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Baugh R, Khalique H, Page E, Lei-Rossmann J, Wan PKT, Johanssen T, Ebner D, Ansorge O, Seymour LW. Targeting NKG2D ligands in glioblastoma with a bispecific T-cell engager is augmented with conventional therapy and enhances oncolytic virotherapy of glioma stem-like cells. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008460. [PMID: 38724464 PMCID: PMC11086472 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma (GBM) almost invariably becomes resistant towards conventional treatment of radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy, partly due to subpopulations of intrinsically resistant glioma stem-like cells (GSC). The oncolytic herpes simplex virus-1 G207 is a promising approach for GBM virotherapy although its efficacy in patients with GBM is often limited. Natural killer group 2 member D ligands (NKG2DLs) are minimally expressed by healthy cells but are upregulated by the DNA damage response (DDR) and in malignant cells with chronic DDR signaling, resulting in innate immune activation. METHODS We have designed a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) capable of cross-linking CD3 on T cells with NKG2DL-expressing GBM cells. We then engineered the G207 virus to express the NKG2D BiTE and secrete it from infected cells. The efficacy of the free BiTE and BiTE delivered by G207 was evaluated in combination with conventional therapies in GBM cells and against patient-derived GSCs in the context of T-cell activation and target cell viability. RESULTS NKG2D BiTE-mediated cross-linking of GBM cells and T cells causes antigen-independent T-cell activation, pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and tumor cell death, thereby combining direct viral oncolysis with BiTE-mediated cytotoxicity. Surface NKG2DL expression was further elevated on GBM cells following pretreatment with sublethal doses of TMZ and radiation to induce the DDR, increasing sensitivity towards G207-NKG2D BiTE and achieving synergistic cytotoxicity. We also demonstrate a novel strategy for targeting GSCs that are non-permissive to G207 infection but remain sensitive to NKG2D BiTE. CONCLUSIONS We propose a potential model for targeting GSCs in heterogeneous tumors, whereby differentiated GBM cells infected with G207-NKG2D BiTE produce NKG2D BiTE locally, directing T-cell cytotoxicity towards the GSC subpopulations in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Baugh
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Hena Khalique
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Page
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Timothy Johanssen
- Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel Ebner
- Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Olaf Ansorge
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Stefańczyk SA, Hagelstein I, Lutz MS, Müller S, Holzmayer SJ, Jarjour G, Zekri L, Heitmann JS, Salih HR, Märklin M. Induction of NK cell reactivity against acute myeloid leukemia by Fc-optimized CD276 (B7-H3) antibody. Blood Cancer J 2024; 14:67. [PMID: 38637557 PMCID: PMC11026476 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-024-01050-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a therapeutic challenge despite recent therapeutic advances. Although monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) engaging natural killer (NK) cells via antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) hold promise in cancer therapy, almost none have received clinical approval for AML, so far. Recently, CD276 (B7-H3) has emerged as a promising target for AML immunotherapy, due to its high expression on leukemic blasts of AML patients. Here, we present the preclinical development of the Fc-optimized CD276 mAb 8H8_SDIE with enhanced CD16 affinity. We demonstrate that 8H8_SDIE specifically binds to CD276 on AML cell lines and primary AML cells and induces pronounced NK cell activation and degranulation as measured by CD69, CD25, and CD107a. Secretion of IFNγ, TNF, granzyme B, granulysin, and perforin, which mediate NK cell effector functions, was induced by 8H8_SDIE. A pronounced target cell-restricted lysis of AML cell lines and primary AML cells was observed in cytotoxicity assays using 8H8_SDIE. Finally, xenograft models with 8H8_SDIE did not cause off-target immune activation and effectively inhibited leukemia growth in vivo. We here present a novel attractive immunotherapeutic compound that potently induces anti-leukemic NK cell reactivity in vitro and in vivo as treatment option for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia A Stefańczyk
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ilona Hagelstein
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martina S Lutz
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Müller
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Samuel J Holzmayer
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Grace Jarjour
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Latifa Zekri
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jonas S Heitmann
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R Salih
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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Ahmadi N, Zareinejad M, Ameri M, Mahmoudi Maymand E, Nooreddin Faraji S, Ghaderi A, Ramezani A. Enhancing cancer immunotherapy with Anti-NKG2D/IL-15(N72D)/Sushi fusion protein: Targeting cytotoxic immune cells and boosting IL-15 efficacy. Cytokine 2024; 176:156505. [PMID: 38301357 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156505] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are a number of distinct challenges and complexities associated with administering IL-15 for cancer immunotherapy that must be taken into consideration. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to design a fusion protein for targeting cytotoxic immune cells and enhance IL-15 efficiency. METHODS A fusokine that contains IL-15(N72D), a Sushi domain, and anti-NKG2D scFv was designed. The fusion protein was in-silico modeled using the Swiss model server, followed by docking and molecular dynamics simulations. The in-vitro purified fusokine was evaluated using dot blot and Western blot. Then, flow cytometry was employed to evaluate biological properties such as proliferation, cytotoxicity, and degranulation. RESULTS Fusokine and IL-15(N72D)/Sushi, which had molecular weights of about 52 kDa and 26 kDa, respectively, were expressed in CHO-K1 cells. The fusokine binds 69.6 % of the CHO-NKG2D+ cells that express 83.1 % NKG2D. Both the fusokine and the IL-15(N72D)/Sushi significantly stimulate the proliferation of lymphocytes. After 14 days of growth, the vitality of untreated cells decreased to about 17.5 %, but 82.2 % and 56.6 % of cells were still alive when fusokine and IL-15(N72D)/Sushi were present. Furthermore, administration of fusokine was associated with the highest rates of target tumor cell cytotoxicity. Additionally, although it was not statistically significant, fusokine increased the expression of CD107a and granzyme B by 1.25 times and 2.4 times, respectively. CONCLUSION The fusokine possesses the capability to stimulate the survival and multiplication of lymphocytes, as well as their ability to eliminate tumors. These characteristics have led to its consideration as a potential treatment for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammadrasul Zareinejad
