1
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Harrer DC, Eder M, Barden M, Pan H, Herr W, Abken H. Ectopic PU.1 Expression Provides Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T Cells with Innate Cell Capacities Including IFN-β Release. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2737. [PMID: 39123467 PMCID: PMC11311516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16152737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has achieved extraordinary success in eliminating B cell malignancies; however, so far, it has shown limited efficacy in the treatment of solid tumors, which is thought to be due to insufficient CAR T cell activation. We hypothesized that the transcription factor PU.1, a master regulator of innate cell functionality, may augment pro-inflammatory CAR T cell activation. T cells were engineered with a CEA-specific CAR together with the constitutive expression of PU.1. CAR-redirected T cell activation was recorded for canonical functionality in vitro under conditions of prolonged repetitive antigen exposure. Ectopic PU.1 expression in CAR T cells upregulated the costimulatory receptors CD40, CD80, CD86, and CD70, which, unexpectedly, did not augment effector functions but hampered the upregulation of 4-1BB, decreased IL-2 production, reduced CAR T cell proliferation, and impaired their cytotoxic capacities. Under "stress" conditions of repetitive engagement of cognate tumor cells, CAR T cells with ectopic PU.1 showed reduced persistence, and finally failed to control the growth of cancer cells. Mechanistically, PU.1 caused CAR T cells to secrete IFN-β, a cytokine known to promote CAR T cell attrition and apoptosis. Collectively, PU.1 can polarize the functional capacities of CAR T cells towards innate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christoph Harrer
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Division of Genetic Immunotherapy, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (M.E.); (M.B.); (H.P.); (H.A.)
| | - Matthias Eder
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Division of Genetic Immunotherapy, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (M.E.); (M.B.); (H.P.); (H.A.)
| | - Markus Barden
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Division of Genetic Immunotherapy, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (M.E.); (M.B.); (H.P.); (H.A.)
| | - Hong Pan
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Division of Genetic Immunotherapy, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (M.E.); (M.B.); (H.P.); (H.A.)
| | - Wolfgang Herr
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
| | - Hinrich Abken
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Division of Genetic Immunotherapy, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (M.E.); (M.B.); (H.P.); (H.A.)
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2
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Balagopalan L, Moreno T, Qin H, Angeles BC, Kondo T, Yi J, McIntire KM, Alvinez N, Pallikkuth S, Lee ME, Yamane H, Tran AD, Youkharibache P, Cachau RE, Taylor N, Samelson LE. Generation of antitumor chimeric antigen receptors incorporating T cell signaling motifs. Sci Signal 2024; 17:eadp8569. [PMID: 39042728 PMCID: PMC11389647 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adp8569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been used to successfully treat various blood cancers, but adverse effects have limited their potential. Here, we developed chimeric adaptor proteins (CAPs) and CAR tyrosine kinases (CAR-TKs) in which the intracellular ζ T cell receptor (TCRζ) chain was replaced with intracellular protein domains to stimulate signaling downstream of the TCRζ chain. CAPs contain adaptor domains and the kinase domain of ZAP70, whereas CAR-TKs contain only ZAP70 domains. We hypothesized that CAPs and CAR-TKs would be more potent than CARs because they would bypass both the steps that define the signaling threshold of TCRζ and the inhibitory regulation of upstream molecules. CAPs were too potent and exhibited high tonic signaling in vitro. In contrast, CAR-TKs exhibited high antitumor efficacy and significantly enhanced long-term tumor clearance in leukemia-bearing NSG mice as compared with the conventional CD19-28ζ-CAR-T cells. CAR-TKs were activated in a manner independent of the kinase Lck and displayed slower phosphorylation kinetics and prolonged signaling compared with the 28ζ-CAR. Lck inhibition attenuated CAR-TK cell exhaustion and improved long-term function. The distinct signaling properties of CAR-TKs may therefore be harnessed to improve the in vivo efficacy of T cells engineered to express an antitumor chimeric receptor.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Humans
- Signal Transduction/immunology
- Mice
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/metabolism
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- ZAP-70 Protein-Tyrosine Kinase/metabolism
- ZAP-70 Protein-Tyrosine Kinase/genetics
- ZAP-70 Protein-Tyrosine Kinase/immunology
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Phosphorylation
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Balagopalan
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Taylor Moreno
