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Ceccarelli M, Rossi S, Bonaventura F, Massari R, D'Elia A, Soluri A, Micheli L, D'Andrea G, Mancini B, Raspa M, Scavizzi F, Alaggio R, Del Bufalo F, Miele E, Carai A, Mastronuzzi A, Tirone F. Intracerebellar administration of the chemokine Cxcl3 reduces the volume of medulloblastoma lesions at an advanced stage by promoting the migration and differentiation of preneoplastic precursor cells. Brain Pathol 2024:e13283. [PMID: 38946128 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13283] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for many pediatric brain tumors, including cerebellar medulloblastoma (MB), remains dismal but there is promise in new therapies. We have previously generated a mouse model developing spontaneous MB at high frequency, Ptch1+/-/Tis21-/-. In this model, reproducing human tumorigenesis, we identified the decline of the Cxcl3 chemokine in cerebellar granule cell precursors (GCPs) as responsible for a migration defect, which causes GCPs to stay longer in the proliferative area rather than differentiate and migrate internally, making them targets of transforming insults. We demonstrated that 4-week Cxcl3 infusion in cerebella of 1-month-old mice, at the initial stage of MB formation, forces preneoplastic GCPs (pGCPs) to leave lesions and differentiate, with a complete suppression of MB development. In this study, we sought to verify the effect of 4-week Cxcl3 treatment in 3-month-old Ptch1+/-/Tis21-/- mice, when MB lesions are at an advanced, irreversible stage. We found that Cxcl3 treatment reduces tumor volumes by sevenfold and stimulates the migration and differentiation of pGCPs from the lesion to the internal cerebellar layers. We also tested whether the pro-migratory action of Cxcl3 favors metastases formation, by xenografting DAOY human MB cells in the cerebellum of immunosuppressed mice. We showed that DAOY cells express the Cxcl3 receptor, Cxcr2, and that Cxcl3 triggers their migration. However, Cxcl3 did not significantly affect the frequency of metastases or the growth of DAOY-generated MBs. Finally, we mapped the expression of the Cxcr2 receptor in human MBs, by evaluating a well-characterized series of 52 human MBs belonging to different MB molecular subgroups. We found that Cxcr2 was variably expressed in all MB subgroups, suggesting that Cxcl3 could be used for therapy of different MBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Ceccarelli
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
- Onco-Hematology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rossi
- Pathology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Massari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Annunziata D'Elia
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Soluri
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Neurosciences, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Micheli
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio D'Andrea
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Mancini
- Pathology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy (IBBC-CNR/EMMA/INFRAFRONTIER/IMPC), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Scavizzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy (IBBC-CNR/EMMA/INFRAFRONTIER/IMPC), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Alaggio
- Pathology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medico-surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Del Bufalo
- Onco-Hematology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Evelina Miele
- Onco-Hematology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Carai
- Neurosurgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Onco-Hematology, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapies and Hemopoietic Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Felice Tirone
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), c/o International Campus "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Rome, Italy
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Young DJ, Edwards AJ, Quiroz Caceda KG, Liberzon E, Barrientos J, Hong S, Turner J, Choyke PL, Arlauckas S, Lazorchak AS, Morgan RA, Sato N, Dunbar CE. In vivo tracking of ex vivo generated 89 Zr-oxine labeled plasma cells by PET in a non-human primate model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.24.595782. [PMID: 38903108 PMCID: PMC11188104 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.24.595782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
B cells are an attractive platform for engineering to produce protein-based biologics absent in genetic disorders, and potentially for the treatment of metabolic diseases and cancer. As part of pre-clinical development of B cell medicines, we demonstrate a method to collect, ex vivo expand, differentiate, radioactively label, and track adoptively transferred non-human primate (NHP) B cells. These cells underwent 10- to 15-fold expansion, initiated IgG class switching, and differentiated into antibody secreting cells. Zirconium-89-oxine labeled cells were infused into autologous donors without any preconditioning and tracked by PET/CT imaging. Within 24 hours of infusion, 20% of the initial dose homed to the bone marrow and spleen and distributed stably and equally between the two. Interestingly, approximately half of the dose homed to the liver. Image analysis of the bone marrow demonstrated inhomogeneous distribution of the cells. The subjects experienced no clinically significant side effects or laboratory abnormalities. A second infusion of B cells into one of the subjects resulted in an almost identical distribution of cells, suggesting a non-limiting engraftment niche and feasibility of repeated infusions. This work supports the NHP as a valuable model to assess the potential of B cell medicines as potential treatment for human diseases.
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Hu Y, Sarkar A, Song K, Michael S, Hook M, Wang R, Heczey A, Song X. Selective refueling of CAR T cells using ADA1 and CD26 boosts antitumor immunity. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101530. [PMID: 38688275 PMCID: PMC11148642 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101530] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is hindered in solid tumor treatment due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and suboptimal T cell persistence. Current strategies do not address nutrient competition in the microenvironment. Hence, we present a metabolic refueling approach using inosine as an alternative fuel. CAR T cells were engineered to express membrane-bound CD26 and cytoplasmic adenosine deaminase 1 (ADA1), converting adenosine to inosine. Autocrine secretion of ADA1 upon CD3/CD26 stimulation activates CAR T cells, improving migration and resistance to transforming growth factor β1 suppression. Fusion of ADA1 with anti-CD3 scFv further boosts inosine production and minimizes tumor cell feeding. In mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer, metabolically refueled CAR T cells exhibit superior tumor reduction compared to unmodified CAR T cells. Overall, our study highlights the potential of selective inosine refueling to enhance CAR T therapy efficacy against solid tumors.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Adenosine Deaminase/metabolism
- Humans
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Mice
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/metabolism
- Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Inosine
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/immunology
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/therapy
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/pathology
- Lung Neoplasms/immunology
- Lung Neoplasms/therapy
- Lung Neoplasms/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Hu
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Abhijit Sarkar
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kevin Song
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Biology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sara Michael
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Synthesis Biology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Magnus Hook
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ruoning Wang
- Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Hematology/Oncology & BMT, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andras Heczey
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatric, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaotong Song
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA.
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Liao YM, Hsu SH, Chiou SS. Harnessing the Transcriptional Signatures of CAR-T-Cells and Leukemia/Lymphoma Using Single-Cell Sequencing Technologies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2416. [PMID: 38397092 PMCID: PMC10889174 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042416] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has greatly improved outcomes for patients with relapsed or refractory hematological malignancies. However, challenges such as treatment resistance, relapse, and severe toxicity still hinder its widespread clinical application. Traditional transcriptome analysis has provided limited insights into the complex transcriptional landscape of both leukemia cells and engineered CAR-T-cells, as well as their interactions within the tumor microenvironment. However, with the advent of single-cell sequencing techniques, a paradigm shift has occurred, providing robust tools to unravel the complexities of these factors. These techniques enable an unbiased analysis of cellular heterogeneity and molecular patterns. These insights are invaluable for precise receptor design, guiding gene-based T-cell modification, and optimizing manufacturing conditions. Consequently, this review utilizes modern single-cell sequencing techniques to clarify the transcriptional intricacies of leukemia cells and CAR-Ts. The aim of this manuscript is to discuss the potential mechanisms that contribute to the clinical failures of CAR-T immunotherapy. We examine the biological characteristics of CAR-Ts, the mechanisms that govern clinical responses, and the intricacies of adverse events. By exploring these aspects, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of CAR-T therapy, which will ultimately lead to improved clinical outcomes and broader therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Mei Liao
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Shih-Hsien Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center of Applied Genomics, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Shyh-Shin Chiou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center of Applied Genomics, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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Wang Q, Xin X, Dai Q, Sun M, Chen J, Mostafavi E, Shen Y, Li X. Medulloblastoma targeted therapy: From signaling pathways heterogeneity and current treatment dilemma to the recent advances in development of therapeutic strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108527. [PMID: 37703952 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108527] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a major pediatric malignant brain tumor that arises in the cerebellum. MB tumors exhibit highly heterogeneous driven by diverse genetic alterations and could be divided into four major subgroups based on their different biological drivers and molecular features (Wnt, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), group 3, and group 4 MB). Even though the therapeutic strategies for each MB subtype integrate their pathogenesis and were developed to focus on their specific target sites, the unexpected drug non-selective cytotoxicity, low drug accumulation in the brain, and complexed MB tumor microenvironment still be huge obstacles to achieving satisfied MB therapeutic efficiency. This review discussed the current advances in modern MB therapeutic strategy development. Through the recent advances in knowledge of the origin, molecular pathogenesis of MB subtypes and their current therapeutic barriers, we particularly reviewed the current development in advanced MB therapeutic strategy committed to overcome MB treatment obstacles, focusing on novel signaling pathway targeted therapeutic agents and their combination discovery, advanced drug delivery systems design, and MB immunotherapy strategy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Xiaofei Xin