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Ameri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Mahmoudi Maymand
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Nooreddin Faraji
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abbas Ghaderi
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amin Ramezani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Momayyezi P, Bilev E, Ljunggren HG, Hammer Q. Viral escape from NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance: A lesson for cancer immunotherapy? Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2350465. [PMID: 37526136 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that participate in immune responses against virus-infected cells and tumors. As a countermeasure, viruses and tumors employ strategies to evade NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance. In this review, we examine immune evasion strategies employed by viruses, focusing on examples from human CMV and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. We explore selected viral evasion mechanisms categorized into three classes: (1) providing ligands for the inhibitory receptor NKG2A, (2) downregulating ligands for the activating receptor NKG2D, and (3) inducing the immunosuppressive cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. For each class, we draw parallels between immune evasion by viruses and tumors, reviewing potential opportunities for overcoming evasion in cancer therapy. We suggest that in-depth investigations of host-pathogen interactions between viruses and NK cells will not only deepen our understanding of viral immune evasion but also shed light on how NK cells counter such evasion attempts. Thus, due to the parallels of immune evasion by viruses and tumors, we propose that insights gained from antiviral NK-cell responses may serve as valuable lessons that can be leveraged for designing future cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouria Momayyezi
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eleni Bilev
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Quirin Hammer
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
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5
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Lutz S, Klausz K, Albici AM, Ebinger L, Sellmer L, Teipel H, Frenzel A, Langner A, Winterberg D, Krohn S, Hust M, Schirrmann T, Dübel S, Scherließ R, Humpe A, Gramatzki M, Kellner C, Peipp M. Novel NKG2D-directed bispecific antibodies enhance antibody-mediated killing of malignant B cells by NK cells and T cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227572. [PMID: 37965326 PMCID: PMC10641740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The activating receptor natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) represents an attractive target for immunotherapy as it exerts a crucial role in cancer immunosurveillance by regulating the activity of cytotoxic lymphocytes. In this study, a panel of novel NKG2D-specific single-chain fragments variable (scFv) were isolated from naïve human antibody gene libraries and fused to the fragment antigen binding (Fab) of rituximab to obtain [CD20×NKG2D] bibodies with the aim to recruit cytotoxic lymphocytes to lymphoma cells. All bispecific antibodies bound both antigens simultaneously. Two bibody constructs, [CD20×NKG2D#3] and [CD20×NKG2D#32], efficiently activated natural killer (NK) cells in co-cultures with CD20+ lymphoma cells. Both bibodies triggered NK cell-mediated lysis of lymphoma cells and especially enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) by CD38 or CD19 specific monoclonal antibodies suggesting a synergistic effect between NKG2D and FcγRIIIA signaling pathways in NK cell activation. The [CD20×NKG2D] bibodies were not effective in redirecting CD8+ T cells as single agents, but enhanced cytotoxicity when combined with a bispecific [CD19×CD3] T cell engager, indicating that NKG2D signaling also supports CD3-mediated T cell activation. In conclusion, engagement of NKG2D with bispecific antibodies is attractive to directly activate cytotoxic lymphocytes or to support their activation by monoclonal antibodies or bispecific T cell engagers. As a perspective, co-targeting of two tumor antigens may allow fine-tuning of antibody cancer therapies. Our proposed combinatorial approach is potentially applicable for many existing immunotherapies but further testing in different preclinical models is necessary to explore the full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Lutz
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Katja Klausz
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anca-Maria Albici
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Ebinger
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Sellmer
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hannah Teipel
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Anna Langner
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Dorothee Winterberg
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Steffen Krohn
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael Hust
- YUMAB GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Abteilung Biotechnologie, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Dübel
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Abteilung Biotechnologie, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Regina Scherließ
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas Humpe
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Gramatzki
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Kellner
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Peipp
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
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Kaidun P, Holzmayer SJ, Greiner SM, Seller A, Tegeler CM, Hagelstein I, Mauermann J, Engler T, Koch A, Hartkopf AD, Salih HR, Märklin M. Targeting NKG2DL with Bispecific NKG2D-CD16 and NKG2D-CD3 Fusion Proteins on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13156. [PMID: 37685962 PMCID: PMC10487695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a particularly aggressive subtype of breast cancer with a poor response rate to conventional systemic treatment and high relapse rates. Members of the natural killer group 2D ligand (NKG2DL) family are expressed on cancer cells but are typically absent from healthy tissues; thus, they are promising tumor antigens for novel immunotherapeutic approaches. We developed bispecific fusion proteins (BFPs) consisting of the NKG2D receptor domain targeting multiple NKG2DLs, fused to either anti-CD3 (NKG2D-CD3) or anti-CD16 (NKG2D-CD16) Fab fragments. First, we characterized the expression of the NKG2DLs (MICA, MICB, ULBP1-4) on TNBC cell lines and observed the highest surface expression for MICA and ULBP2. Targeting TNBC cells with NKG2D-CD3/CD16 efficiently activated both NK and T cells, leading to their degranulation and cytokine release and lysis of TNBC cells. Furthermore, PBMCs from TNBC patients currently undergoing chemotherapy showed significantly higher NK and T cell activation and tumor cell lysis when stimulated with NKG2D-CD3/CD16. In conclusions, BFPs activate and direct the NK and T cells of healthy and TNBC patients against TNBC cells, leading to efficient eradication of tumor cells. Therefore, NKG2D-based NK and T cell engagers could be a valuable addition to the treatment options for TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina Kaidun