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Haiying Qin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin C Angeles
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Taisuke Kondo
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jason Yi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Katherine M McIntire
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Neriah Alvinez
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Sandeep Pallikkuth
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Mariah E Lee
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Hidehiro Yamane
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Andy D Tran
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics (CCR Microscopy Core), National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Philippe Youkharibache
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Raul E Cachau
- Integrated Data Science Section, Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Naomi Taylor
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lawrence E Samelson
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
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3
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Mpekris F, Panagi M, Charalambous A, Voutouri C, Stylianopoulos T. Modulating cancer mechanopathology to restore vascular function and enhance immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101626. [PMID: 38944037 PMCID: PMC11293360 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumor pathology, characterized by abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME), challenges therapeutic effectiveness. Mechanical factors, including increased tumor stiffness and accumulation of intratumoral forces, can determine the success of cancer treatments, defining the tumor's "mechanopathology" profile. These abnormalities cause extensive vascular compression, leading to hypoperfusion and hypoxia. Hypoperfusion hinders drug delivery, while hypoxia creates an unfavorable TME, promoting tumor progression through immunosuppression, heightened metastatic potential, drug resistance, and chaotic angiogenesis. Strategies targeting TME mechanopathology, such as vascular and stroma normalization, hold promise in enhancing cancer therapies with some already advancing to the clinic. Normalization can be achieved using anti-angiogenic agents, mechanotherapeutics, immune checkpoint inhibitors, engineered bacterial therapeutics, metronomic nanomedicine, and ultrasound sonopermeation. Here, we review the methods developed to rectify tumor mechanopathology, which have even led to cures in preclinical models, and discuss their bench-to-bedside translation, including the derivation of biomarkers from tumor mechanopathology for personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Mpekris
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Myrofora Panagi
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Antonia Charalambous
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Chrysovalantis Voutouri
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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4
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Jasim SA, Farber IM, Noraldeen SAM, Bansal P, Alsaab HO, Abdullaev B, Alkhafaji AT, Alawadi AH, Hamzah HF, Mohammed BA. Incorporation of immunotherapies and nanomedicine to better normalize angiogenesis-based cancer treatment. Microvasc Res 2024; 154:104691. [PMID: 38703993 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2024.104691] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Neoadjuvant targeting of tumor angiogenesis has been developed and approved for the treatment of malignant tumors. However, vascular disruption leads to tumor hypoxia, which exacerbates the treatment process and causes drug resistance. In addition, successful delivery of therapeutic agents and efficacy of radiotherapy require normal vascular networks and sufficient oxygen, which complete tumor vasculopathy hinders their efficacy. In view of this controversy, an optimal dose of FDA-approved anti-angiogenic agents and combination with other therapies, such as immunotherapy and the use of nanocarrier-mediated targeted therapy, could improve therapeutic regimens, reduce the need for administration of high doses of chemotherapeutic agents and subsequently reduce side effects. Here, we review the mechanism of anti-angiogenic agents, highlight the challenges of existing therapies, and present how the combination of immunotherapies and nanomedicine could improve angiogenesis-based tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irina M Farber
- Department of children's diseases of the F. Filatov clinical institute of children's health, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of Health of Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Pooja Bansal
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Hashem O Alsaab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bekhzod Abdullaev
- Research Department of Biotechnology, New Uzbekistan University, Mustaqillik Avenue 54, Tashkent 100007, Uzbekistan; Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Central Asian University, Milliy Bog Street 264, Tashkent 111221, Uzbekistan..