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qihao Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Mengjuan Sun
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jinhua Chen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Yan Shen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Xueming Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
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Penco-Campillo M, Pages G, Martial S. Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis in Medulloblastoma Development. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1028. [PMID: 37508458 PMCID: PMC10376362 DOI: 10.3390/biology12071028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most prevalent brain tumor in children. Although the current cure rate stands at approximately 70%, the existing treatments that involve a combination of radio- and chemotherapy are highly detrimental to the patients' quality of life. These aggressive therapies often result in a significant reduction in the overall well-being of the patients. Moreover, the most aggressive forms of MB frequently relapse, leading to a fatal outcome in a majority of cases. However, MB is highly vascularized, and both angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are believed to play crucial roles in tumor development and spread. In this context, our objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research progress in elucidating the functions of these two pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Penco-Campillo
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284 and INSERM U1081, 33 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
| | - Gilles Pages
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284 and INSERM U1081, 33 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
| | - Sonia Martial
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284 and INSERM U1081, 33 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
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Damodharan S, Puccetti D. Pediatric Central Nervous System Tumor Overview and Emerging Treatment Considerations. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1106. [PMID: 37509034 PMCID: PMC10377074 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071106] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most common solid tumor in children, with the majority being glial in origin. These tumors are classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as either being low grade (WHO grade 1 and 2) or high grade (WHO grade 3 and 4). Our knowledge of the molecular landscape of pediatric brain tumors has advanced over the last decade, which has led to newer categorizations along with an expansion of therapeutic targets and options. In this review, we will give an overview of common CNS tumors seen in children along with a focus on treatment options and future considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarshawn Damodharan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Diane Puccetti
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
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Rechberger JS, Toll SA, Vanbilloen WJF, Daniels DJ, Khatua S. Exploring the Molecular Complexity of Medulloblastoma: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2398. [PMID: 37510143 PMCID: PMC10378552 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13142398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Over the last few decades, significant progress has been made in revealing the key molecular underpinnings of this disease, leading to the identification of distinct molecular subgroups with different clinical outcomes. In this review, we provide an update on the molecular landscape of medulloblastoma and treatment strategies. We discuss the four main molecular subgroups (WNT-activated, SHH-activated, and non-WNT/non-SHH groups 3 and 4), highlighting the key genetic alterations and signaling pathways associated with each entity. Furthermore, we explore the emerging role of epigenetic regulation in medulloblastoma and the mechanism of resistance to therapy. We also delve into the latest developments in targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Continuing collaborative efforts are needed to further unravel the complex molecular mechanisms and profile optimal treatment for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian S Rechberger
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Stephanie A Toll
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Wouter J F Vanbilloen
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Neurology, Elisabeth-Tweesteden Hospital, 5022 Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - David J Daniels
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Soumen Khatua
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Section of Neuro-Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Dagar G, Gupta A, Masoodi T, Nisar S, Merhi M, Hashem S, Chauhan R, Dagar M, Mirza S, Bagga P, Kumar R, Akil ASAS, Macha MA, Haris M, Uddin S, Singh M, Bhat AA. Harnessing the potential of CAR-T cell therapy: progress, challenges, and future directions in hematological and solid tumor treatments. J Transl Med 2023; 21:449. [PMID: 37420216 PMCID: PMC10327392 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04292-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional cancer treatments use nonspecific drugs and monoclonal antibodies to target tumor cells. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, however, leverages the immune system's T-cells to recognize and attack tumor cells. T-cells are isolated from patients and modified to target tumor-associated antigens. CAR-T therapy has achieved FDA approval for treating blood cancers like B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, large B-cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma by targeting CD-19 and B-cell maturation antigens. Bi-specific chimeric antigen receptors may contribute to mitigating tumor antigen escape, but their efficacy could be limited in cases where certain tumor cells do not express the targeted antigens. Despite success in blood cancers, CAR-T technology faces challenges in solid tumors, including lack of reliable tumor-associated antigens, hypoxic cores, immunosuppressive tumor environments, enhanced reactive oxygen species, and decreased T-cell infiltration. To overcome these challenges, current research aims to identify reliable tumor-associated antigens and develop cost-effective, tumor microenvironment-specific CAR-T cells. This review covers the evolution of CAR-T therapy against various tumors, including hematological and solid tumors, highlights challenges faced by CAR-T cell therapy, and suggests strategies to overcome these obstacles, such as utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing and artificial intelligence to optimize clinical-grade CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Dagar
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ashna Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Tariq Masoodi
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sheema Hashem
- Department of Human Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ravi Chauhan
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Manisha Dagar
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sameer Mirza
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Puneet Bagga
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Ammira S Al-Shabeeb Akil
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
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Zhu Y, Feng J, Wan R, Huang W. CAR T Cell Therapy: Remedies of Current Challenges in Design, Injection, Infiltration and Working. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:1783-1792. [PMID: 37337518 PMCID: PMC10277020 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s413348] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, as an innovative immunotherapy, plays a huge role in current cancer therapy. Although CAR T cell therapy has demonstrated therapeutic effects in some subtypes of B cell leukemia or lymphoma, there are many challenges that limit the therapeutic efficacy of CAR T cells in solid tumors. And how to efficiently transport CAR T cells to tumor tissues is a continuing concern for us. In this review, experiments have been extensively studied and compared. We finally compared the influence of different injection methods on therapeutic efficacy. We also carefully explored the difficulties of designing, homing, and working of CAR T cells, and ultimately came up with better solutions for each process to help CAR T cells reach tumor tissue more efficiently and quickly. These results will have significant implications for guiding CAR T cell therapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Zhu
- The First Clinical Medical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digital Medicine and Biomechanics, National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianguo Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digital Medicine and Biomechanics, National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongxue Wan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digital Medicine and Biomechanics, National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenhua Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digital Medicine and Biomechanics, National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Translation of Medical 3D Printing Application, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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11
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Zhang G, Zhao Y, Liu Z, Liu W, Wu H, Wang X, Chen Z. GD2 CAR-T cells in combination with Nivolumab exhibit enhanced antitumor efficacy. Transl Oncol 2023; 32:101663. [PMID: 36966611 PMCID: PMC10066552 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common primary brain tumor with poor clinical prognosis. Although CAR-T therapy has been trialed for treatment of GBM, the outcomes are sub-optimal possibly due to exhaustion of T cells and life-threatening neurotoxicity. To address these issues, a combined therapeutic strategy was tested in the current study using GD2 CAR-T together with Nivolumab - an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody. An effector-to-target co-culture system was established to evaluate the short-term and long-term cytotoxicity of CAR-T, as well as to investigate the inhibitory activity and T cell exhaustion associated with the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway. Orthotopic NOD/SCID GBM animal models were generated to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the combined therapeutic strategy at various dosages of GD2 CAR-T with Nivolumab. GD2 CAR-T exhibited significant antigen-specific cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. The persistence of cytotoxicity of GD2 CAR-T could be enhanced by addition of Nivolumab in the co-culture system. Animal studies suggested that GD2 CAR-T effectively infiltrated into tumor tissue and significantly hampered tumor progression. The optimal therapeutic outcome was obtained via using the medium dosage of CAR-T with Nivolumab, which displayed the highest efficacy in extending the survival up to 60 days. Further investigation of toxicity revealed that high-dosage of GD2 CAR-T could induce tumor apoptosis through p53/caspase-3/PARP signaling pathway. This study suggests that GD2 CAR-T in combination with Nivolumab may offer an improved therapeutic strategy for treatment of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangji Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhongfeng Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Weihua Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Huantong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province 250014, China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China.