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Samuel J. Holzmayer
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sarah M. Greiner
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Anna Seller
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Christian M. Tegeler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Ilona Hagelstein
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Jonas Mauermann
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Engler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - André Koch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Andreas D. Hartkopf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (C.M.T.); (T.E.); (A.K.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Helmut R. Salih
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (P.K.); (S.J.H.); (S.M.G.); (A.S.); (I.H.); (J.M.); (H.R.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image–Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
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7
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Merino A, Maakaron J, Bachanova V. Advances in NK cell therapy for hematologic malignancies: NK source, persistence and tumor targeting. Blood Rev 2023; 60:101073. [PMID: 36959057 PMCID: PMC10979648 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101073] [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: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells yield promise in therapy of hematologic malignancies. The clinical experience with adoptively transferred allogeneic NK cells over past two decades has revealed safety and minimal risk of CRS or ICANS. Unlike T cells which have to be genetically altered to avoid graft vs host disease (GVHD), HLA mismatched NK cells can be infused without GVHD risk. This makes them ideal for the development of off-the-shelf products. In this review we focus on NK biology relevant to the cancer therapy, the trajectory of NK therapeutics for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma; and advantages of the NK cell platform. We will also discuss novel methods to enhance NK cell targeting, persistence, and function in the tumor microenvironment. The future of NK cell therapy depends on novel strategies to realize these qualities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Merino
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Joseph Maakaron
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Veronika Bachanova
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America.
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8
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Xiao X, Cheng Y, Zheng X, Fang Y, Zhang Y, Sun R, Tian Z, Sun H. Bispecific NK-cell engager targeting BCMA elicits stronger antitumor effects and produces less proinflammatory cytokines than T-cell engager. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1113303. [PMID: 37114050 PMCID: PMC10126364 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1113303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies have attracted more attention in recent years for the treatment of tumors, in which most of them target CD3, which mediates the killing of tumor cells by T cells. However, T-cell engager may cause serious side effects, including neurotoxicity and cytokine release syndrome. More safe treatments are still needed to address unmet medical needs, and NK cell-based immunotherapy is a safer and more effective way to treat tumors. Our study developed two IgG-like bispecific antibodies with the same configuration: BT1 (BCMA×CD3) attracted T cells and tumor cells, while BK1 (BCMA×CD16) attracted NK cells and tumor cells. Our study showed that BK1 mediated NK cell activation and upregulated the expression of CD69, CD107a, IFN-γ and TNF. In addition, BK1 elicited a stronger antitumor effect than BT1 both in vitro and in vivo. Combinatorial treatment (BK1+BT1) showed a stronger antitumor effect than either treatment alone, as indicated by in vitro experiments and in vivo murine models. More importantly, BK1 induced fewer proinflammatory cytokines than BT1 both in vitro and in vivo. Surprisingly, BK1 reduced cytokine production in the combinatorial treatment, suggesting the indispensable role of NK cells in the control of cytokine secretion by T cells. In conclusion, our study compared NK-cell engagers and T-cell engagers targeting BCMA. The results indicated that NK-cell engagers were more effective with less proinflammatory cytokine production. Furthermore, the use of NK-cell engagers in combinatorial treatment helped to reduce cytokine secretion by T cells, suggesting a bright future for NK-cell engagers in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghui Xiao
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yuhang Fang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Hefei TG ImmunoPharma Corporation Limited, Hefei, China
| | - Haoyu Sun
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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9
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Maurer S, Zhong X, Prada BD, Mascarenhas J, de Andrade LF. The Latest Breakthroughs in Immunotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, with a Special Focus on NKG2D Ligands. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15907. [PMID: 36555547 PMCID: PMC9784434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by clonal expansion of stem and myeloid progenitor cells. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the care for other cancers such as solid tumors and lymphomas, and has the potential to effectively treat AML. There has been substantial progress in the developments of immunotherapeutic approaches for AML over the last several years, including the development of antibodies that further increase the innate immunogenicity of leukemia cells by the inhibition of NKG2D ligand-particularly MICA and MICB-shedding, chimeric proteins such as IL-15 superagonist that expand natural killer (NK) cells, blockers of immunologic checkpoints such as NKG2A, and chemicals that indirectly increase expression of immune stimulatory proteins in leukemia stem cells. Furthermore, cellular therapies have been designed to enable alloreactive immunity by allogeneic NK cells or target leukemia antigens such as mutated NPM1. These immunotherapeutic approaches have demonstrated remarkable efficacies in preclinical studies and have successfully transitioned to early phase clinical trials, to establish safety and initial signal of clinical activity. Here, we briefly discuss some of the most recent and impactful developments in the AML immunotherapy field and provide our perspectives for the future directions of this exciting and new therapeutic opportunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Maurer
- Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Xiaoxuan Zhong
- Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Betsy Deza Prada
- Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - John Mascarenhas
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Lucas Ferrari de Andrade
- Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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10
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Zheng F, Zhang W, Yang B, Chen M. Multi-omics profiling identifies C1QA/B + macrophages with multiple immune checkpoints associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) liver metastasis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1249. [PMID: 36544679 PMCID: PMC9761157 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly lethal malignant tumor lacking effective treatments; 20% of ESCC patients develop liver metastasis with an extremely short survival time of ≈5 months. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in tumor homeostasis, but the relationship between the ESCC TME and liver metastasis is still unknown. Methods To identify potential cell populations contributing to ESCC liver metastasis, single-cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing data were analyzed to identify the major cell populations within the TME. Each of the major cell populations was re-clustered to define detailed cell subsets. Thereafter, the gene set variation analysis (GSVA) score was calculated for the bulk RNA-seq data based on the gene signatures of each cell subset. The relationship between the GSVA score of each cellular subset and clinical outcome was further analyzed to identify the cellular subset associated with ESCC liver metastasis, which was validated by multiplex immunohistochemistry. Results C1QA/B+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) acted as the central regulator of the ESCC TME, closely associated with several key cell subsets. Several immune checkpoints, including CD40, CD47 and LGALS9, were all positively expressed in C1QA/B+ macrophages, which may exert central regulatory control of immune evasion by ESCC via these immune checkpoints expressions. Conclusions Our results comprehensively revealed the landscape of tumor-infiltrating immune cells associated with ESCC prognosis and metastasis, and suggest a novel strategy for developing immunotherapies for ESCC liver metastasis by targeting C1QA/B+ TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Baihua Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Mingqiu Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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11
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Hagelstein I, Engel M, Hinterleitner C, Manz T, Märklin M, Jung G, Salih HR, Zekri L. B7-H3-targeting Fc-optimized antibody for induction of NK cell reactivity against sarcoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1002898. [PMID: 36275693 PMCID: PMC9585277 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1002898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells largely contribute to antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), a central factor for success of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) treatment of cancer. The B7 family member B7-H3 (CD276) recently receives intense interest as a novel promising target antigen for immunotherapy. B7-H3 is highly expressed in many tumor entities, whereas expression on healthy tissues is rather limited. We here studied expression of B7-H3 in sarcoma, and found substantial levels to be expressed in various bone and soft-tissue sarcoma subtypes. To date, only few immunotherapeutic options for treatment of sarcomas that are limited to a minority of patients are available. We here used a B7-H3 mAb to generate chimeric mAbs containing either a wildtype Fc-part (8H8_WT) or a variant Fc part with amino-acid substitutions (S239D/I332E) to increase affinity for CD16 expressing NK cells (8H8_SDIE). In comparative studies we found that 8H8_SDIE triggers profound NK cell functions such as activation, degranulation, secretion of IFNγ and release of NK effector molecules, resulting in potent lysis of different sarcoma cells and primary sarcoma cells derived from patients. Our findings emphasize the potential of 8H8_SDIE as novel compound for treatment of sarcomas, particularly since B7-H3 is expressed in bone and soft-tissue sarcoma independent of their subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Hagelstein
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Monika Engel
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department for Immunology and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Clemens Hinterleitner
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Timo Manz
- Department for Immunology and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Gundram Jung
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department for Immunology and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R. Salih
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Latifa Zekri
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department for Immunology and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
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12
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Angenendt L, Mikesch JH, Schliemann C. Emerging antibody-based therapies for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Treat Rev 2022; 108:102409. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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13
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Rahmani S, Yazdanpanah N, Rezaei N. Natural killer cells and acute myeloid leukemia: promises and challenges. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2022; 71:2849-2867. [PMID: 35639116 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03217-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is considered as one of the most malignant conditions of the bone marrow. Over the past few decades, despite substantial progresses in the management of AML, relapse remission remains a major problem. Natural killer cells (NK cells) are known as a unique component of the innate immune system. Due to swift tumor detection, distinct cytotoxic action, and extensive immune interaction, NK cells have been used in various cancer settings for decades. It has been a growing knowledge of therapeutic magnitudes ranging from adoptive NK cell transfer to chimeric antigen receptor NK cells, aiming to achieve better therapeutic responses in patients with AML. In this article, the potentials of NK cells for treatment of AML are highlighted, and challenges for such therapeutic methods are discussed. In addition, the clinical application of NK cells, mainly in patients with AML, is pictured according to the existing evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayan Rahmani