| | | | - Ahmed Hussien Alawadi
- College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Qadisiyyah, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Hamza Fadhel Hamzah
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, AL-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
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5
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Tang L, Sun Q, Li M, Yu X, Meng J, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Zeng A, Li Z, Liu Y, Xu X, Guo W. Broadening anticancer spectrum by preprocessing and treatment of T- lymphocytes expressed FcγRI and monoclonal antibodies for refractory cancers. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1400177. [PMID: 38953027 PMCID: PMC11215118 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1400177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapies have achieved remarkable success in the treatment of hematological tumors. However, given the distinct features of solid tumors, particularly heterogeneity, metabolic aggressiveness, and fewer immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME), the practical utility of CAR-T cells for solid tumors remains as a challenging issue. Meanwhile, although anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) has shown clinical efficacy, most mAbs also show limited clinical benefits for solid tumors due mainly to the issues associated with the lack of immune cells in TME. Thus, the infiltration of targeted immunological active cells into TME could generate synergistic efficacy for mAbs. Methods We present a combinational strategy for solid tumor treatment, which combines armored-T cells to express Fc-gamma receptor I (FcγRI) fragment on the surfaces for targeting various tumors with therapeutically useful mAbs. Choosing CD20 and HER-2 as the targets, we characterized the in vitro and in vivo efficacy and latent mechanism of the combination drug by using flow cytometry, ELISA and other methods. Results The combination and preprocessing of armored T-cells with corresponding antibody of Rituximab and Pertuzumab exerted profound anti-tumor effects, which is demonstrated to be mediated by synergistically produced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) effects. Meanwhile, mAb was able to carry armored-T cell by preprocessing for the infiltration to TME in cell derived xenograft (CDX) model. Conclusions This combination strategy showed a significant increase of safety profiles from the reduction of antibody doses. More importantly, the present strategy could be a versatile tool for a broad spectrum of cancer treatment, with a simple pairing of engineered T cells and a conventional antibody.
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MESH Headings
- Receptors, IgG/immunology
- Receptors, IgG/metabolism
- Humans
- Animals
- Mice
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Neoplasms/drug therapy
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Receptor, ErbB-2/immunology
- Receptor, ErbB-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Female
- Antigens, CD20/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qinyi Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, The School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Research and Development, RegeneCore Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinguo Meng
- Department of Research and Development, RegeneCore Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Research and Development, RegeneCore Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxiao Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aizhong Zeng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhuolan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyu Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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6
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Alviano AM, Biondi M, Grassenis E, Biondi A, Serafini M, Tettamanti S. Fully equipped CARs to address tumor heterogeneity, enhance safety, and improve the functionality of cellular immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1407992. [PMID: 38887285 PMCID: PMC11180895 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1407992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Although adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells has achieved unprecedented response rates in patients with certain hematological malignancies, this therapeutic modality is still far from fulfilling its remarkable potential, especially in the context of solid cancers. Antigen escape variants, off-tumor destruction of healthy tissues expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), poor CAR-T cell persistence, and the occurrence of functional exhaustion represent some of the most prominent hurdles that limit CAR-T cell ability to induce long-lasting remissions with a tolerable adverse effect profile. In this review, we summarize the main approaches that have been developed to face such bottlenecks, including the adapter CAR (AdCAR) system, Boolean-logic gating, epitope editing, the modulation of cell-intrinsic signaling pathways, and the incorporation of safety switches to precisely control CAR-T cell activation. We also discuss the most pressing issues pertaining to the selection of co-stimulatory domains, with a focus on strategies aimed at promoting CAR-T cell persistence and optimal antitumor functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Maria Alviano
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Biondi
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Erica Grassenis
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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7
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Englezos D, Voutouri C, Stylianopoulos T. Machine learning analysis reveals tumor stiffness and hypoperfusion as biomarkers predictive of cancer treatment efficacy. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101944. [PMID: 38552284 PMCID: PMC10990740 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101944] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
In the pursuit of advancing cancer therapy, this study explores the predictive power of machine learning in analyzing tumor characteristics, specifically focusing on the effects of tumor stiffness and perfusion (i.e., blood flow) on treatment efficacy. Recent advancements in oncology have highlighted the significance of these physiological properties of the tumor microenvironment in determining treatment outcomes. We delve into the relationship between these tumor attributes and the effectiveness of cancer therapies in preclinical tumor models. Utilizing robust statistical methods and machine learning algorithms, our research analyzes data from 1365 cases of various cancer types, assessing how tumor stiffness and perfusion influence the efficacy of treatment protocols. We also investigate the synergistic potential of combining drugs that modulate tumor stiffness and perfusion with standard cytotoxic treatments. By incorporating these predictors into treatment planning, our study aims to enhance the precision of cancer therapy, tailoring treatment to individual tumor profiles. Our findings demonstrate a significant correlation between stiffness/perfusion and treatment efficacy, highlighting a new way for personalized cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetris Englezos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Chrysovalantis Voutouri
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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8
