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Chen H, Zuo H, Huang J, Liu J, Jiang L, Jiang C, Zhang S, Hu Q, Lai H, Yin B, Yang G, Mai G, Li B, Chi H. Unravelling infiltrating T-cell heterogeneity in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma: Integrative single-cell and spatial transcriptomic profiling. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18403. [PMID: 39031800 PMCID: PMC11190954 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18403] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) pathogenesis intricately involves immune system dynamics, particularly the role of T cells within the tumour microenvironment. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptome analysis and bulk transcriptome profiling, we systematically explored the contribution of infiltrating T cells to KIRC heterogeneity. Employing high-density weighted gene co-expression network analysis (hdWGCNA), module scoring and machine learning, we identified a distinct signature of infiltrating T cell-associated genes (ITSGs). Spatial transcriptomic data were analysed using robust cell type decomposition (RCTD) to uncover spatial interactions. Further analyses included enrichment assessments, immune infiltration evaluations and drug susceptibility predictions. Experimental validation involved PCR experiments, CCK-8 assays, plate cloning assays, wound-healing assays and Transwell assays. Six subpopulations of infiltrating and proliferating T cells were identified in KIRC, with notable dynamics observed in mid- to late-stage disease progression. Spatial analysis revealed significant correlations between T cells and epithelial cells across varying distances within the tumour microenvironment. The ITSG-based prognostic model demonstrated robust predictive capabilities, implicating these genes in immune modulation and metabolic pathways and offering prognostic insights into drug sensitivity for 12 KIRC treatment agents. Experimental validation underscored the functional relevance of PPIB in KIRC cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Our study comprehensively characterizes infiltrating T-cell heterogeneity in KIRC using single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptome data. The stable prognostic model based on ITSGs unveils infiltrating T cells' prognostic potential, shedding light on the immune microenvironment and offering avenues for personalized treatment and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqing Chen
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Haoyuan Zuo
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery)Deyang People's HospitalDeyangChina
| | - Jinbang Huang
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Department of General SurgeryDazhou Central HospitalDazhouChina
| | - Lai Jiang
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Chenglu Jiang
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Shengke Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Qingwen Hu
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Haotian Lai
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Bangchao Yin
- Department of PathologySixth People's Hospital of YibinYibinChina
| | - Guanhu Yang
- Department of Specialty MedicineOhio UniversityAthensOhioUSA
| | - Gang Mai
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery)Deyang People's HospitalDeyangChina
| | - Bo Li
- Department of General Surgery (Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery), The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Hao Chi
- School of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated HospitalSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
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Song J, Chen J, Chen Y, Wang Y, Zheng L, Yu H, Chen C. Colorectal cancer subtyping and prognostic model construction based on interleukin-related genes. Physiol Genomics 2024; 56:367-383. [PMID: 38073490 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00099.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Members of the interleukin (IL) family are closely linked to cancer development and progression. However, research on the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) related to IL is still lacking. This study investigated new CRC prognostic markers and offered new insights for CRC prognosis and treatment. CRC-related data and IL gene data were collected from public databases. Sample clustering was done with the NMF package to divide samples into different subtypes. Differential, enrichment, survival, and immune analyses were conducted on subtypes. A prognostic model was constructed using regression analysis. Drug sensitivity analysis was performed using GDSC database. Western blot analysis was performed to assess the effect of IL-7 on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Flow cytometry was used to examine the impact of IL-7 on CD8+ T cell apoptosis. Two CRC subtypes based on IL-associated genes were obtained. Cluster 1 had a higher survival rate than cluster 2, and they showed differences in some immune levels. The two clusters were mainly enriched in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, T helper 17 cell differentiation, and the IL-17 signaling pathway. An 11-gene signature was built, and risk score was an independent prognosticator for CRC. The low-risk group showed a higher sensitivity to nine common targeted anticancer drugs. Western blot and flow cytometry results demonstrated that IL-7 could phosphorylate STAT5 and promote survival of CD8+ T cells. In conclusion, this study divided CRC samples into two IL-associated subtypes and obtained an 11-gene signature. In addition, targeted drugs that may improve the prognosis of patients with CRC were identified. These findings are of paramount importance for patient prognosis and CRC treatment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We identified two clusters with significant survival differences in colorectal cancer (CRC) based on interleukin-related genes, constructed an 11-gene risk score model that can independently predict the prognosis of CRC, and explored some targeted drugs that may improve the prognosis of patients with CRC. The results of this study have important implications for the prognosis and treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintian Song