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Yazdanpanah
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran. .,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Vaněk O, Kalousková B, Abreu C, Nejadebrahim S, Skořepa O. Natural killer cell-based strategies for immunotherapy of cancer. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 129:91-133. [PMID: 35305726 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a family of lymphocytes with a natural ability to kill infected, harmed, or malignantly transformed cells. As these cells are part of the innate immunity, the cytotoxic mechanisms are activated upon recognizing specific patterns without prior antigen sensitization. This recognition is crucial for NK cell function in the maintenance of homeostasis and immunosurveillance. NK cells not only act directly toward malignant cells but also participate in the complex immune response by producing cytokines or cross-talk with other immune cells. Cancer may be seen as a break of all immune defenses when malignant cells escape the immunity and invade surrounding tissues creating a microenvironment supporting tumor progression. This process may be reverted by intervening immune response with immunotherapy, which may restore immune recognition. NK cells are important effector cells for immunotherapy. They may be used for adoptive cell transfer, genetically modified with chimeric antigen receptors, or triggered with appropriate antibodies and other antibody-fragment-based recombinant therapeutic proteins tailored specifically for NK cell engagement. NK cell receptors, responsible for target recognition and activation of cytotoxic response, could also be targeted in immunotherapy, for example, by various bi-, tri-, or multi-specific fusion proteins designed to bridge the gap between tumor markers present on target cells and activation receptors expressed on NK cells. However, this kind of immunoactive therapeutics may be developed only with a deep functional and structural knowledge of NK cell receptor: ligand interactions. This review describes the recent developments in the fascinating protein-engineering field of NK cell immunotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Vaněk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Barbora Kalousková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Celeste Abreu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Shiva Nejadebrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Skořepa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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15
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Lutz MS, Klimovich B, Maurer S, Heitmann JS, Märklin M, Zekri L, Jung G, Salih HR, Hinterleitner C. Platelets subvert antitumor efficacy of T cell-recruiting bispecific antibodies. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2021-003655. [PMID: 35110356 PMCID: PMC8811601 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell-based immunotherapy, for example, with T cell-recruiting bispecific antibody (bsAb), has revolutionized oncological treatment. However, many patients do not respond to treatment, and long-term remissions are still rare. Several tumor immune evasion mechanisms have been reported to counteract efficiency of T cell-engaging therapeutics. Platelets largely affect cancer pathophysiology by mediating tumor invasion, metastasis, and immune evasion. On treatment of patients in a clinical trial with a PSMA×CD3 bsAb (NCT04104607), we observed profound treatment-associated platelet activation, mirrored by a decrease of total platelet count. On modeling the treatment setting, we found that platelet activation significantly reduced bsAb-mediated CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell reactivity as revealed by impaired T-cell degranulation, secretion of perforin, and ultimately, inhibition of target cell lysis. This effect occurred in a transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)-dependent manner and was not restricted to PSMA×CD3 bsAb, but rather observed with various CD3-directed bispecific constructs, including the approved CD19×CD3 bsAb blinatumomab. BsAb-mediated T-cell reactivity could be restored by platelet inhibition and specifically by blocking the TGF-β axis. Together, our findings demonstrate that platelets undermine the efficacy of T cell-recruiting bsAb and identify modulation of platelet function as a means to reinforce the effectiveness of bsAb treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Svenja Lutz
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Boris Klimovich
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Maurer
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jonas S Heitmann
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Latifa Zekri
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany.,Immunology, University of Tübingen Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Gundram Jung
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany.,Immunology, University of Tübingen Interfaculty Institute of Cell Biology, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R Salih
- CCU Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, UKT, Tubingen, Germany .,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Clemens Hinterleitner
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany.,Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), UKT, Tubingen, Germany
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16
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Campos-Silva C, López-Borrego S, Felgueres MJ, Esteso G, Vales-Gomez M. NKG2D Ligands in Liquid Biopsy: The Importance of Soluble and Vesicle-Bound Proteins for Immune Modulation. Crit Rev Immunol 2022; 42:21-40. [PMID: 36374819 DOI: 10.1615/critrevimmunol.2022045263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers allowing diagnostics, prognostics and patient classification is still a challenge in oncological research for patient management. Improvements in patient survival achieved with immunotherapies substantiate that biomarker studies rely not only on cellular pathways contributing to the pathology, but also on the immune competence of the patient. If these immune molecules can be studied in a non-invasive manner, the benefit for patients and clinicians is obvious. The immune receptor Natural Killer Group 2 Member D (NKG2D) represents one of the main systems involved in direct recognition of tumor cells by effector lymphocytes (T and Natural Killer cells), and in immune evasion. The biology of NKG2D and its ligands comprises a complex network of cellular pathways leading to the expression of these tumor-associated ligands on the cell surface or to their release either as soluble proteins, or in extracellular vesicles that potently inhibit NKG2D-mediated responses. Increased levels of NKG2D-ligands in patient serum correlate with tumor progression and poor prognosis; however, most studies did not test the biochemical form of these molecules. Here we review the biology of the NKG2D receptor and ligands, their role in cancer and in patient response to immunotherapies, as well as the changes provoked in this system by non-immune cancer therapies. Further, we discuss the use of NKG2D-L in liquid biopsy, including methods to analyse vesicle-associated proteins. We propose that the evaluation in cancer patients of the whole NKG2D system can provide crucial information about patient immune competence and risk of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Campos-Silva