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Wu X, Li T, Jiang R, Yang X, Guo H, Yang R. Targeting MHC-I molecules for cancer: function, mechanism, and therapeutic prospects. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:194. [PMID: 38041084 PMCID: PMC10693139 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01899-4] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecules of Major histocompatibility class I (MHC-I) load peptides and present them on the cell surface, which provided the immune system with the signal to detect and eliminate the infected or cancerous cells. In the context of cancer, owing to the crucial immune-regulatory roles played by MHC-I molecules, the abnormal modulation of MHC-I expression and function could be hijacked by tumor cells to escape the immune surveillance and attack, thereby promoting tumoral progression and impairing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Here we reviewed and discussed the recent studies and discoveries related to the MHC-I molecules and their multidirectional functions in the development of cancer, mainly focusing on the interactions between MHC-I and the multiple participators in the tumor microenvironment and highlighting the significance of targeting MHC-I for optimizing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy and a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature and functioning mechanism of MHC-I in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Wu
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianhang Li
- Department of Urology, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Surgical Research Center, Institute of Urology, Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongqian Guo
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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9
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Garcia JM, Burnett CE, Roybal KT. Toward the clinical development of synthetic immunity to cancer. Immunol Rev 2023; 320:83-99. [PMID: 37491719 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13245] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology (synbio) tools, such as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), have been designed to target, activate, and improve immune cell responses to tumors. These therapies have demonstrated an ability to cure patients with blood cancers. However, there are significant challenges to designing, testing, and efficiently translating these complex cell therapies for patients who do not respond or have immune refractory solid tumors. The rapid progress of synbio tools for cell therapy, particularly for cancer immunotherapy, is encouraging but our development process should be tailored to increase translational success. Particularly, next-generation cell therapies should be rooted in basic immunology, tested in more predictive preclinical models, engineered for potency with the right balance of safety, educated by clinical findings, and multi-faceted to combat a range of suppressive mechanisms. Here, we lay out five principles for engineering future cell therapies to increase the probability of clinical impact, and in the context of these principles, we provide an overview of the current state of synbio cell therapy design for cancer. Although these principles are anchored in engineering immune cells for cancer therapy, we posit that they can help guide translational synbio research for broad impact in other disease indications with high unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Garcia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, California, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute for Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- UCSF Cell Design Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Cassandra E Burnett
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, California, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute for Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- UCSF Cell Design Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kole T Roybal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, California, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute for Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- UCSF Cell Design Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
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10
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He X, Lan H, Jin K, Liu F. Can immunotherapy reinforce chemotherapy efficacy? a new perspective on colorectal cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1237764. [PMID: 37790928 PMCID: PMC10543914 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1237764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the main threats to human life (the fourth most dangerous and prevalent cancer), colorectal cancer affects many people yearly, decreases patients' quality of life, and causes irreparable financial and social damages. In addition, this type of cancer can metastasize and involve the liver in advanced stages. However, current treatments can't completely eradicate this disease. Chemotherapy and subsequent surgery can be mentioned among the current main treatments for this disease. Chemotherapy has many side effects, and regarding the treatment of this type of tumor, chemotherapy can lead to liver damage, such as steatohepatitis, steatosis, and sinus damage. These damages can eventually lead to liver failure and loss of its functions. Therefore, it seems that other treatments can be used in addition to chemotherapy to increase its efficiency and reduce its side effects. Biological therapies and immunotherapy are one of the leading suggestions for combined treatment. Antibodies (immune checkpoint blockers) and cell therapy (DC and CAR-T cells) are among the immune system-based treatments used to treat tumors. Immunotherapy targets various aspects of the tumor that may lead to 1) the recruitment of immune cells, 2) increasing the immunogenicity of tumor cells, and 3) leading to the elimination of inhibitory mechanisms established by the tumor. Therefore, immunotherapy can be used as a complementary treatment along with chemotherapy. This review will discuss different chemotherapy and immunotherapy methods for colorectal cancer. Then we will talk about the studies that have dealt with combined treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinhua Wenrong Hospital, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanrong Lan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ketao Jin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fanlong Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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11
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Weiser A, Sanchez Bergman A, Machaalani C, Bennett J, Roth P, Reimann RR, Nazarian J, Guerreiro Stucklin AS. Bridging the age gap: a review of molecularly informed treatments for glioma in adolescents and young adults. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1254645. [PMID: 37781183 PMCID: PMC10533987 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1254645] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors and a major cause of cancer-related mortality in children (age <15 years), adolescents and young adults (AYA, ages 15-39 years), and adults (age >39 years). Molecular pathology has helped enhance the characterization of these tumors, revealing a heterogeneous and ever more complex group of malignancies. Recent molecular analyses have led to an increased appreciation of common genomic alterations prevalent across all ages. The 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) CNS tumor classification, 5th edition (WHO CNS5) brings forward a nomenclature distinguishing "pediatric-type" and "adult-type" gliomas. The spectrum of gliomas in AYA comprises both "pediatric-like" and "adult-like" tumor entities but remains ill-defined. With fragmentation of clinical management between pediatric and adult centers, AYAs face challenges related to gaps in medical care, lower rates of enrollment in clinical trials and additional psychosocial and economic challenges. This calls for a rethinking of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, to improve access to appropriate testing and potentially beneficial treatments to patients of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Weiser
