapies. In this review, we mainly focused on current findings in the field of eCCA, mostly including epidemiology, genomic abnormalities, molecular pathogenesis, tumor microenvironment, and other details while a summary of the biological mechanisms driving eCCA may shed light on intricate tumorigenesis and feasible treatment strategies.
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Kudelova E, Smolar M, Holubekova V, Hornakova A, Dvorska D, Lucansky V, Koklesova L, Kudela E, Kubatka P. Genetic Heterogeneity, Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314937. [PMID: 36499265 PMCID: PMC9735793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity of triple-negative breast cancer is well known at clinical, histopathological, and molecular levels. Genomic instability and greater mutation rates, which may result in the creation of neoantigens and enhanced immunogenicity, are additional characteristics of this breast cancer type. Clinical outcome is poor due to early age of onset, high metastatic potential, and increased likelihood of distant recurrence. Consequently, efforts to elucidate molecular mechanisms of breast cancer development, progression, and metastatic spread have been initiated to improve treatment options and improve outcomes for these patients. The extremely complex and heterogeneous tumor immune microenvironment is made up of several cell types and commonly possesses disorganized gene expression. Altered signaling pathways are mainly associated with mutated genes including p53, PIK3CA, and MAPK, and which are positively correlated with genes regulating immune response. Of note, particular immunity-associated genes could be used in prognostic indexes to assess the most effective management. Recent findings highlight the fact that long non-coding RNAs also play an important role in shaping tumor microenvironment formation, and can mediate tumor immune evasion. Identification of molecular signatures, through the use of multi-omics approaches, and effector pathways that drive early stages of the carcinogenic process are important steps in developing new strategies for targeted cancer treatment and prevention. Advances in immunotherapy by remodeling the host immune system to eradicate tumor cells have great promise to lead to novel therapeutic strategies. Current research is focused on combining immune checkpoint inhibition with chemotherapy, PARP inhibitors, cancer vaccines, or natural killer cell therapy. Targeted therapies may improve therapeutic response, eliminate therapeutic resistance, and improve overall patient survival. In the future, these evolving advancements should be implemented for personalized medicine and state-of-art management of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kudelova
- Clinic of Surgery and Transplant Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Marek Smolar
- Clinic of Surgery and Transplant Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Holubekova
- Biomedical Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Hornakova
- Biomedical Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Dana Dvorska
- Biomedical Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Vincent Lucansky
- Biomedical Centre, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Lenka Koklesova
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Erik Kudela
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
- Correspondence:
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
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Ruff SM, Shannon AH, Pawlik TM. Advances in Targeted Immunotherapy for Hepatobiliary Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13961. [PMID: 36430440 PMCID: PMC9698563 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer of the hepatobiliary system can be divided into primary liver cancer and biliary tract cancer (BTC), which includes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), and gallbladder cancer (GBC). These aggressive cancers often present at an advanced stage or among patients with poorly preserved liver function. The primary treatment for HCC and BTC when diagnosed early is surgical resection, but given the high rate of recurrence and often advanced stage at diagnosis, many patients will require systemic therapy. Unfortunately, even with systemic therapy, long-term survival is poor. The immune system plays an important role in preventing cancer progression. The unique immune environment of the liver and subsequent alterations to the immune microenvironment by tumor cells to create a favorable microenvironment plays a key role in the progression of HCC and BTC. Due to the paucity of effective systemic therapies and distinctive immune environment of the liver, research and clinical trials are investigating the use of immunotherapy in HCC and BTC. This review will focus on current immunotherapies and emerging data for the treatment of HCC and BTC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Timothy M. Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Wexner Medical Center, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 395 W. 12th Ave., Suite 670, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Chung A, Nasralla D, Quaglia A. Understanding the Immunoenvironment of Primary Liver Cancer: A Histopathology Perspective. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:1149-1169. [PMID: 36349146 PMCID: PMC9637345 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s382310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most common cancers worldwide, primary liver cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality. Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma represent the majority of primary liver cancer cases. Despite advances in the development of novel anti-cancer therapies that exploit targets within the immune system, survival rates from liver cancer remain poor. Furthermore, responses to immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have revealed limited and variable responses amongst patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, although combination immunotherapies have shown recent breakthroughs in clinical trials. This has shifted the focus towards improving our understanding of the underlying immune and molecular characteristics of liver tumours that may influence their response to immune-modulating treatments. In this review, we outline the complex interactions that occur in the tumour microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma, respectively, from a histopathological perspective. We explore the potential role of a classification system based on immune-specific characteristics within each cancer type, the importance of understanding inter- and intra-tumoural heterogeneity and consider the future role of histopathology and novel technologies within this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Chung
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - David Nasralla