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia López-Borrego
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Felgueres
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gloria Esteso
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Vales-Gomez
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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17
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Kalousková B, Skořepa O, Cmunt D, Abreu C, Krejčová K, Bláha J, Sieglová I, Král V, Fábry M, Pola R, Pechar M, Vaněk O. Tumor Marker B7-H6 Bound to the Coiled Coil Peptide-Polymer Conjugate Enables Targeted Therapy by Activating Human Natural Killer Cells. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111597. [PMID: 34829829 PMCID: PMC8615638 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted cancer immunotherapy is a promising tool for restoring immune surveillance and eradicating cancer cells. Hydrophilic polymers modified with coiled coil peptide tags can be used as universal carriers designed for cell-specific delivery of such biologically active proteins. Here, we describe the preparation of pHPMA-based copolymer conjugated with immunologically active protein B7-H6 via complementary coiled coil VAALEKE (peptide E) and VAALKEK (peptide K) sequences. Receptor B7-H6 was described as a binding partner of NKp30, and its expression has been proven for various tumor cell lines. The binding of B7-H6 to NKp30 activates NK cells and results in Fas ligand or granzyme-mediated apoptosis of target tumor cells. In this work, we optimized the expression of coiled coil tagged B7-H6, its ability to bind activating receptor NKp30 has been confirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry, and the binding stoichiometry of prepared chimeric biopolymer has been characterized by analytical ultracentrifugation. Furthermore, this coiled coil B7-H6-loaded polymer conjugate activates NK cells in vitro and, in combination with coiled coil scFv, enables their targeting towards a model tumor cell line. Prepared chimeric biopolymer represents a promising precursor for targeted cancer immunotherapy by activating the cytotoxic activity of natural killer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kalousková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Ondřej Skořepa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Denis Cmunt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Celeste Abreu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Kateřina Krejčová
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Jan Bláha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Irena Sieglová
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.S.); (V.K.); (M.F.)
| | - Vlastimil Král
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.S.); (V.K.); (M.F.)
| | - Milan Fábry
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (I.S.); (V.K.); (M.F.)
| | - Robert Pola
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského nám. 2, 16206 Prague, Czech Republic; (R.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Michal Pechar
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského nám. 2, 16206 Prague, Czech Republic; (R.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Ondřej Vaněk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030, 12840 Prague, Czech Republic; (B.K.); (O.S.); (D.C.); (C.A.); (K.K.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence:
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18
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Hagelstein I, Lutz MS, Schmidt M, Heitmann JS, Malenke E, Zhou Y, Clar KL, Kopp HG, Jung G, Salih HR, Märklin M, Hinterleitner C. Bispecific NKG2D-CD3 and NKG2D-CD16 Fusion Proteins as Novel Treatment Option in Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcomas. Front Immunol 2021; 12:653081. [PMID: 33936075 PMCID: PMC8079770 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.653081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) constitutes a rare group of heterogeneous malignancies. Effective treatment options for most subtypes of STS are still limited. As a result, especially in metastatic disease, prognosis is still dismal. The ligands for the activating immunoreceptor NKG2D (NKG2DL) are commonly expressed in STS, but generally absent in healthy tissues. This provides the rationale for utilization of NKG2DL as targets for immunotherapeutic approaches. We here report on the preclinical characterization of bispecific fusion proteins (BFP) consisting of the extracellular domain of the NKG2D receptor fused to Fab-fragments directed against CD3 (NKG2D-CD3) or CD16 (NKG2D-CD16) for treatment of STS. After characterization of NKG2DL expression patterns on various STS cell lines, we demonstrated that both NKG2D-CD16 and NKG2D-CD3 induce profound T and NK cell reactivity as revealed by analysis of activation, degranulation and secretion of IFNγ as well as granule associated proteins, resulting in potent target cell lysis. In addition, the stimulatory capacity of the constructs to induce T and NK cell activation was analyzed in heavily pretreated STS patients and found to be comparable to healthy donors. Our results emphasize the potential of NKG2D-CD3 and NKG2D-CD16 BFP to target STS even in an advanced disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Hagelstein
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martina S Lutz
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Moritz Schmidt
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Jonas S Heitmann
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elke Malenke
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Children's Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Yanjun Zhou
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kim L Clar
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Kopp
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases (RBCT) Robert Bosch Cancer Center, Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Gundram Jung
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department for Immunology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R Salih
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Märklin
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Clemens Hinterleitner
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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19