- Translational Brain Tumor Research Group, Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Astrid Sanchez Bergman
- Translational Brain Tumor Research Group, Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Charbel Machaalani
- Translational Brain Tumor Research Group, Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julie Bennett
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Patrick Roth
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina R. Reimann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Department of Pediatrics, Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG) / Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Center, Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Ana S. Guerreiro Stucklin
- Translational Brain Tumor Research Group, Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Dianat-Moghadam H, Nedaeinia R, Keshavarz M, Azizi M, Kazemi M, Salehi R. Immunotherapies targeting tumor vasculature: challenges and opportunities. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1226360. [PMID: 37727791 PMCID: PMC10506263 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1226360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a hallmark of cancer biology, and neoadjuvant therapies targeting either tumor vasculature or VEGF signaling have been developed to treat solid malignant tumors. However, these therapies induce complete vascular depletion leading to hypoxic niche, drug resistance, and tumor recurrence rate or leading to impaired delivery of chemo drugs and immune cell infiltration at the tumor site. Achieving a balance between oxygenation and tumor growth inhibition requires determining vascular normalization after treatment with a low dose of antiangiogenic agents. However, monotherapy within the approved antiangiogenic agents' benefits only some tumors and their efficacy improvement could be achieved using immunotherapy and emerging nanocarriers as a clinical tool to optimize subsequent therapeutic regimens and reduce the need for a high dosage of chemo agents. More importantly, combined immunotherapies and nano-based delivery systems can prolong the normalization window while providing the advantages to address the current treatment challenges within antiangiogenic agents. This review summarizes the approved therapies targeting tumor angiogenesis, highlights the challenges and limitations of current therapies, and discusses how vascular normalization, immunotherapies, and nanomedicine could introduce the theranostic potentials to improve tumor management in future clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Dianat-Moghadam
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Nedaeinia
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Keshavarz
- The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azizi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Biomaterials, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Rasoul Salehi
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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13
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Shahabifard H, Zarei M, Kookli K, Esmalian Afyouni N, Soltani N, Maghsoodi S, Adili A, Mahmoudi J, Shomali N, Sandoghchian Shotorbani S. An updated overview of the application of CAR-T cell therapy in neurological diseases. Biotechnol Prog 2023; 39:e3356. [PMID: 37198722 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Genetically modified immune cells, especially CAR-T cells, have captured the attention of scientists over the past 10 years. In the fight against cancer, these cells have a special place. Treatment for hematological cancers, autoimmune disorders, and cancers must include CAR-T cell therapy. Determining the therapeutic targets, side effects, and use of CAR-T cells in neurological disorders, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, is the goal of this study. Due to advancements in genetic engineering, CAR-T cells have become crucial in treating some neurological disorders. CAR-T cells have demonstrated a positive role in treating neurological cancers like Glioblastoma and Neuroblastoma due to their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and use diverse targets. However, CAR-T cell therapy for MS diseases is being researched and could be a potential treatment option. This study aimed to access the most recent studies and scientific articles in the field of CAR-T cells in neurological diseases and/or disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesam Shahabifard
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Zarei
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Keihan Kookli
- International Campus, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazgol Esmalian Afyouni
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Alzahra Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Narges Soltani
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sairan Maghsoodi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences (MUK), Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Ali Adili
- Department of Oncology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Javad Mahmoudi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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14
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Linares CA, Varghese A, Ghose A, Shinde SD, Adeleke S, Sanchez E, Sheriff M, Chargari C, Rassy E, Boussios S. Hallmarks of the Tumour Microenvironment of Gliomas and Its Interaction with Emerging Immunotherapy Modalities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13215. [PMID: 37686020 PMCID: PMC10487469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are aggressive, primary central nervous system tumours arising from glial cells. Glioblastomas are the most malignant. They are known for their poor prognosis or median overall survival. The current standard of care is overwhelmed by the heterogeneous, immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment promoting immune evasion and tumour proliferation. The advent of immunotherapy with its various modalities-immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, oncolytic viruses and chimeric antigen receptor T cells and NK cells-has shown promise. Clinical trials incorporating combination immunotherapies have overcome the microenvironment resistance and yielded promising survival and prognostic benefits. Rolling these new therapies out in the real-world scenario in a low-cost, high-throughput manner is the unmet need of the hour. These will have practice-changing implications to the glioma treatment landscape. Here, we review the immunobiological hallmarks of the TME of gliomas, how the TME evades immunotherapies and the work that is being conducted to overcome this interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A. Linares
- Guy’s Cancer Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.A.L.); (S.A.)