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianbin Chen
- Department of Oncology and Vascular Interventional Therapy, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yigui Chen
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Zheng
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Changjiang Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
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Rakké YS, Buschow SI, IJzermans JNM, Sprengers D. Engaging stimulatory immune checkpoint interactions in the tumour immune microenvironment of primary liver cancers - how to push the gas after having released the brake. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1357333. [PMID: 38440738 PMCID: PMC10910082 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1357333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are the first and second most common primary liver cancer (PLC). For decades, systemic therapies consisting of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) or chemotherapy have formed the cornerstone of treating advanced-stage HCC and CCA, respectively. More recently, immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) has shown anti-tumour reactivity in some patients. The combination regimen of anti-PD-L1 and anti-VEGF antibodies has been approved as new first-line treatment of advanced-stage HCC. Furthermore, gemcibatine plus cisplatin (GEMCIS) with an anti-PD-L1 antibody is awaiting global approval for the treatment of advanced-stage CCA. As effective anti-tumour reactivity using ICI is achieved in a minor subset of both HCC and CCA patients only, alternative immune strategies to sensitise the tumour microenvironment of PLC are waited for. Here we discuss immune checkpoint stimulation (ICS) as additional tool to enhance anti-tumour reactivity. Up-to-date information on the clinical application of ICS in onco-immunology is provided. This review provides a rationale of the application of next-generation ICS either alone or in combination regimen to potentially enhance anti-tumour reactivity in PLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick S. Rakké
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-Transplant Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sonja I. Buschow
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-Cancer Institute-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan N. M. IJzermans
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-Transplant Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dave Sprengers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-Cancer Institute-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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4
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Fromm G, de Silva S, Schreiber TH. Reconciling intrinsic properties of activating TNF receptors by native ligands versus synthetic agonists. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1236332. [PMID: 37795079 PMCID: PMC10546206 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1236332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular domain of tumor necrosis factor receptors (TNFR) generally require assembly into a homotrimeric quaternary structure as a prerequisite for initiation of signaling via the cytoplasmic domains. TNF receptor homotrimers are natively activated by similarly homo-trimerized TNF ligands, but can also be activated by synthetic agonists including engineered antibodies and Fc-ligand fusion proteins. A large body of literature from pre-clinical models supports the hypothesis that synthetic agonists targeting a diverse range of TNF receptors (including 4-1BB, CD40, OX40, GITR, DR5, TNFRSF25, HVEM, LTβR, CD27, and CD30) could amplify immune responses to provide clinical benefit in patients with infectious diseases or cancer. Unfortunately, however, the pre-clinical attributes of synthetic TNF receptor agonists have not translated well in human clinical studies, and have instead raised fundamental questions regarding the intrinsic biology of TNF receptors. Clinical observations of bell-shaped dose response curves have led some to hypothesize that TNF receptor overstimulation is possible and can lead to anergy and/or activation induced cell death of target cells. Safety issues including liver toxicity and cytokine release syndrome have also been observed in humans, raising questions as to whether those toxicities are driven by overstimulation of the targeted TNF receptor, a non-TNF receptor related attribute of the synthetic agonist, or both. Together, these clinical findings have limited the development of many TNF receptor agonists, and may have prevented generation of clinical data which reflects the full potential of TNF receptor agonism. A number of recent studies have provided structural insights into how different TNF receptor agonists bind and cluster TNF receptors, and these insights aid in deconvoluting the intrinsic biology of TNF receptors with the mechanistic underpinnings of synthetic TNF receptor agonist therapeutics.