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Gurney M, O’Dwyer M. Realizing Innate Potential: CAR-NK Cell Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1568. [PMID: 33805422 PMCID: PMC8036691 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Next-generation cellular immunotherapies seek to improve the safety and efficacy of approved CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell products or apply their principles across a growing list of targets and diseases. Supported by promising early clinical experiences, CAR modified natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapies represent a complementary and potentially off-the-shelf, allogeneic solution. While acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents an intuitive disease in which to investigate CAR based immunotherapies, key biological differences to B-cell malignancies have complicated progress to date. As CAR-T cell trials treating AML are growing in number, several CAR-NK cell approaches are also in development. In this review we explore why CAR-NK cell therapies may be particularly suited to the treatment of AML. First, we examine the established role NK cells play in AML biology and the existing anti-leukemic activity of NK cell adoptive transfer. Next, we appraise potential AML target antigens and consider common and unique challenges posed relative to treating B-cell malignancies. We summarize the current landscape of CAR-NK development in AML, and potential targets to augment CAR-NK cell therapies pharmacologically and through genetic engineering. Finally, we consider the broader landscape of competing immunotherapeutic approaches to AML treatment. In doing so we evaluate the innate potential, status and remaining barriers for CAR-NK based AML immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Gurney
- Apoptosis Research Center, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Michael O’Dwyer
- Apoptosis Research Center, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
- ONK Therapeutics Ltd., H91 V6KV Galway, Ireland
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20
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Wu Z, Zhang H, Wu M, Peng G, He Y, Wan N, Zeng Y. Targeting the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis in acute myeloid leukemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111299. [PMID: 33508619 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor is a crucial activating receptor in the immune recognition and eradication of abnormal cells by natural killer (NK) cells, and T lymphocytes. NKG2D can transmit activation signals and activate the immune system by recognizing the NKG2D ligands (NKG2D-L) on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. Downregulation of NKG2D-L in AML can circumvent resistance to chemotherapy and immune recognition. Considering this effect, the exploration of targeting the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis is considered to have tremendous potential for the discovery of novel biomacromolecule antibodies and pharmacological modulators in AML. This review was to outline the impact of NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis on intrinsic immunosurveillance and the development of AML. Furthermore, the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis related modulators and progress in preclinical and clinical trials was also to be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhui Wu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Min Wu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Guorui Peng
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yanqiu He
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Na Wan
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Yingjian Zeng
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
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21
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Khaldoyanidi S, Nagorsen D, Stein A, Ossenkoppele G, Subklewe M. Immune Biology of Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Implications for Immunotherapy. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:419-432. [PMID: 33434043 PMCID: PMC8078464 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anthony Stein
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Gerrit Ossenkoppele
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marion Subklewe
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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22
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ADCC against MICA/B Is Mediated against Differentiated Oral and Pancreatic and Not Stem-Like/Poorly Differentiated Tumors by the NK Cells; Loss in Cancer Patients due to Down-Modulation of CD16 Receptor. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020239. [PMID: 33440654 PMCID: PMC7826810 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells are known to upregulate major histocompatibility complex-class I chain related proteins A and B (MICA/B) expression under stress conditions or due to radiation exposure. However, it is not clear whether there are specific stages of cellular maturation in which these ligands are upregulated or whether the natural killer (NK) cells differentially target these tumors in direct cytotoxicity or antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC). We used freshly isolated primary and osteoclast (OCs)-expanded NK cells to determine the degree of direct cytotoxicity or of ADCC using anti-MICA/B monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against oral stem-like/poorly-differentiated oral squamous cancer stem cells (OSCSCs) and Mia PaCa-2 (MP2) pancreatic tumors as well as their well-differentiated counterparts: namely, oral squamous carcinoma cells (OSCCs) and pancreatic PL12 tumors. By using phenotypic and functional analysis, we demonstrated that OSCSCs and MP2 tumors were primary targets of direct cytotoxicity by freshly isolated NK cells and not by ADCC mediated by anti-MICA/B mAbs, which was likely due to the lower surface expression of MICA/B. However, the inverse was seen when their MICA/B-expressing differentiated counterparts, OSCCs and PL12 tumors, were used in direct cytotoxicity and ADCC, in which there was lower direct cytotoxicity but higher ADCC mediated by the NK cells. Differentiation of the OSCSCs and MP2 tumors by NK cell-supernatants abolished the direct killing of these tumors by the NK cells while enhancing NK cell-mediated ADCC due to the increased expression of MICA/B on the surface of these tumors. We further report that both direct killing and ADCC against MICA/B expressing tumors were significantly diminished by cancer patients' NK cells. Surprisingly, OC-expanded NK cells, unlike primary interleukin-2 (IL-2) activated NK cells, were found to kill OSCCs and PL12 tumors, and under these conditions, we did not observe significant ADCC using anti-MICA/B mAbs, even though the tumors expressed a higher surface expression of MICA/B. In addition, differentiated tumor cells also expressed higher levels of surface epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and programmed death-ligand 1(PDL1) and were more susceptible to NK cell-mediated ADCC in the presence of anti-EGFR and anti-PDL1 mAbs compared to their stem-like/poorly differentiated counterparts. Overall, these results suggested the possibility of CD16 receptors mediating both direct cytotoxicity and ADCC, resulting in the competitive use of these receptors in either direct killing or ADCC, depending on the differentiation status of tumor cells and the stage of maturation and activation of NK cells.