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12
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Jiang H, Shin DH, Yi Y, Fan X, Gumin J, He J, Gillard AG, Lang FF, Gomez-Manzano C, Fueyo J. Adjuvant Therapy with Oncolytic Adenovirus Delta-24-RGDOX After Intratumoral Adoptive T-cell Therapy Promotes Antigen Spread to Sustain Systemic Antitumor Immunity. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:1118-1131. [PMID: 37379361 PMCID: PMC10295804 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cell heterogeneity and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) pose a challenge in treating solid tumors with adoptive cell therapies targeting limited tumor-associated antigens (TAA), such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. We hypothesize that oncolytic adenovirus Delta-24-RGDOX activates the TME and promote antigen spread to potentiate the abscopal effect of adoptive TAA-targeting T cells in localized intratumoral treatment. Herein, we used C57BL/6 mouse models with disseminated tumors derived from B16 melanoma cell lines to assess therapeutic effects and antitumor immunity. gp100-specific pmel-1 or ovalbumin (OVA)-specific OT-I T cells were injected into the first subcutaneous tumor, followed by three injections of Delta-24-RGDOX. We found TAA-targeting T cells injected into one subcutaneous tumor showed tumor tropism. Delta-24-RGDOX sustained the systemic tumor regression mediated by the T cells, leading to improved survival rate. Further analysis revealed that, in mice with disseminated B16-OVA tumors, Delta-24-RGDOX increased CD8+ leukocyte density within treated and untreated tumors. Importantly, Delta-24-RGDOX significantly reduced the immunosuppression of endogenous OVA-specific CTLs while increasing that of CD8+ leukocytes and, to a lesser extent, adoptive pmel-1 T cells. Consequently, Delta-24-RGDOX drastically increased the density of the OVA-specific CTLs in both tumors, and the combination synergistically enhanced the effect. Consistently, the splenocytes from the combination group showed a significantly stronger response against other TAAs (OVA and TRP2) than gp100, resulted in higher activity against tumor cells. Therefore, our data demonstrate that, as an adjuvant therapy followed TAA-targeting T cells in localized treatment, Delta-24-RGDOX activates TME and promotes antigen spread, leading to efficacious systemic antitumor immunity to overcome tumor relapse. Significance Adjuvant therapy with oncolytic viruses promotes antigen spread to potentiate localized intratumoral adoptive T-cell therapy with limited TAA targets, leading to sustainable systemic antitumor immunity to overcome tumor relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jiang
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Dong Ho Shin
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yanhua Yi
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Xuejun Fan
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Joy Gumin
- Department of Neuro-Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jiasen He
- Pediatric division, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Andrew G. Gillard
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Frederick F. Lang
- Department of Neuro-Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Juan Fueyo
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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13
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Rodriguez A, Kamiya-Matsuoka C, Majd NK. The Role of Immunotherapy in the Treatment of Rare Central Nervous System Tumors. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:5279-5298. [PMID: 37366884 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30060401] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Establishing novel therapies for rare central nervous system (CNS) tumors is arduous due to challenges in conducting clinical trials in rare tumors. Immunotherapy treatment has been a rapidly developing field and has demonstrated improvements in outcomes for multiple types of solid malignancies. In rare CNS tumors, the role of immunotherapy is being explored. In this article, we review the preclinical and clinical data of various immunotherapy modalities in select rare CNS tumors, including atypical meningioma, aggressive pituitary adenoma, pituitary carcinoma, ependymoma, embryonal tumor, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor, and meningeal solitary fibrous tumor. Among these tumor types, some studies have shown promise; however, ongoing clinical trials will be critical for defining and optimizing the role of immunotherapy for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Rodriguez
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Nazanin K Majd
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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14
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Huang S, Wang X, Wang Y, Wang Y, Fang C, Wang Y, Chen S, Chen R, Lei T, Zhang Y, Xu X, Li Y. Deciphering and advancing CAR T-cell therapy with single-cell sequencing technologies. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:80. [PMID: 37149643 PMCID: PMC10163813 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01783-1] [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: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has made remarkable progress in cancer immunotherapy, but several challenges with unclear mechanisms hinder its wide clinical application. Single-cell sequencing technologies, with the powerful unbiased analysis of cellular heterogeneity and molecular patterns at unprecedented resolution, have greatly advanced our understanding of immunology and oncology. In this review, we summarize the recent applications of single-cell sequencing technologies in CAR T-cell therapy, including the biological characteristics, the latest mechanisms of clinical response and adverse events, promising strategies that contribute to the development of CAR T-cell therapy and CAR target selection. Generally, we propose a multi-omics research mode to guide potential future research on CAR T-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengkang Huang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Wang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yajing Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenglong Fang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yazhuo Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sifei Chen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Runkai Chen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Lei
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchen Zhang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinjie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China.
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15
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Jovanovich N, Habib A, Hameed NF, Edwards L, Zinn PO. Applications and current challenges of chimeric antigen receptor T cells in treating high-grade gliomas in adult and pediatric populations. Immunotherapy 2023; 15:383-396. [PMID: 36876438 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2022-0200] [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] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-grade gliomas (HGGs) continue to be some of the most devastating diseases in the USA. Despite extensive efforts, the survival of HGG patients has remained relatively stagnant. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell immunotherapy has recently been studied in the context of improving these tumors' clinical outcomes. HGG murine models treated with CAR T cells targeting tumor antigens have shown reduced tumor burden and longer overall survival than models without treatment. Subsequent clinical trials investigating the efficacy of CAR T cells have further shown that this therapy could be safe and might reduce tumor burden. However, there are still many challenges that need to be addressed to optimize the safety and efficacy of CAR T-cell therapy in treating HGG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolina Jovanovich
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Ahmed Habib
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Nu Farrukh Hameed
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Lincoln Edwards
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Pascal O Zinn
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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16
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CAR T-Cell Therapy in Children with Solid Tumors. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062326. [PMID: 36983330 PMCID: PMC10051963 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The limited efficacy of traditional cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, emphasize the significance of employing innovative methods. CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T-cell therapy remains the most revolutionizing treatment of pediatric hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Patient’s own lymphocytes are modified ex-vivo using gene transfer techniques and programmed to recognize and destroy specific tumor cells regardless of MHC receptor, which probably makes CAR-T the most personalized therapy for the patient. With continued refinement and optimization, CAR-T cell therapy has the potential to significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for children with limited treatment options. It has shown remarkable success in treating hematological malignancies, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). However, its effectiveness in treating solid tumors is still being investigated and remains an area of active research. In this review we focus on solid tumors and explain the concept of CAR modified T cells, and discuss some novel CAR designs that are being considered to enhance the safety of CAR T-cell therapy in under-mentioned cancers. Furthermore, we summarize the most crucial recent reports concerning the solid tumors treatment in children. In the end we provide a short summary of many challenges that limit the therapeutic efficacy of CAR-T in solid tumors, such as antigen escape, immunosuppressive microenvironment, poor trafficking, and tumor infiltration, on-target off-tumor effects and general toxicity.
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17
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Gorini F, Miceli M, de Antonellis P, Amente S, Zollo M, Ferrucci V. Epigenetics and immune cells in medulloblastoma. Front Genet 2023; 14:1135404. [PMID: 36968588 PMCID: PMC10036437 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1135404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly malignant childhood tumor of the cerebellum. Transcriptional and epigenetic signatures have classified MB into four molecular subgroups, further stratified into biologically different subtypes with distinct somatic copy-number aberrations, driver genes, epigenetic alterations, activated pathways, and clinical outcomes. The brain tumor microenvironment (BTME) is of importance to regulate a complex network of cells, including immune cells, involved in cancer progression in brain malignancies. MB was considered with a “cold” immunophenotype due to the low influx of immune cells across the blood brain barrier (BBB). Recently, this assumption has been reconsidered because of the identification of infiltrating immune cells showing immunosuppressive phenotypes in the BTME of MB tumors. Here, we are providing a comprehensive overview of the current status of epigenetics alterations occurring during cancer progression with a description of the genomic landscape of MB by focusing on immune cells within the BTME. We further describe how new immunotherapeutic approaches could influence concurring epigenetic mechanisms of the immunosuppressive cells in BTME. In conclusion, the modulation of these molecular genetic complexes in BTME during cancer progression might enhance the therapeutic benefit, thus firing new weapons to fight MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gorini
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Miceli
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasqualino de Antonellis
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Amente
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Zollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, ‘AOU Federico II Policlinico, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Ferrucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Veronica Ferrucci,
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18
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Guzman G, Pellot K, Reed MR, Rodriguez A. CAR T-cells to treat brain tumors. Brain Res Bull 2023; 196:76-98. [PMID: 36841424 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.02.014] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Tremendous success using CAR T therapy in hematological malignancies has garnered significant interest in developing such treatments for solid tumors, including brain tumors. This success, however, has yet to be mirrored in solid organ neoplasms. CAR T function has shown limited efficacy against brain tumors due to several factors including the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, blood-brain barrier, and tumor-antigen heterogeneity. Despite these considerations, CAR T-cell therapy has the potential to be implemented as a treatment modality for brain tumors. Here, we review adult and pediatric brain tumors, including glioblastoma, diffuse midline gliomas, and medulloblastomas that continue to portend a grim prognosis. We describe insights gained from different preclinical models using CAR T therapy against various brain tumors and results gathered from ongoing clinical trials. Furthermore, we outline the challenges limiting CAR T therapy success against brain tumors and summarize advancements made to overcome these obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Guzman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | | | - Megan R Reed
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Analiz Rodriguez
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.