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Vanamee ÉS, Faustman DL. The benefits of clustering in TNF receptor superfamily signaling. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1225704. [PMID: 37662920 PMCID: PMC10469783 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1225704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily is a structurally and functionally related group of cell surface receptors that play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including apoptosis, cell survival, and immune regulation. This review paper synthesizes key findings from recent studies, highlighting the importance of clustering in TNF receptor superfamily signaling. We discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms of signaling, the functional consequences of receptor clustering, and potential therapeutic implications of targeting surface structures of receptor complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva S. Vanamee
- Immunobiology Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Denise L. Faustman
- Immunobiology Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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6
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Davar D, Zappasodi R. Targeting GITR in cancer immunotherapy - there is no perfect knowledge. Oncotarget 2023; 14:614-621. [PMID: 37335294 PMCID: PMC10278658 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid-induced TNFR-related protein (GITR) belongs to the TNFR superfamily (TNFRSF) and stimulates both the acquired and innate immunity. GITR is broadly expressed on immune cells, particularly regulatory T cells (Tregs) and natural killer (NK) cells. Given its potential to promote T effector function and impede Treg immune suppression, GITR is an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy. Preclinically, GITR agonists have demonstrated potent anti-tumor efficacy singly and in combination with a variety of agents, including PD-1 blockade. Multiple GITR agonists have been advanced into the clinic, although the experience with these agents has been disappointing. Recent mechanistic insights into the roles of antibody structure, valency, and Fc functionality in mediating anti-tumor efficacy may explain some of the apparent inconsistency or discordance between preclinical data and observed clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diwakar Davar
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Roberta Zappasodi
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, NY 10065, USA
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, NY 10065, USA
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7
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Nagai H, Azuma M, Sato A, Shibui N, Ogawara S, Tsutsui Y, Suzuki A, Wakaizumi T, Ito A, Matsuyama S, Morita M, Hikosaka Kuniishi M, Ishii N, So T. Fundamental Characterization of Antibody Fusion-Single-Chain TNF Recombinant Proteins Directed against Costimulatory TNF Receptors Expressed by T-Lymphocytes. Cells 2023; 12:1596. [PMID: 37371066 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121596] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The costimulatory signal regulated by the members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily expressed by T cells plays essential roles for T cell responses and has emerged as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. However, it is unclear how the difference in TNFR costimulation contributes to T cell responses. In this study, to clarify the functional significance of four different TNFRs, OX40, 4-1BB, CD27 and GITR, we prepared corresponding single-chain TNF ligand proteins (scTNFLs) connected to IgG Fc domain with beneficial characteristics, i.e., Fc-scOX40L, Fc-sc4-1BBL, Fc-scCD27L (CD70) and Fc-scGITRL. Without intentional cross-linking, these soluble Fc-scTNFL proteins bound to corresponding TNFRs induced NF-kB signaling and promoted proliferative and cytokine responses in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells with different dose-dependencies in vitro. Mice injected with one of the Fc-scTNFL proteins displayed significantly augmented delayed-type hypersensitivity responses, showing in vivo activity. The results demonstrate that each individual Fc-scTNFL protein provides a critical costimulatory signal and exhibits quantitatively distinct activity toward T cells. Our findings provide important insights into the TNFR costimulation that would be valuable for investigators conducting basic research in cancer immunology and also have implications for T cell-mediated immune regulation by designer TNFL proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hodaka Nagai
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Mitsuki Azuma
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Ayaka Sato
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Nagito Shibui
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Sayaka Ogawara
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Yuta Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Ayano Suzuki
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Tomomi Wakaizumi
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Aya Ito
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Shimpei Matsuyama
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Masashi Morita
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Mari Hikosaka Kuniishi
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Naoto Ishii
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takanori So
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