| | - Anjana Varghese
- Kent Oncology Centre, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Hermitage Lane, Maidstone, Kent ME16 9QQ, UK;
| | - Aruni Ghose
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.G.); (E.S.); (M.S.)
- Barts Cancer Centre, Barts Health NHS Trust, London EC1A 7BE, UK
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Northwood HA6 2RN, UK
- Immuno-Oncology Clinical Network, UK
| | - Sayali D. Shinde
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Cancer Research UK Barts Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Sola Adeleke
- Guy’s Cancer Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.A.L.); (S.A.)
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Elisabet Sanchez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.G.); (E.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Matin Sheriff
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.G.); (E.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, 75013 Paris, France;
| | - Elie Rassy
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Gustave Roussy, 94805 Villejuif, France;
| | - Stergios Boussios
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Gillingham ME7 5NY, UK; (A.G.); (E.S.); (M.S.)
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK
- Kent and Medway Medical School, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7LX, UK
- AELIA Organization, 9th Km Thessaloniki–Thermi, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
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15
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Khawar MB, Ge F, Afzal A, Sun H. From barriers to novel strategies: smarter CAR T therapy hits hard to tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1203230. [PMID: 37520522 PMCID: PMC10375020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1203230] [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: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy for solid tumors shows promise, but several hurdles remain. Strategies to overcome barriers such as CAR T therapy-related toxicities (CTT), immunosuppression, and immune checkpoints through research and technology are needed to put the last nail to the coffin and offer hope for previously incurable malignancies. Herein we review current literature and infer novel strategies for the mitigation of CTT while impeding immune suppression, stromal barriers, tumor heterogeneity, on-target/off-tumor toxicities, and better transfection strategies with an emphasis on clinical research and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
- Applied Molecular Biology and Biomedicine Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan
| | - Fei Ge
- Haian Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ali Afzal
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haibo Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
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16
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Ren M, Yao B, Han B, Li C. Nuclear Imaging of CAR T Immunotherapy to Solid Tumors: In Terms of Biodistribution, Viability, and Cytotoxic Effect. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200293. [PMID: 36642820 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200293] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become a mainstay of cancer therapy. Since chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T immunotherapy achieves unprecedented success in curing hematological malignancies, the possibility of it revolutionizing the paradigm of solid tumors has aroused increasing attention. However, the restricted accessibility to tumor parenchyma, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and antigen heterogeneity of solid tumors make it difficult to replicate its success. Therefore, dynamic evaluation of CAR T cells' tumor accessibility, intratumoral viability, and anti-tumor cytotoxicity is necessary to facilitate its translation to solid tumors. Besides, real-timely imaging above events in vivo can help evaluate therapeutic responses and optimize CAR T immunotherapy for solid tumors. Nuclear imaging, including positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging, is frequently applied for evaluating adoptive cell therapies owing to its excellent sensitivity, high tissue penetration, and great translation potential. In addition, quantitative analysis can be performed in dynamic and noninvasive patterns. This review focuses on recent advances in PET/SPECT technologies and imaging probes in monitoring CAR T cells' migration, viability, and cytotoxicity to solid tumors post-administration. Prospects of what should be done in the next stage to promote CAR T therapy's application in solid tumors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingliang Ren
- Minhang Hospital and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Zhangheng Road 826, 201203, Shanghai, China
| | - Bolin Yao
- Minhang Hospital and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Zhangheng Road 826, 201203, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Han
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Li
- Minhang Hospital and Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Zhangheng Road 826, 201203, Shanghai, China
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17