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alberto Quaglia
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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Apport de l'immunothérapie dans le traitement des cancers des voies biliaires avancés. Bull Cancer 2022; 109:11S11-11S20. [DOI: 10.1016/s0007-4551(22)00464-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Kazemi MH, Sadri M, Najafi A, Rahimi A, Baghernejadan Z, Khorramdelazad H, Falak R. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes for treatment of solid tumors: It takes two to tango? Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018962. [PMID: 36389779 PMCID: PMC9651159 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), frontline soldiers of the adaptive immune system, are recruited into the tumor site to fight against tumors. However, their small number and reduced activity limit their ability to overcome the tumor. Enhancement of TILs number and activity against tumors has been of interest for a long time. A lack of knowledge about the tumor microenvironment (TME) has limited success in primary TIL therapies. Although the advent of engineered T cells has revolutionized the immunotherapy methods of hematologic cancers, the heterogeneity of solid tumors warrants the application of TILs with a wide range of specificity. Recent advances in understanding TME, immune exhaustion, and immune checkpoints have paved the way for TIL therapy regimens. Nowadays, TIL therapy has regained attention as a safe personalized immunotherapy, and currently, several clinical trials are evaluating the efficacy of TIL therapy in patients who have failed conventional immunotherapies. Gaining favorable outcomes following TIL therapy of patients with metastatic melanoma, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer has raised hope in patients with refractory solid tumors, too. Nevertheless, TIL therapy procedures face several challenges, such as high cost, timely expansion, and technical challenges in selecting and activating the cells. Herein, we reviewed the recent advances in the TIL therapy of solid tumors and discussed the challenges and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Kazemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadri
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Najafi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rahimi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Baghernejadan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Falak
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Xiong J, Wang QQ. Mechanisms and strategies to overcome immunotherapy resistance in hepatobiliary malignancies. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2022; 21:430-439. [PMID: 35907687 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Unprecedented advances have been achieved in hepatobiliary cancer treatment with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). However, the efficacy of ICB in patients with hepatobiliary malignancies is still limited. Resistance to immunotherapies is often orchestrated by complicated tumor-host-microenvironment interactions but could also occur after initial efficacy, mostly when only partial responses are obtained. Clarification of cancer-resistance mechanisms will be beneficial to provide the rationale for the administration of personalized drugs. Here, we review the factors related to resistance to immune-targeted therapies in hepatobiliary malignancies and discuss the potential strategies for overcoming resistance and future directions of immunotherapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Xiong
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qing-Qing Wang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Carloni R, Rizzo A, Ricci AD, Federico AD, De Luca R, Guven DC, Yalcin S, Brandi G. Targeting tumor microenvironment for cholangiocarcinoma: Opportunities for precision medicine. Transl Oncol 2022; 25:101514. [PMID: 35977458 PMCID: PMC9396390 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
CCA has a dismal prognosis, and it is usually diagnosed in advanced stage for which available treatments have limited efficacy. CCA TME presents an abundant desmoplastic stroma and exhibits a high heterogeneity. TME plays a central role in cancer development and in the resistance to treatments. Treatments targeting the TME in association with cytotoxic agents could represent a promising therapeutic strategy.
Systemic treatments (e.g., chemotherapy and targeted therapies) have limited efficacy for patients with locally advanced – unresectable – and metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), with an overall survival of less than a year. Tumor microenvironment (TME) represents the ecosystem surrounding the tumor which comprises immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and a wide range of soluble factors. CCA TME is characterized by an abundant desmoplastic stroma, exhibits a high heterogeneity and it plays a central role in cancer onset and progression. There is growing evidence suggesting that it is possible to target TME in association with other treatment modalities, such as cytotoxic chemotherapy or targeted therapies, paving the way to possible combination strategies with a synergistic effect. Herein, we describe the components of CCA TME – such as cancer-associated fibroblasts and other cells of pivotal importance - with their most relevant interactions, focusing on the preclinical rationale for the development of effective anticancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Carloni
- Department of Specialized, Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti, 9, Bologna 40138, Italy; Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni, 15, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rizzo
- Struttura Semplice Dipartimentale di Oncologia Medica per la Presa in Carico Globale del Paziente Oncologico "Don Tonino Bello", I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Tumori "Giovanni Paolo II", Viale Orazio Flacco 65, Bari 70124, Italy.
| | - Angela Dalia Ricci
- Medical Oncology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology, "Saverio de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Federico
- Department of Specialized, Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti, 9, Bologna 40138, Italy; Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni, 15, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Raffaele De Luca
- Department of Surgical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Tumori " Giovanni Paolo ", Bari, Italy
| | - Deniz Can Guven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Suayib Yalcin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Giovanni Brandi
- Department of Specialized, Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti, 9, Bologna 40138, Italy; Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni, 15, Bologna 40138, Italy
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