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Frankish J, Mukherjee D, Romano E, Billian-Frey K, Schröder M, Heinonen K, Merz C, Redondo Müller M, Gieffers C, Hill O, Thiemann M, Honeychurch J, Illidge T, Sykora J. The CD40 agonist HERA-CD40L results in enhanced activation of antigen presenting cells, promoting an anti-tumor effect alone and in combination with radiotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1160116. [PMID: 37304285 PMCID: PMC10251205 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1160116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The ability to modulate and enhance the anti-tumor immune responses is critical in developing novel therapies in cancer. The Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Receptor Super Family (TNFRSF) are potentially excellent targets for modulation which result in specific anti-tumor immune responses. CD40 is a member of the TNFRSF and several clinical therapies are under development. CD40 signaling plays a pivotal role in regulating the immune system from B cell responses to myeloid cell driven activation of T cells. The CD40 signaling axis is well characterized and here we compare next generation HERA-Ligands to conventional monoclonal antibody based immune modulation for the treatment of cancer. Methods & results HERA-CD40L is a novel molecule that targets CD40 mediated signal transduction and demonstrates a clear mode of action in generating an activated receptor complex via recruitment of TRAFs, cIAP1, and HOIP, leading to TRAF2 phosphorylation and ultimately resulting in the enhanced activation of key inflammatory/survival pathway and transcription factors such asNFkB, AKT, p38, ERK1/2, JNK, and STAT1 in dendritic cells. Furthermore, HERA-CD40L demonstrated a strong modulation of the tumor microenvironment (TME) via the increase in intratumoral CD8+ T cells and the functional switch from pro-tumor macrophages (TAMs) to anti-tumor macrophages that together results in a significant reduction of tumor growth in a CT26 mouse model. Furthermore, radiotherapy which may have an immunosuppressive modulation of the TME, was shown to have an immunostimulatory effect in combination with HERA-CD40L. Radiotherapy in combination with HERA-CD40L treatment resulted in an increase in detected intratumoral CD4+/8+ T cells compared to RT alone and, additionally, the repolarization of TAMs was also observed, resulting in an inhibition of tumor growth in a TRAMP-C1 mouse model. Discussion Taken together, HERA-CD40L resulted in activating signal transduction mechanisms in dendritic cells, resulting in an increase in intratumoral T cells and manipulation of the TME to be pro-inflammatory, repolarizing M2 macrophages to M1, enhancing tumor control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Debayan Mukherjee
- Targeted Therapy Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Erminia Romano
- Targeted Therapy Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jamie Honeychurch
- Targeted Therapy Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Illidge
- Targeted Therapy Group, Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Pan S, Zhao W, Li Y, Ying Z, Luo Y, Wang Q, Li X, Lu W, Dong X, Wu Y, Wu X. Prediction of risk and overall survival of pancreatic cancer from blood soluble immune checkpoint-related proteins. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1189161. [PMID: 37256126 PMCID: PMC10225568 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1189161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immune checkpoint inhibition holds promise as a novel treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The clinical significance of soluble immune checkpoint (ICK) related proteins have not yet fully explored in PDAC. Methods We comprehensively profiled 14 soluble ICK-related proteins in plasma in 70 PDAC patients and 70 matched healthy controls. Epidemiological data of all subjects were obtained through structured interviews, and patients' clinical data were retrieved from electronical health records. We evaluated the associations between the biomarkers with the risk of PDAC using unconditional multivariate logistic regression. Consensus clustering (k-means algorithm) with significant biomarkers was performed to identify immune subtypes in PDAC patients. Prediction models for overall survival (OS) in PDAC patients were developed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. Harrell's concordance index (C-index), time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve were utilized to evaluate performance of prediction models. Gene expressions of the identified ICK-related proteins in tumors from TCGA were analyzed to provide insight into underlying mechanisms. Results Soluble BTLA, CD28, CD137, GITR and LAG-3 were significantly upregulated in PDAC patients (all q < 0.05), and elevation of each of them was correlated with PDAC increased risk (all p < 0.05). PDAC patients were classified into soluble immune-high and soluble immune-low subtypes, using these 5 biomarkers. Patients in soluble immune-high subtype had significantly poorer OS than those in soluble immune-low subtype (log-rank p = 9.7E-03). The model with clinical variables and soluble immune subtypes had excellent predictive power (C-index = 0.809) for the OS of PDAC patients. Furthermore, the immune subtypes identified with corresponding genes' expression in PDAC tumor samples in TCGA showed an opposite correlation with OS to that of immune subtypes based on blood soluble ICK-related proteins (log-rank p =0.02). The immune-high subtype tumors displayed higher cytolytic activity (CYT) score than immune-low subtype tumors (p < 2E-16). Conclusion Five soluble ICK-related proteins were identified to be significantly associated with the risk and prognosis of PDAC. Patients who were classified as soluble immune-low subtype based on these biomarkers had better overall survival than those of the soluble immune-high subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Pan