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19
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Dang H, Khan AB, Gadgil N, Sharma H, Trandafir C, Malbari F, Weiner HL. Behavioral Improvements following Lesion Resection for Pediatric Epilepsy: Pediatric Psychosurgery? Pediatr Neurosurg 2023; 58:80-88. [PMID: 36787706 PMCID: PMC10233708 DOI: 10.1159/000529683] [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: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Resection of brain lesions associated with refractory epilepsy to achieve seizure control is well accepted. However, concurrent behavioral effects of these lesions such as changes in mood, personality, and cognition and the effects of surgery on behavior have not been well characterized. We describe 5 such children with epileptogenic lesions and significant behavioral abnormalities which improved after surgery. CASE DESCRIPTIONS Five children (ages 3-14 years) with major behavioral abnormalities and lesional epilepsy were identified and treated at our center. Behavioral problems included academic impairment, impulsivity, self-injurious behavior, and decreased social interaction with diagnoses of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and autism. Pre-operative neuropsychiatric testing was performed in 4/5 patients and revealed low-average cognitive and intellectual abilities for their age, attentional difficulties, and poor memory. Lesions were located in the temporal (2 gangliogliomas, 1 JPA, 1 cavernoma) and parietal (1 DNET) lobes. Gross total resection was achieved in all cases. At mean 1-year follow-up, seizure freedom (Engel 1a in 3 patients, Engel 1c in 2 patients) and significant behavioral improvements (academic performance, attention, socialization, and aggression) were achieved in all. Two patients manifested violence pre-operatively; one had extreme behavior with violence toward teachers and peers despite low seizure burden. Since surgery, his behavior has normalized. CONCLUSION We identified 5 patients with severe behavioral disorders in the setting of lesional epilepsy, all of whom demonstrated improvement after surgery. The degree of behavioral abnormality was disproportionate to epilepsy severity, suggesting a more complicated mechanism by which lesional epilepsy impacts behavior. We propose a novel paradigm in which lesionectomy may offer behavioral benefit even when seizures are not refractory. Thus, behavioral improvement may be an important novel goal for neurosurgical resection in children with epileptic brain lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy Dang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA,
| | - Abdul Basit Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nisha Gadgil
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Himanshu Sharma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Cristina Trandafir
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Fatema Malbari
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Howard L Weiner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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20
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Tumor immunology. Clin Immunol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818006-8.00003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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21
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Overcoming on-target, off-tumour toxicity of CAR T cell therapy for solid tumours. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:49-62. [PMID: 36418477 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-022-00704-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 103.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Therapies with genetically modified T cells that express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) specific for CD19 or B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) are approved to treat certain B cell malignancies. However, translating these successes into treatments for patients with solid tumours presents various challenges, including the risk of clinically serious on-target, off-tumour toxicity (OTOT) owing to CAR T cell-mediated cytotoxicity against non-malignant tissues expressing the target antigen. Indeed, severe OTOT has been observed in various CAR T cell clinical trials involving patients with solid tumours, highlighting the importance of establishing strategies to predict, mitigate and control the onset of this effect. In this Review, we summarize current clinical evidence of OTOT with CAR T cells in the treatment of solid tumours and discuss the utility of preclinical mouse models in predicting clinical OTOT. We then describe novel strategies being developed to improve the specificity of CAR T cells in solid tumours, particularly the role of affinity tuning of target binders, logic circuits and synthetic biology. Furthermore, we highlight control strategies that can be used to mitigate clinical OTOT following cell infusion such as regulating or eliminating CAR T cell activity, exogenous control of CAR expression, and local administration of CAR T cells.
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22
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Majedi FS, Hasani-Sadrabadi MM, Thauland TJ, Keswani SG, Li S, Bouchard LS, Butte MJ. Systemic enhancement of antitumour immunity by peritumourally implanted immunomodulatory macroporous scaffolds. Nat Biomed Eng 2023; 7:56-71. [PMID: 36550304 PMCID: PMC9940651 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00977-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A tumour microenvironment abundant in regulatory T (Treg) cells aids solid tumours to evade clearance by effector T cells. Systemic strategies to suppress Treg cells or to augment immunity can elicit autoimmune side effects, cytokine storms and other toxicities. Here we report the design, fabrication and therapeutic performance of a biodegradable macroporous scaffold, implanted peritumourally, that releases a small-molecule inhibitor of transforming growth factor β to suppress Treg cells, chemokines to attract effector T cells and antibodies to stimulate them. In two mouse models of aggressive tumours, the implant boosted the recruitment and activation of effector T cells into the tumour and depleted it of Treg cells, which resulted in an 'immunological abscopal effect' on distant metastases and in the establishment of long-term memory that impeded tumour recurrence. We also show that the scaffold can be used to deliver tumour-antigen-specific T cells into the tumour. Peritumourally implanted immunomodulatory scaffolds may represent a general strategy to enhance T-cell immunity and avoid the toxicities of systemic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh S Majedi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Symphony Biosciences Inc, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | | | - Timothy J Thauland
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sundeep G Keswani
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Louis-S Bouchard
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Manish J Butte
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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23
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Estevez-Ordonez D, Gary SE, Atchley TJ, Maleknia PD, George JA, Laskay NMB, Gross EG, Devulapalli RK, Johnston JM. Immunotherapy for Pediatric Brain and Spine Tumors: Current State and Future Directions. Pediatr Neurosurg 2022; 58:313-336. [PMID: 36549282 PMCID: PMC10233708 DOI: 10.1159/000528792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Incidence in the USA has been on the rise for the last 2 decades. While therapeutic advances in diagnosis and treatment have improved survival and quality of life in many children, prognosis remains poor and current treatments have significant long-term sequelae. SUMMARY There is a substantial need for the development of new therapeutic approaches, and since the introduction of immunotherapy by immune checkpoint inhibitors, there has been an exponential increase in clinical trials to adopt these and other immunotherapy approaches in children with brain tumors. In this review, we summarize the current immunotherapy landscape for various pediatric brain tumor types including choroid plexus tumors, embryonal tumors (medulloblastoma, AT/RT, PNETs), ependymoma, germ cell tumors, gliomas, glioneuronal and neuronal tumors, and mesenchymal tumors. We discuss the latest clinical trials and noteworthy preclinical studies to treat these pediatric brain tumors using checkpoint inhibitors, cellular therapies (CAR-T, NK, T cell), oncolytic virotherapy, radioimmunotherapy, tumor vaccines, immunomodulators, and other targeted therapies. KEY MESSAGES The current landscape for immunotherapy in pediatric brain tumors is still emerging, but results in certain tumors have been promising. In the age of targeted therapy, genetic tumor profiling, and many ongoing clinical trials, immunotherapy will likely become an increasingly effective tool in the neuro-oncologist armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagoberto Estevez-Ordonez
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA,
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA,
| | - Sam E Gary
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Travis J Atchley
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Pedram D Maleknia
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jordan A George
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Nicholas M B Laskay
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Evan G Gross
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rishi K Devulapalli
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - James M Johnston
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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24
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Qin Y, Xu G. Enhancing CAR T-cell therapies against solid tumors: Mechanisms and reversion of resistance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1053120. [PMID: 36569859 PMCID: PMC9773088 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1053120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, belonging to adoptive immune cells therapy, utilizes engineered immunoreceptors to enhance tumor-specific killing. By now new generations of CAR T-cell therapies dramatically promote the effectiveness and robustness in leukemia cases. However, only a few CAR T-cell therapies gain FDA approval till now, which are applied to hematologic cancers. Targeting solid tumors through CAR T-cell therapies still faces many problems, such as tumor heterogeneity, antigen loss, infiltration inability and immunosuppressive micro-environment. Recent advances provide new insights about the mechanisms of CAR T-cell therapy resistance and give rise to potential reversal therapies. In this review, we mainly introduce existing barriers when treating solid tumors with CAR T-cells and discuss the methods to overcome these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Qin
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China,Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guotai Xu
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China,Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Guotai Xu,
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25
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Nasiri F, Kazemi M, Mirarefin SMJ, Mahboubi Kancha M, Ahmadi Najafabadi M, Salem F, Dashti Shokoohi S, Evazi Bakhshi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell therapy in triple-negative breast cancer: Hunting the invisible devil. Front Immunol 2022; 13. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as the most intricate and hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer. TNBC cells do not express the well-known estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expressed by other breast cancer subtypes. This phenomenon leaves no room for novel treatment approaches including endocrine and HER2-specific antibody therapies. To date, surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy remain the principal therapy options for TNBC treatment. However, in numerous cases, these approaches either result in minimal clinical benefit or are nonfunctional, resulting in disease recurrence and poor prognosis. Nowadays, chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy is becoming more established as an option for the treatment of various types of hematologic malignancies. CAR-Ts are genetically engineered T lymphocytes that employ the body’s immune system mechanisms to selectively recognize cancer cells expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) of interest and efficiently eliminate them. However, despite the clinical triumph of CAR-T therapy in hematologic neoplasms, CAR-T therapy of solid tumors, including TNBC, has been much more challenging. In this review, we will discuss the success of CAR-T therapy in hematological neoplasms and its caveats in solid tumors, and then we summarize the potential CAR-T targetable TAAs in TNBC studied in different investigational stages.