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Karnik I, Her Z, Neo SH, Liu WN, Chen Q. Emerging Preclinical Applications of Humanized Mouse Models in the Discovery and Validation of Novel Immunotherapeutics and Their Mechanisms of Action for Improved Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1600. [PMID: 37376049 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapeutics have undergone immense research over the past decade. While chemotherapies remain the mainstay treatments for many cancers, the advent of new molecular techniques has opened doors for more targeted modalities towards cancer cells. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in treating cancer, adverse side effects related to excessive inflammation are often reported. There is a lack of clinically relevant animal models to probe the human immune response towards ICI-based interventions. Humanized mouse models have emerged as valuable tools for pre-clinical research to evaluate the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy. This review focuses on the establishment of humanized mouse models, highlighting the challenges and recent advances in these models for targeted drug discovery and the validation of therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment. Furthermore, the potential of these models in the process of uncovering novel disease mechanisms is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Karnik
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
| | - Zhisheng Her
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Shu Hui Neo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Wai Nam Liu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
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18
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Yan T, Zhu L, Chen J. Current advances and challenges in CAR T-Cell therapy for solid tumors: tumor-associated antigens and the tumor microenvironment. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:14. [PMID: 36707873 PMCID: PMC9883880 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00373-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed ongoing progress in immune therapy to ameliorate human health. As an emerging technique, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has the advantages of specific killing of cancer cells, a high remission rate of cancer-induced symptoms, rapid tumor eradication, and long-lasting tumor immunity, opening a new window for tumor treatment. However, challenges remain in CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors due to target diversity, tumor heterogeneity, and the complex microenvironment. In this review, we have outlined the development of the CAR T-cell technique, summarized the current advances in tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), and highlighted the importance of tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) or neoantigens for solid tumors. We also addressed the challenge of the TAA binding domain in CARs to overcome off-tumor toxicity. Moreover, we illustrated the dominant tumor microenvironment (TME)-induced challenges and new strategies based on TME-associated antigens (TMAs) for solid tumor CAR T-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yan
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Institute of Clinical Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570311 Hainan China
| | - Lingfeng Zhu
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570311 Hainan China
| | - Jin Chen
- grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Institute of Clinical Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570311 Hainan China ,grid.443397.e0000 0004 0368 7493Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570311 Hainan China
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19
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Harrer DC, Dörrie J, Schaft N. CARs and Drugs: Pharmacological Ways of Boosting CAR-T-Cell Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032342. [PMID: 36768665 PMCID: PMC9916546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) has marked a new era in cancer immunotherapy. Based on a multitude of durable complete remissions in patients with hematological malignancies, FDA and EMA approval was issued to several CAR products targeting lymphoid leukemias and lymphomas. Nevertheless, about 50% of patients treated with these approved CAR products experience relapse or refractory disease necessitating salvage strategies. Moreover, in the vast majority of patients suffering from solid tumors, CAR-T-cell infusions could not induce durable complete remissions so far. Crucial obstacles to CAR-T-cell therapy resulting in a priori CAR-T-cell refractory disease or relapse after initially successful CAR-T-cell therapy encompass antigen shutdown and CAR-T-cell dysfunctionality. Antigen shutdown predominately rationalizes disease relapse in hematological malignancies, and CAR-T-cell dysfunctionality is characterized by insufficient CAR-T-cell proliferation and cytotoxicity frequently observed in patients with solid tumors. Thus, strategies to surmount those obstacles are being developed with high urgency. In this review, we want to highlight different approaches to combine CAR-T cells with drugs, such as small molecules and antibodies, to pharmacologically boost CAR-T-cell therapy. In particular, we discuss how certain drugs may help to counteract antigen shutdown and CAR-T-cell dysfunctionality in both hematological malignancies and solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christoph Harrer
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Östliche Stadtmauerstraße 30, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Ulmenweg 18, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), Östliche Stadtmauerstraße 30, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Ulmenweg 18, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-9131-85-31127
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20