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23
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Barb AW. Fc γ receptor compositional heterogeneity: Considerations for immunotherapy development. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100057. [PMID: 33172893 PMCID: PMC7948983 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.013168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The antibody-binding crystallizable fragment (Fc) γ receptors (FcγRs) are expressed by leukocytes and activate or suppress a cellular response once engaged with an antibody-coated target. Therapeutic mAbs that require FcγR binding for therapeutic efficacy are now frontline treatments for multiple diseases. However, substantially fewer development efforts are focused on the FcγRs, despite accounting for half of the antibody-receptor complex. The recent success of engineered cell-based immunotherapies now provides a mechanism to introduce modified FcγRs into the clinic. FcγRs are highly heterogeneous because of multiple functionally distinct alleles for many genes, the presence of membrane-tethered and soluble forms, and a high degree of post-translational modification, notably asparagine-linked glycans. One significant factor limiting FcγR improvement is the fundamental lack of knowledge regarding endogenous receptor forms present in the human body. This review describes the composition of FcγRs isolated from primary human leukocytes, summarizes recent efforts to engineer FcγRs, and concludes with a description of potential FcγR features to enrich for enhanced function. Further understanding FcγR biology could accelerate the development of new clinical therapies targeting immune-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam W Barb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.
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24
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Xu J, Niu T. Natural killer cell-based immunotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:167. [PMID: 33287858 PMCID: PMC7720594 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00996-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable progress has been achieved in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia over the past decades, relapse remains a major problem. Novel therapeutic options aimed at attaining minimal residual disease-negative complete remission are expected to reduce the incidence of relapse and prolong survival. Natural killer cell-based immunotherapy is put forward as an option to tackle the unmet clinical needs. There have been an increasing number of therapeutic dimensions ranging from adoptive NK cell transfer, chimeric antigen receptor-modified NK cells, antibodies, cytokines to immunomodulatory drugs. In this review, we will summarize different forms of NK cell-based immunotherapy for AML based on preclinical investigations and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ting Niu
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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25
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Woan KV, Miller JS. Harnessing Natural Killer Cell Antitumor Immunity: From the Bench to Bedside. Cancer Immunol Res 2020; 7:1742-1747. [PMID: 31676567 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-19-0404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical effector lymphocytes mediating tumor immune surveillance and clearance. They do so by direct tumor killing using cytolytic granules and death receptors, and by interfacing with and potentiating adaptive immune responses through the production of cytokines. From a therapeutic perspective, NK cells have been shown to exert graft-versus-leukemia activity in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are important in the clinical efficacy of antibodies. Advances in basic and translational NK cell biology have led to multiple potential strategies to augment their in vivo activity to improve antitumor responses. Despite their potent effects, NK cells have been shown to be safe for adoptive cell therapy in both the autologous and allogeneic settings, with promising, but so far limited, clinical efficacy. This review will provide an overview of strategies being pursued to improve NK cell activity and efficacy, focusing on cell source, NK cell activation, and in vivo persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karrune V Woan
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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26
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Epperly R, Gottschalk S, Velasquez MP. Harnessing T Cells to Target Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia: CARs, BiTEs, and Beyond. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 7:E14. [PMID: 32079207 PMCID: PMC7072334 DOI: 10.3390/children7020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Outcomes for pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain poor, highlighting the need for improved targeted therapies. Building on the success of CD19-directed immune therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), efforts are ongoing to develop similar strategies for AML. Identifying target antigens for AML is challenging because of the high expression overlap in hematopoietic cells and normal tissues. Despite this, CD123 and CD33 antigen targeted therapies, among others, have emerged as promising candidates. In this review we focus on AML-specific T cell engaging bispecific antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. We review antigens being explored for T cell-based immunotherapy in AML, describe the landscape of clinical trials upcoming for bispecific antibodies and CAR T cells, and highlight strategies to overcome additional challenges facing translation of T cell-based immunotherapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Epperly
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
| | - Mireya Paulina Velasquez
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 77030, USA;
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27
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Sanseviero E. NK Cell-Fc Receptors Advance Tumor Immunotherapy. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E1667. [PMID: 31614774 PMCID: PMC6832859 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8101667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of cancer patients. Among immunotherapeutic approaches, antibodies targeting immune checkpoint inhibitors Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are approved for treatment of metastatic melanoma and are in clinical trials for a variety of other cancers. The contribution of Natural Killer (NK) cells to the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors is becoming more evident. Enhancing both T and NK cell function in cancer could result in a robust and durable response. Along with the ability to directly kill tumor cells, NK cells can mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) given the expression of Fragment Crystallizable (Fc) receptors. Promising novel antibodies modified with improved Fc-receptor-mediated functions or Fc-engagers to kill target cells have been tested in pre-clinical models with considerable results. Combination therapies with immune-therapeutic antibodies with enhancers of NK-cell Fc-receptor-mediated function can be exploited to increase the efficacy of these antibodies. Herein, I discuss possible strategies to improve the success of immunotherapy by boosting NK cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Sanseviero
- Immunology, Microenvironment and Metastasis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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