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26
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Nasiri F, Kazemi M, Mirarefin SMJ, Mahboubi Kancha M, Ahmadi Najafabadi M, Salem F, Dashti Shokoohi S, Evazi Bakhshi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell therapy in triple-negative breast cancer: Hunting the invisible devil. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018786. [PMID: 36483567 PMCID: PMC9722775 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as the most intricate and hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer. TNBC cells do not express the well-known estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expressed by other breast cancer subtypes. This phenomenon leaves no room for novel treatment approaches including endocrine and HER2-specific antibody therapies. To date, surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy remain the principal therapy options for TNBC treatment. However, in numerous cases, these approaches either result in minimal clinical benefit or are nonfunctional, resulting in disease recurrence and poor prognosis. Nowadays, chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy is becoming more established as an option for the treatment of various types of hematologic malignancies. CAR-Ts are genetically engineered T lymphocytes that employ the body's immune system mechanisms to selectively recognize cancer cells expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) of interest and efficiently eliminate them. However, despite the clinical triumph of CAR-T therapy in hematologic neoplasms, CAR-T therapy of solid tumors, including TNBC, has been much more challenging. In this review, we will discuss the success of CAR-T therapy in hematological neoplasms and its caveats in solid tumors, and then we summarize the potential CAR-T targetable TAAs in TNBC studied in different investigational stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nasiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Production Platforms & Analytics, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mehrasa Kazemi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Thalassemia Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Maral Mahboubi Kancha
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Milad Ahmadi Najafabadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faeze Salem
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Setareh Dashti Shokoohi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Evazi Bakhshi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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27
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Chen Y, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Ma J. Congenital medulloblastoma in two brothers with SUFU-mutated Gorlin-Goltz syndrome: Case reports and literature review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:988798. [PMID: 36313636 PMCID: PMC9603755 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.988798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundCongenital medulloblastoma is very rare, and many cases involve germline mutations that can lead to inherited syndromes. Here, we first report two brothers with congenital medulloblastoma who were diagnosed with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome caused by SUFU mutation.Clinical presentationMedulloblastoma was detected in two brothers at 2 and 3 months of age, with very similar imaging features. Genetic testing revealed that both children and their mother carried SUFU gene germline mutations, and both brothers were diagnosed with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome.ConclusionGorlin-Goltz syndrome-associated congenital medulloblastoma with SUFU germline mutation is very rare. Pathological types mostly involve desmoplastic/nodular or extensive nodularity; chemotherapy is the main treatment, and studies revealing prognostic data are scarce.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yang Zhao
- *Correspondence: Jie Ma, ; Yang Zhao,
| | - Jie Ma
- *Correspondence: Jie Ma, ; Yang Zhao,
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28
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Schakelaar MY, Monnikhof M, Crnko S, Pijnappel E, Meeldijk J, Ten Broeke T, Bovenschen N. Cellular Immunotherapy for Medulloblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2022; 25:617-627. [PMID: 36219688 PMCID: PMC10076947 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor in children, making up ~20% of all primary pediatric brain tumors. Current therapies consist of maximal surgical resection and aggressive radio- and chemotherapy. A third of the treated patients cannot be cured and survivors are often left with devastating long-term side effects. Novel efficient and targeted treatment is desperately needed for this patient population. Cellular immunotherapy aims to enhance and utilize immune cells to target tumors, and has been proven successful in various cancers. However, for MB, the knowledge and possibilities of cellular immunotherapy are limited. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current status of cellular immunotherapy for MB, from fundamental in vitro research to in vivo models and (ongoing) clinical trials. In addition, we compare our findings to cellular immunotherapy in glioma, an MB-like intracranial tumor. Finally, future possibilities for MB are discussed to improve efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Y Schakelaar
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Monnikhof
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Crnko
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Bachelor Research Hub, Educational Center, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Emma Pijnappel
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Bachelor Research Hub, Educational Center, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Meeldijk
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Bachelor Research Hub, Educational Center, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Toine Ten Broeke
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Bachelor Research Hub, Educational Center, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Niels Bovenschen
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Bachelor Research Hub, Educational Center, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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29
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Duncan BB, Dunbar CE, Ishii K. Applying a Clinical Lens to Animal Models of CAR-T Cell Therapies. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 27:17-31. [PMID: 36156878 PMCID: PMC9478925 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have emerged as a promising treatment modality for various hematologic and solid malignancies over the past decade. Animal models remain the cornerstone of pre-clinical evaluation of human CAR-T cell products and are generally required by regulatory agencies prior to clinical translation. However, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of adoptively transferred T cells are dependent on various recipient factors, posing challenges for accurately predicting human engineered T cell behavior in non-human animal models. For example, murine xenograft models did not forecast now well-established cytokine-driven systemic toxicities of CAR-T cells seen in humans, highlighting the limitations of animal models that do not perfectly recapitulate complex human immune systems. Understanding the concordance as well as discrepancies between existing pre-clinical animal data and human clinical experiences, along with established advantages and limitations of each model, will facilitate investigators’ ability to appropriately select and design animal models for optimal evaluation of future CAR-T cell products. We summarize the current state of animal models in this field, and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach depending on the pre-clinical questions being asked.
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30
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Sun J, Li X, Chen P, Gao Y. From Anti-HER-2 to Anti-HER-2-CAR-T Cells: An Evolutionary Immunotherapy Approach for Gastric Cancer. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:4061-4085. [PMID: 35873388 PMCID: PMC9304417 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s368138] [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: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Current Therapeutic modalities provide no survival advantage to gastric cancer (GC) patients. Targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) is a viable therapeutic strategy against advanced HER-2 positive GC. Antibody-drug conjugates, small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and bispecific antibodies are emerging as novel drug forms that may abrogate the resistance to HER-2-specific drugs and monoclonal antibodies. Chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells (CAR-T) targeting HER-2 have shown considerable therapeutic potential in GC and other solid tumors. However, due to the high heterogeneity along with the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) of GC that often leads to immune escape, the immunological treatment of GC still faces many challenges. Here, we reviewed and discussed the current progress in the research of anti-HER-2-CAR-T cell immunotherapy against GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangang Sun
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongshun Gao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, People's Republic of China
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31
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Khang M, Bindra RS, Mark Saltzman W. Intrathecal delivery and its applications in leptomeningeal disease. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 186:114338. [PMID: 35561835 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Intrathecal delivery (IT) of opiates into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for anesthesia and pain relief has been used clinically for decades, but this relatively straightforward approach of bypassing the blood-brain barrier has been underutilized for other indications because of its lack of utility in delivering small lipid-soluble drugs. However, emerging evidence suggests that IT drug delivery be an efficacious strategy for the treatment of cancers in which there is leptomeningeal spread of disease. In this review, we discuss CSF flow dynamics and CSF clearance pathways in the context of intrathecal delivery. We discuss human and animal studies of several new classes of therapeutic agents-cellular, protein, nucleic acid, and nanoparticle-based small molecules-that may benefit from IT delivery. The complexity of the CSF compartment presents several key challenges in predicting biodistribution of IT-delivered drugs. New approaches and strategies are needed that can overcome the high rates of turnover in the CSF to reach specific tissues or cellular targets.