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Claus C, Ferrara-Koller C, Klein C. The emerging landscape of novel 4-1BB (CD137) agonistic drugs for cancer immunotherapy. MAbs 2023; 15:2167189. [PMID: 36727218 PMCID: PMC9897756 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2023.2167189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical development of 4-1BB agonists for cancer immunotherapy has raised substantial interest during the past decade. The first generation of 4-1BB agonistic antibodies entering the clinic, urelumab (BMS-663513) and utomilumab (PF-05082566), failed due to (liver) toxicity or lack of efficacy, respectively. The two antibodies display differences in the affinity and the 4-1BB receptor epitope recognition, as well as the isotype, which determines the Fc-gamma-receptor (FcγR) crosslinking activity. Based on this experience a very diverse landscape of second-generation 4-1BB agonists addressing the liabilities of first-generation agonists has recently been developed, with many entering clinical Phase 1 and 2 studies. This review provides an overview focusing on differences and their scientific rationale, as well as challenges foreseen during the clinical development of these molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Claus
- Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Ferrara-Koller
- Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Christian Klein
- Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Schlieren, Switzerland
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21
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Wang L, Chen X, Zhang L, Niu B, Li L, Sun Y, Yuan X. CAR cell design strategies in solid tumors. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109345. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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22
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Intestinal Microbiota: The Driving Force behind Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194796. [PMID: 36230724 PMCID: PMC9564057 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194796] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the great achievements of cancer immunotherapy in a variety of tumors, tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance still plague patients and clinical researchers. In particular, the occurrence of immune-related adverse events forces patients to discontinue cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, it is urgent to optimize cancer immunotherapy and improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. With the iteration of sequencing technology, the microbiome, as the second set of genomes in the body, has been proven to be involved in immunity and metabolism. More and more studies are gradually shifting the perspective to the intestinal microbiota and cancer immunotherapy. The intestinal microbiota reactivates and modulates immune cells in immunotherapy and is expected to become a biomarker for predicting immune efficacy. Targeting to improve the intestinal microbiota can enhance anti-tumor immunity. This advantage is beneficial to control related adverse symptoms and expand the beneficiary population of cancer immunotherapy. This finding can help clinicians comprehensively evaluate the effect of tumor screening and tumor treatment. Therefore, the innovative combination of gut microbiota and cancer immunotherapy is expected to be an active strategy to enhance individualized immune responses. Abstract In recent years, cancer immunotherapy has become a breakthrough method to solve solid tumors. It uses immune checkpoint inhibitors to interfere with tumor immune escape to coordinate anti-tumor therapy. However, immunotherapy has an individualized response rate. Moreover, immune-related adverse events and drug resistance are still urgent issues that need to be resolved, which may be attributed to the immune imbalance caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors. Microbiome research has fully revealed the metabolic-immune interaction relationship between the microbiome and the host. Surprisingly, sequencing technology further proved that intestinal microbiota could effectively intervene in tumor immunotherapy and reduce the incidence of adverse events. Therefore, cancer immunotherapy under the intervention of intestinal microbiota has innovatively broadened the anti-tumor landscape and is expected to become an active strategy to enhance individualized responses.
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Lyou Y, Dorff TB. Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell Treatment in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Current clinical trials and future directions. KIDNEY CANCER 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/kca-220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has long been found to be responsive to immunotherapy. While high dose interleukin-2 resulted in some durable remissions, this treatment has largely been replaced by immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, due to the safer toxicity profile and emerging evidence for long term remissions. However, the majority of patients continue to face disease progression and death from metastatic RCC. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR T) represent the next step in immunotherapy for this malignancy and hold promise for a higher rate of durable remissions. The realization of this therapeutic strategy for RCC will require identification of the best tumor antigen and T cell modifications and will depend on achieving remissions with an acceptable toxicity profile. This review summarizes current CAR T-cell treatment targets and clinical trials for metastatic RCC, highlighting the potential therapeutic impact as well as obstacles to successful development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung Lyou
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Providence St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute, Fullerton, CA, USA
| | - Tanya B. Dorff
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
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