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32
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El Moukhtari SH, Garbayo E, Fernández-Teijeiro A, Rodríguez-Nogales C, Couvreur P, Blanco-Prieto MJ. Nanomedicines and cell-based therapies for embryonal tumors of the nervous system. J Control Release 2022; 348:553-571. [PMID: 35705114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Embryonal tumors of the nervous system are neoplasms predominantly affecting the pediatric population. Among the most common and aggressive ones are neuroblastoma (NB) and medulloblastoma (MB). NB is a sympathetic nervous system tumor, which is the most frequent extracranial solid pediatric cancer, usually detected in children under two. MB originates in the cerebellum and is one of the most lethal brain tumors in early childhood. Their tumorigenesis presents some similarities and both tumors often have treatment resistances and poor prognosis. High-risk (HR) patients require high dose chemotherapy cocktails associated with acute and long-term toxicities. Nanomedicine and cell therapy arise as potential solutions to improve the prognosis and quality of life of children suffering from these tumors. Indeed, nanomedicines have been demonstrated to efficiently reduce drug toxicity and improve drug efficacy. Moreover, these systems have been extensively studied in cancer research over the last few decades and an increasing number of anticancer nanocarriers for adult cancer treatment has reached the clinic. Among cell-based strategies, the clinically most advanced approach is chimeric-antigen receptor (CAR) T therapy for both pathologies, which is currently under investigation in phase I/II clinical trials. However, pediatric drug research is especially hampered due not only to ethical issues but also to the lack of efficient pre-clinical models and the inadequate design of clinical trials. This review provides an update on progress in the treatment of the main embryonal tumors of the nervous system using nanotechnology and cell-based therapies and discusses key issues behind the gap between preclinical studies and clinical trials in this specific area. Some directions to improve their translation into clinical practice and foster their development are also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souhaila H El Moukhtari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Universidad de Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, C/Irunlarrea 3, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elisa Garbayo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Universidad de Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, C/Irunlarrea 3, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Teijeiro
- Pediatric Onco-Hematology Unit, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, School of Medicine, Universidad de Sevilla, Avenida Dr, Fedriani 3, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; Sociedad Española de Hematología y Oncología Pediátricas (SEHOP), Spain
| | - Carlos Rodríguez-Nogales
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Couvreur
- Institut Galien Paris-Sud, UMRCNRS8612,Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry 92296, France
| | - María J Blanco-Prieto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Universidad de Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, C/Irunlarrea 3, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
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33
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Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Ahmadi Najafabadi M, Yousefi F, Mirarefin SMJ, Rahbarizadeh F. Recent Advances in Solid Tumor CAR-T Cell Therapy: Driving Tumor Cells From Hero to Zero? Front Immunol 2022; 13:795164. [PMID: 35634281 PMCID: PMC9130586 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.795164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR-Ts) are known as revolutionary living drugs that have turned the tables of conventional cancer treatments in certain hematologic malignancies such as B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) by achieving US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval based on their successful clinical outcomes. However, this type of therapy has not seen the light of victory in the fight against solid tumors because of various restricting caveats including heterogeneous tumor antigen expression and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) that negatively affect the tumor-site accessibility, infiltration, stimulation, activation, and persistence of CAR-Ts. In this review, we explore strategic twists including boosting vaccines and designing implementations that can support CAR-T expansion, proliferation, and tumoricidal capacity. We also step further by underscoring novel strategies for triggering endogenous antitumor responses and overcoming the limitation of poor CAR-T tumor-tissue infiltration and the lack of definitive tumor-specific antigens. Ultimately, we highlight how these approaches can address the mentioned arduous hurdles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Milad Ahmadi Najafabadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Yousefi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Rahbarizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Research and Development Center of Biotechnology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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34
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Lin YJ, Mashouf LA, Lim M. CAR T Cell Therapy in Primary Brain Tumors: Current Investigations and the Future. Front Immunol 2022; 13:817296. [PMID: 35265074 PMCID: PMC8899093 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.817296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR T cells) are engineered cells expressing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) against a specific tumor antigen (TA) that allows for the identification and elimination of cancer cells. The remarkable clinical effect seen with CAR T cell therapies against hematological malignancies have attracted interest in developing such therapies for solid tumors, including brain tumors. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults and is associated with poor prognosis due to its highly aggressive nature. Pediatric brain cancers are similarly aggressive and thus are a major cause of pediatric cancer-related death. CAR T cell therapy represents a promising avenue for therapy against these malignancies. Several specific TAs, such as EGFR/EGFRvIII, IL13Rα2, B7-H3, and HER2, have been targeted in preclinical studies and clinical trials. Unfortunately, CAR T cells against brain tumors have showed limited efficacy due to TA heterogeneity, difficulty trafficking from blood to tumor sites, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Here, we review current CAR T cell approaches in treating cancers, with particular focus on brain cancers. We also describe a novel technique of focused ultrasound controlling the activation of engineered CAR T cells to achieve the safer cell therapies. Finally, we summarize the development of combinational strategies to improve the efficacy and overcome historical limitations of CAR T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Jui Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Leila A Mashouf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael Lim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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35
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Eisemann T, Wechsler-Reya RJ. Coming in from the cold: overcoming the hostile immune microenvironment of medulloblastoma. Genes Dev 2022; 36:514-532. [PMID: 35680424 PMCID: PMC9186392 DOI: 10.1101/gad.349538.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor that occurs predominantly in children. Despite intensive therapy, many patients die of the disease, and novel therapies are desperately needed. Although immunotherapy has shown promise in many cancers, the low mutational burden, limited infiltration of immune effector cells, and immune-suppressive microenvironment of medulloblastoma have led to the assumption that it is unlikely to respond to immunotherapy. However, emerging evidence is challenging this view. Here we review recent preclinical and clinical studies that have identified mechanisms of immune evasion in medulloblastoma, and highlight possible therapeutic interventions that may give new hope to medulloblastoma patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Eisemann
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Robert J Wechsler-Reya
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92161, USA
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36
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Gabriel NN, Balaji K, Jayachandran K, Inkman M, Zhang J, Dahiya S, Goldstein M. Loss of H3K27 trimethylation promotes radiotherapy resistance in medulloblastoma and induces an actionable vulnerability to BET inhibition. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2019-2030. [PMID: 35315927 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-0871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma has been categorized into four subgroups based on genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional profiling. Radiation is used for treating medulloblastoma regardless of the subgroup. A better understanding of the molecular pathways determining radiotherapy response could help improve medulloblastoma treatment. Here, we investigated the role of the EZH2-dependent histone H3K27 trimethylation in radiotherapy response in medulloblastoma. The tumors in 47.2% of group 3 and 4 medulloblastoma patients displayed H3K27me3 deficiency. Loss of H3K27me3 was associated with a radioresistant phenotype, high relapse rates, and poor overall survival. In H3K27me3-deficient medulloblastoma cells, an epigenetic switch from H3K27me3 to H3K27ac occurred at specific genomic loci, altering the transcriptional profile. The resulting upregulation of EPHA2 stimulated excessive activation of the pro-survival AKT signaling pathway, leading to radiotherapy resistance. BET inhibition overcame radiation resistance in H3K27me3-deficient medulloblastoma cells by suppressing H3K27ac levels, blunting EPHA2 overexpression, and mitigating excessive AKT signaling. Additionally, BET inhibition sensitized medulloblastoma cells to radiation by enhancing the apoptotic response through suppression of Bcl-xL and upregulation of Bim. This work demonstrates a novel mechanism of radiation resistance in medulloblastoma and identifies an epigenetic marker predictive of radiotherapy response. Based on these findings, we propose an epigenetically guided treatment approach targeting radiotherapy resistance in medulloblastoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishanth N Gabriel
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Kumaresh Balaji
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Kay Jayachandran
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Matthew Inkman
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Jin Zhang
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Michael Goldstein
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Nguyen A, Johanning G, Shi Y. Emerging Novel Combined CAR-T Cell Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061403. [PMID: 35326556 PMCID: PMC8945996 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As a result of FDA approval of CAR-T cell treatments in the last few years, this immunotherapy has provided further direction to precision medicine through its combination with other therapeutic approaches. In the past year, several review articles have been published focusing on advances in this fast-developing field, especially with respect to efforts to overcome hurdles associated with applying CAR-T cells in solid tumors. This review paper focuses on combining CAR-T cell therapy with small molecule drugs, up-to-date progress in CAR-T cell therapy research, and advances in combined CAR-T immunotherapy with other treatments targeting solid tumors. Abstract Chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) T cells are T cells engineered to express membrane receptors with high specificity to recognize specific target antigens presented by cancer cells and are co-stimulated with intracellular signals to increase the T cell response. CAR-T cell therapy is emerging as a novel therapeutic approach to improve T cell specificity that will lead to advances in precision medicine. CAR-T cells have had impressive outcomes in hematological malignancies. However, there continue to be significant limitations of these therapeutic responses in targeting solid malignancies such as heterogeneous antigens in solid tumors, tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment, risk of on-target/off-tumor, infiltrating CAR-T cells, immunosuppressive checkpoint molecules, and cytokines. This review paper summarizes recent approaches and innovations through combination therapies of CAR-T cells and other immunotherapy or small molecule drugs to counter the above disadvantages to potentiate the activity of CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Nguyen
- College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA;
| | | | - Yihui Shi
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA
- Correspondence:
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Medulloblastoma: Immune microenvironment and targeted nano-therapy. OPENNANO 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onano.2022.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Cobb DA, de Rossi J, Liu L, An E, Lee DW. Targeting of the alpha v beta 3 integrin complex by CAR-T cells leads to rapid regression of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and glioblastoma. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2021-003816. [PMID: 35210306 PMCID: PMC8883284 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) and glioblastoma (GBM) are two highly aggressive and generally incurable gliomas with little therapeutic advancements made in the past several decades. Despite immense initial success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for the treatment of leukemia and lymphoma, significant headway into the application of CAR-T cells against solid tumors, including gliomas, is still forthcoming. The integrin complex alphav beta3 (αvβ3) is present on multiple and diverse solid tumor types and tumor vasculature with limited expression throughout most normal tissues, qualifying it as an appealing target for CAR-T cell-mediated immunotherapy. Methods Patient-derived DIPG and GBM cell lines were evaluated by flow cytometry for surface expression of αvβ3. Second-generation CAR-T cells expressing an anti-αvβ3 single-chain variable fragment were generated by retroviral transduction containing either a CD28 or 4-1BB costimulatory domain and CD3zeta. CAR-T cells were evaluated by flow cytometry for CAR expression, memory phenotype distribution, and inhibitory receptor profile. DIPG and GBM cell lines were orthotopically implanted into NSG mice via stereotactic injection and monitored with bioluminescent imaging to evaluate αvβ3 CAR-T cell-mediated antitumor responses. Results We found that patient-derived DIPG cells and GBM cell lines express high levels of surface αvβ3 by flow cytometry, while αvβ3 is minimally expressed on normal tissues by RNA sequencing and protein microarray. The manufactured CAR-T cells consisted of a substantial frequency of favorable early memory cells and a low inhibitory receptor profile. αvβ3 CAR-T cells demonstrated efficient, antigen-specific tumor cell killing in both cytotoxicity assays and in in vivo models of orthotopically and stereotactically implanted DIPG and GBM tumors into relevant locations in the brain of NSG mice. Tumor responses were rapid and robust with systemic CAR-T cell proliferation and long-lived persistence associated with long-term survival. Following tumor clearance, TCF-1+αvβ3 CAR-T cells were detectable, underscoring their ability to persist and undergo self-renewal. Conclusions These results highlight the potential of αvβ3 CAR-T cells for immunotherapeutic treatment of aggressive brain tumors with reduced risk of on-target, off-tumor mediated toxicity due to the restricted nature of αvβ3 expression in normal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin A Cobb
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jacopo de Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Lixia Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Erin An
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Daniel W Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA .,University of Virginia Cancer Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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40
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The Current Landscape of Targeted Clinical Trials in Non-WNT/Non-SHH Medulloblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030679. [PMID: 35158947 PMCID: PMC8833659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030679] [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: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Medulloblastoma is a form of malignant brain tumor that arises predominantly in infants and young children and can be divided into different groups based on molecular markers. The group of non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma includes a spectrum of heterogeneous subgroups that differ in their biological characteristics, genetic underpinnings, and clinical course of disease. Non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma is currently treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy; however, new drugs are needed to treat patients who are not yet curable and to reduce treatment-related toxicity and side effects. We here review which new treatment options for non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma are currently clinically tested. Furthermore, we illustrate the challenges that have to be overcome to reach a new therapeutic standard for non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma, for instance the current lack of good preclinical models, and the necessity to conduct trials in a comparably small patient collective. Abstract Medulloblastoma is an embryonal pediatric brain tumor and can be divided into at least four molecularly defined groups. The category non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma summarizes medulloblastoma groups 3 and 4 and is characterized by considerable genetic and clinical heterogeneity. New therapeutic strategies are needed to increase survival rates and to reduce treatment-related toxicity. We performed a noncomprehensive targeted review of the current clinical trial landscape and literature to summarize innovative treatment options for non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma. A multitude of new drugs is currently evaluated in trials for which non-WNT/non-SHH patients are eligible, for instance immunotherapy, kinase inhibitors, and drugs targeting the epigenome. However, the majority of these trials is not restricted to medulloblastoma and lacks molecular classification. Whereas many new molecular targets have been identified in the last decade, which are currently tested in clinical trials, several challenges remain on the way to reach a new therapeutic strategy for non-WNT/non-SHH medulloblastoma. These include the severe lack of faithful preclinical models and predictive biomarkers, the question on how to stratify patients for clinical trials, and the relative lack of studies that recruit large, homogeneous patient collectives. Innovative trial designs and international collaboration will be a key to eventually overcome these obstacles.
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Zuccari G, Alfei S, Marimpietri D, Iurilli V, Barabino P, Marchitto L. Mini-Tablets: A Valid Strategy to Combine Efficacy and Safety in Pediatrics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:108. [PMID: 35056165 PMCID: PMC8779937 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the treatment of pediatric diseases, mass-produced dosage forms are often not suitable for children. Commercially available medicines are commonly manipulated and mixed with food by caregivers at home, or extemporaneous medications are routinely compounded in the hospital pharmacies to treat hospitalized children. Despite considerable efforts by regulatory agencies, the pediatric population is still exposed to questionable and potentially harmful practices. When designing medicines for children, the ability to fine-tune the dosage while ensuring the safety of the ingredients is of paramount importance. For these purposes solid formulations may represent a valid alternative to liquid formulations for their simpler formula and more stability, and, to overcome the problem of swelling ability, mini-tablets could be a practicable option. This review deals with the different approaches that may be applied to develop mini-tablets intended for pediatrics with a focus on the safety of excipients. Alongside the conventional method of compression, 3D printing appeared particularly appealing, as it allows to reduce the number of ingredients and to avoid both the mixing of powders and intermediate steps such as granulation. Therefore, this technique could be well adaptable to the daily galenic preparations of a hospital pharmacy, thus leading to a reduction of the common practice of off-label preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guendalina Zuccari
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano, 16148 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Silvana Alfei
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano, 16148 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Danilo Marimpietri
- Stem Cell Laboratory and Cell Therapy Center, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Valentina Iurilli
- Pharmacy, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (V.I.); (P.B.)
| | - Paola Barabino
- Pharmacy, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (V.I.); (P.B.)
| | - Leonardo Marchitto
- Department of Sciences for the Quality of Life, University of Bologna, Corso D’Augusto 237, 47921 Rimini, Italy;
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Nobili A, Kobayashi A, Gedeon PC, Novina CD. Clutch Control: Changing the Speed and Direction of CAR-T Cell Therapy. JOURNAL OF CANCER IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 4:52-59. [PMID: 36531912 PMCID: PMC9754302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Nobili
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA,Current Address: Dynamic Cell Therapies, Inc., 127 Western Ave., Allston, MA 02134, USA
| | - Aya Kobayashi
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Patrick C. Gedeon
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Carl D. Novina
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA,Correspondence should be addressed to Carl D. Novina,
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Hill RM, Plasschaert SLA, Timmermann B, Dufour C, Aquilina K, Avula S, Donovan L, Lequin M, Pietsch T, Thomale U, Tippelt S, Wesseling P, Rutkowski S, Clifford SC, Pfister SM, Bailey S, Fleischhack G. Relapsed Medulloblastoma in Pre-Irradiated Patients: Current Practice for Diagnostics and Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:126. [PMID: 35008290 PMCID: PMC8750207 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Relapsed medulloblastoma (rMB) accounts for a considerable, and disproportionate amount of childhood cancer deaths. Recent advances have gone someway to characterising disease biology at relapse including second malignancies that often cannot be distinguished from relapse on imaging alone. Furthermore, there are now multiple international early-phase trials exploring drug-target matches across a range of high-risk/relapsed paediatric tumours. Despite these advances, treatment at relapse in pre-irradiated patients is typically non-curative and focuses on providing life-prolonging and symptom-modifying care that is tailored to the needs and wishes of the individual and their family. Here, we describe the current understanding of prognostic factors at disease relapse such as principal molecular group, adverse molecular biology, and timing of relapse. We provide an overview of the clinical diagnostic process including signs and symptoms, staging investigations, and molecular pathology, followed by a summary of treatment modalities and considerations. Finally, we summarise future directions to progress understanding of treatment resistance and the biological mechanisms underpinning early therapy-refractory and relapsed disease. These initiatives include development of comprehensive and collaborative molecular profiling approaches at relapse, liquid biopsies such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a biomarker of minimal residual disease (MRD), modelling strategies, and the use of primary tumour material for real-time drug screening approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Hill
- Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (S.C.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Sabine L. A. Plasschaert
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.L.A.P.); (M.L.); (P.W.)
| | - Beate Timmermann
- Department of Particle Therapy, West German Proton Therapy Centre Essen (WPE), West German Cancer Center (WTZ), University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany;
| | - Christelle Dufour
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy, 94800 Villejuif, France;
| | - Kristian Aquilina
- Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London WC1N 3JH, UK;
| | - Shivaram Avula
- Department of Radiology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK;
| | - Laura Donovan
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, UK;
| | - Maarten Lequin
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.L.A.P.); (M.L.); (P.W.)
| | - Torsten Pietsch
- Institute of Neuropathology, DGNN Brain Tumor Reference Center, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Ulrich Thomale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Stephan Tippelt
- Department of Pediatrics III, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (CTNBS), University Hospital of Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany;
| | - Pieter Wesseling
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.L.A.P.); (M.L.); (P.W.)
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers/VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Steven C. Clifford
- Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (S.C.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefan M. Pfister
- Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Bailey
- Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (S.C.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Gudrun Fleischhack
- Department of Pediatrics III, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (CTNBS), University Hospital of Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany;
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Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Rahbarizadeh F. Addressing the obstacles of CAR T cell migration in solid tumors: wishing a heavy traffic. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2021; 42:1079-1098. [PMID: 34957875 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2021.1988509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy has been recognized as one of the most prosperous treatment options against certain blood-based malignancies. However, the same clinical and commercial success have been out of range in the case of solid tumors. The main contributing factor in this regard is the hostile environment the tumor cells impose that results in the exhaustion of immune effector cells alongside the abrogation of their infiltration capacity. The discovery of the underlying mechanisms and the development of reliable counterstrategies to overcome the inaccessibility of CAR-Ts to their target cells might correlate with encouraging clinical outcomes in advanced solid tumors. Here, we highlight the successive physical and metabolic barriers that systemically administered CAR-Ts face on their journey toward their target cells. Moreover, we propose meticulously-devised countertactics and combination therapies that can be applied to maximize the therapeutic benefits of CAR-T therapies against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Medical Biotechnology Research Center, School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rahbarizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Research and Development Center of Biotechnology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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45
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Leruste A, Beccaria K, Doz F. CAR-T cells for pediatric brain tumors: Present and future. Bull Cancer 2021; 108:S109-S116. [PMID: 34920793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR-T) cells are currently approved for B cell malignancies only, in children and adults. Despite a lack of robust evidence to approve such cellular immunotherapy for pediatric solid tumors, there is a growing interest for this approach in the treatment of pediatric brain tumors. Following the identification of tumor antigens as targets, the first clinical trials demonstrated some degree of clinical and biological responses to CAR-T cells for such tumor types. Additionaly, several preclinical studies have recently identified new attractive targets and antigen combination strategies, along with a superior tumor trafficking following locoregional administration. We review here the preclinical and clinical knowledge at the basis of the current clinical development of CAR-T cells for pediatric brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaury Leruste
- PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children and AYA with Cancer), Institut Curie, Paris, France.
| | - Kevin Beccaria
- Université de Paris, AP-HP, Necker Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, 149, rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - François Doz
- PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children and AYA with Cancer), Institut Curie, Paris, France
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46
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De Bousser E, Callewaert N, Festjens N. T Cell Engaging Immunotherapies, Highlighting Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T Cell Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6067. [PMID: 34885176 PMCID: PMC8657024 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13236067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell technology has revolutionized cancer immunotherapy. This strategy uses synthetic CARs to redirect the patient's own immune cells to recognize specific antigens expressed on the surface of tumor cells. The unprecedented success of anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapy against B cell malignancies has resulted in its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017. However, major scientific challenges still remain to be addressed for the broad use of CAR T cell therapy. These include severe toxicities, limited efficacy against solid tumors, and immune suppression in the hostile tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, CAR T cell therapy is a personalized medicine of which the production is time- and resource-intensive, which makes it very expensive. All these factors drive new innovations to engineer more powerful CAR T cells with improved antitumor activity, which are reviewed in this manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elien De Bousser
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB)—UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nico Callewaert
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB)—UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nele Festjens
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB)—UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Technologiepark—Zwijnaarde 75, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
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47
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Zhang J, Wang T. Immune cell landscape and immunotherapy of medulloblastoma. Pediatr Investig 2021; 5:299-309. [PMID: 34938973 PMCID: PMC8666938 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common primary pediatric malignancy of the central nervous system. Recurrent and refractory patients account for approximately 30% of them. Immune cells are an important component of the brain tumor microenvironment, including tumor-associated macrophages, T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, neutrophils and B lymphocytes. Understanding how they behave and interact is important in the investigation of the onset and progression of medulloblastoma. Here, we overview the features and recent advances of each component of immune cells in medulloblastoma. Meanwhile, immunotherapy is a promising but also challenging treatment strategy for medulloblastoma. At present, there are a growing number of immunotherapeutic approaches under investigation including immune checkpoint inhibitors, oncolytic viruses, cancer vaccines, chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, and natural killer cells in recurrent and refractory medulloblastoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- Department of PediatricsBeijing Shijitan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Hematology Oncology CenterBeijing Children’s HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Tianyou Wang
- Hematology Oncology CenterBeijing Children’s HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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48
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Melcher V, Kerl K. The Growing Relevance of Immunoregulation in Pediatric Brain Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5601. [PMID: 34830753 PMCID: PMC8615622 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors are genetically heterogeneous solid neoplasms. With a prevailing poor prognosis and widespread resistance to conventional multimodal therapy, these aggressive tumors are the leading cause of childhood cancer-related deaths worldwide. Advancement in molecular research revealed their unique genetic and epigenetic characteristics and paved the way for more defined prognostication and targeted therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, uncovering the intratumoral metrics on a single-cell level placed non-malignant cell populations such as innate immune cells into the context of tumor manifestation and progression. Targeting immune cells in pediatric brain tumors entails unique challenges but promising opportunities to improve outcome. Herein, we outline the current understanding of the role of the immune regulation in pediatric brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Melcher
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Ferreras C, Fernández L, Clares-Villa L, Ibáñez-Navarro M, Martín-Cortázar C, Esteban-Rodríguez I, Saceda J, Pérez-Martínez A. Facing CAR T Cell Challenges on the Deadliest Paediatric Brain Tumours. Cells 2021; 10:2940. [PMID: 34831165 PMCID: PMC8616287 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) tumours comprise 25% of the paediatric cancer diagnoses and are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. Current treatments for paediatric CNS tumours are far from optimal and fail for those that relapsed or are refractory to treatment. Besides, long-term sequelae in the developing brain make it mandatory to find new innovative approaches. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T) therapy has increased survival in patients with B-cell malignancies, but the intrinsic biological characteristics of CNS tumours hamper their success. The location, heterogeneous antigen expression, limited infiltration of T cells into the tumour, the selective trafficking provided by the blood-brain barrier, and the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment have emerged as the main hurdles that need to be overcome for the success of CAR T cell therapy. In this review, we will focus mainly on the characteristics of the deadliest high-grade CNS paediatric tumours (medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and high-grade gliomas) and the potential of CAR T cell therapy to increase survival and patients' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ferreras
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.); (L.C.-V.); (C.M.-C.)
| | - Lucía Fernández
- Haematological Malignancies H12O, Clinical Research Department, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (L.F.); (M.I.-N.)
| | - Laura Clares-Villa
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.); (L.C.-V.); (C.M.-C.)
| | - Marta Ibáñez-Navarro
- Haematological Malignancies H12O, Clinical Research Department, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (L.F.); (M.I.-N.)
| | - Carla Martín-Cortázar
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.); (L.C.-V.); (C.M.-C.)
| | | | - Javier Saceda
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Antonio Pérez-Martínez
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.); (L.C.-V.); (C.M.-C.)
- Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Department, University Hospital La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Thomas P, Galopin N, Bonérandi E, Clémenceau B, Fougeray S, Birklé S. CAR T Cell Therapy's Potential for Pediatric Brain Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215445. [PMID: 34771608 PMCID: PMC8582542 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary T cells that are genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors constitute an effective new therapy with curative potential for patients with hematological tumors. The value of chimeric antigen receptor T cells in childhood brain tumors, the leading cause of cancer death in children, is less clear. In this context, the main obstacles for these engineered T cells remain how to find them, allow them to infiltrate, and induce them to remain active in the tumor site. Here, we discuss recent progress in the field and examine future directions for realizing the potential of this therapy. Abstract Malignant central nervous system tumors are the leading cause of cancer death in children. Progress in high-throughput molecular techniques has increased the molecular understanding of these tumors, but the outcomes are still poor. Even when efficacious, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy cause neurologic and neurocognitive morbidity. Adoptive cell therapy with autologous CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR T) has demonstrated remarkable remission rates in patients with relapsed refractory B cell malignancies. Unfortunately, tumor heterogeneity, the identification of appropriate target antigens, and location in a growing brain behind the blood–brain barrier within a specific suppressive immune microenvironment restrict the efficacy of this strategy in pediatric neuro-oncology. In addition, the vulnerability of the brain to unrepairable tissue damage raises important safety concerns. Recent preclinical findings, however, have provided a strong rationale for clinical trials of this approach in patients. Here, we examine the most important challenges associated with the development of CAR T cell immunotherapy and further present the latest preclinical strategies intending to optimize genetically engineered T cells’ efficiency and safety in the field of pediatric neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Thomas
- Université de Nantes, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France; (P.T.); (N.G.); (E.B.); (S.F.)
| | - Natacha Galopin
- Université de Nantes, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France; (P.T.); (N.G.); (E.B.); (S.F.)
| | - Emma Bonérandi
- Université de Nantes, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France; (P.T.); (N.G.); (E.B.); (S.F.)
| | - Béatrice Clémenceau
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, CNRS, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France;
| | - Sophie Fougeray
- Université de Nantes, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France; (P.T.); (N.G.); (E.B.); (S.F.)
| | - Stéphane Birklé
- Université de Nantes, INSERM, CRCINA, F-44000 Nantes, France; (P.T.); (N.G.); (E.B.); (S.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-228-08-03-00
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