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenting Zhao
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizhan Li
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhijun Ying
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yihong Luo
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinchuan Wang
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiawei Li
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenjie Lu
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Dong
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yulian Wu
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xifeng Wu
- Center for Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Big Data, The Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Key Laboratory of Intelligent Preventive Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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10
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Dadas O, Ertay A, Cragg MS. Delivering co-stimulatory tumor necrosis factor receptor agonism for cancer immunotherapy: past, current and future perspectives. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1147467. [PMID: 37180119 PMCID: PMC10167284 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) and their receptors (TNFRSF) are important regulators of the immune system, mediating proliferation, survival, differentiation, and function of immune cells. As a result, their targeting for immunotherapy is attractive, although to date, under-exploited. In this review we discuss the importance of co-stimulatory members of the TNFRSF in optimal immune response generation, the rationale behind targeting these receptors for immunotherapy, the success of targeting them in pre-clinical studies and the challenges in translating this success into the clinic. The efficacy and limitations of the currently available agents are discussed alongside the development of next generation immunostimulatory agents designed to overcome current issues, and capitalize on this receptor class to deliver potent, durable and safe drugs for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman Dadas
- Antibody and Vaccine Group, School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ayse Ertay
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Mark S. Cragg
- Antibody and Vaccine Group, School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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11
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Müller D. Targeting Co-Stimulatory Receptors of the TNF Superfamily for Cancer Immunotherapy. BioDrugs 2023; 37:21-33. [PMID: 36571696 PMCID: PMC9836981 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-022-00573-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The clinical approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors is an important advancement in the field of cancer immunotherapy. However, the percentage of beneficiaries is still limited and it is becoming clear that combination therapies are required to further enhance the treatment efficacy. The potential of strategies targeting the immunoregulatory network by "hitting the gas pedal" as opposed to "blocking the brakes" is being recognized and intensively investigated. Hence, next to immune checkpoint inhibitors, agonists of co-stimulatory receptors of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily (TNF-SF) are emerging as promising options to expand the immunomodulatory toolbox. In this review the development of different categories of recombinant antibody and ligand-based agonists of 4-1BB, OX40, and GITR is summarized and discussed in the context of the challenges presented by the structural and mechanistical features of the TNFR-SF. An overview of current formats, trends, and clinical studies is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafne Müller
- grid.5719.a0000 0004 1936 9713Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
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12
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Rakké YS, Campos Carrascosa L, van Beek AA, de Ruiter V, van Gemerden RS, Doukas M, Doornebosch PG, Vermaas M, ter Borg S, van der Harst E, Coene PPL, Kliffen M, Grünhagen DJ, Verhoef C, IJzermans JN, Kwekkeboom J, Sprengers D. GITR Ligation Improves Anti-PD1-Mediated Restoration of Human MMR-Proficient Colorectal Carcinoma Tumor-Derived T Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 15:77-97. [PMID: 36155259 PMCID: PMC9672455 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In contrast to mismatch repair deficient colorectal carcinoma (CRC), MMR proficient (pMMR) CRC does not respond to immune checkpoint blockade. We studied immune checkpoint stimulation via glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor-related protein (GITR) on ex vivo functionality of human tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) isolated from pMMR primary CRC and liver metastases (CRLM). METHODS Using lymphocytes from resected tumor, adjacent tissues, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of 132 pMMR primary CRC or CRLM patients, we determined GITR expression and the in vitro T-cell agonistic activity of recombinant GITR ligation. RESULTS Here, we show that GITR was overexpressed on TIL when compared with other stimulatory immune checkpoints (4-1BB, OX40). Its expression was enhanced in TIL compared with PBMC and adjacent tissues. Among CD4+ TIL, GITR expression was primarily expressed by CD45RA- FoxP3hi activated regulatory T cells. Within CD8+ TIL, GITR was predominantly expressed on functionally exhausted and putative tumor-reactive CD103+ CD39+ TIL. Strikingly, recombinant GITRL reinvigorated ex vivo TIL responses by significantly enhancing CD4+ and CD8+ TIL numbers. Dual treatment with GITRL and nivolumab (anti-PD1) enhanced CD8+ TIL expansion compared with GITRL monotherapy. Moreover, GITRL/anti-PD1 dual therapy further improved anti-PD1-mediated reinvigoration of interferon gamma secretion by exhausted CD8 TIL from primary CRC. CONCLUSIONS GITR is overexpressed on CD4+ and CD8+ TIL from pMMR CRC and CRLM. Agonistic targeting of GITR enhances ex vivo human TIL functionality and may therefore be a promising approach for novel monotherapy or combined immunotherapies in primary pMRR CRC and CRLM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick S. Rakké
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lucia Campos Carrascosa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adriaan A. van Beek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Valeska de Ruiter
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rachelle S. van Gemerden
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michail Doukas
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Maarten Vermaas
- Department of Surgery, IJsselland Hospital, Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Mike Kliffen
- Department of Pathology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dirk J. Grünhagen
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan N.M. IJzermans
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap Kwekkeboom
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dave Sprengers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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13
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Oostindie SC, Lazar GA, Schuurman J, Parren PWHI. Avidity in antibody effector functions and biotherapeutic drug design. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:715-735. [PMID: 35790857 PMCID: PMC9255845 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00501-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies are the cardinal effector molecules of the immune system and are being leveraged with enormous success as biotherapeutic drugs. A key part of the adaptive immune response is the production of an epitope-diverse, polyclonal antibody mixture that is capable of neutralizing invading pathogens or disease-causing molecules through binding interference and by mediating humoral and cellular effector functions. Avidity - the accumulated binding strength derived from the affinities of multiple individual non-covalent interactions - is fundamental to virtually all aspects of antibody biology, including antibody-antigen binding, clonal selection and effector functions. The manipulation of antibody avidity has since emerged as an important design principle for enhancing or engineering novel properties in antibody biotherapeutics. In this Review, we describe the multiple levels of avidity interactions that trigger the overall efficacy and control of functional responses in both natural antibody biology and their therapeutic applications. Within this framework, we comprehensively review therapeutic antibody mechanisms of action, with particular emphasis on engineered optimizations and platforms. Overall, we describe how affinity and avidity tuning of engineered antibody formats are enabling a new wave of differentiated antibody drugs with tailored properties and novel functions, promising improved treatment options for a wide variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone C Oostindie
- Genmab, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Greg A Lazar
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Paul W H I Parren
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands. .,Sparring Bioconsult, Odijk, Netherlands. .,Lava Therapeutics, Utrecht, Netherlands.
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14
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Liu H, Wu W, Sun G, Chia T, Cao L, Liu X, Guan J, Fu F, Yao Y, Wu Z, Zhou S, Wang J, Lu J, Kuang Z, Wu M, He L, Shao Z, Wu D, Chen B, Xu W, Wang Z, He K. Optimal target saturation of ligand-blocking anti-GITR antibody IBI37G5 dictates FcγR-independent GITR agonism and antitumor activity. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100660. [PMID: 35732156 PMCID: PMC9245059 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100660] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor (GITR) is a co-stimulatory receptor and an important target for cancer immunotherapy. We herein present a potent FcγR-independent GITR agonist IBI37G5 that can effectively activate effector T cells and synergize with anti-programmed death 1 (PD1) antibody to eradicate established tumors. IBI37G5 depends on both antibody bivalency and GITR homo-dimerization for efficient receptor cross-linking. Functional analyses reveal bell-shaped dose responses due to the unique 2:2 antibody-receptor stoichiometry required for GITR activation. Antibody self-competition is observed after concentration exceeded that of 100% receptor occupancy (RO), which leads to antibody monovalent binding and loss of activity. Retrospective pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics analysis demonstrates that the maximal efficacy is achieved at medium doses with drug exposure near saturating GITR occupancy during the dosing cycle. Finally, we propose an alternative dose-finding strategy that does not rely on the traditional maximal tolerated dose (MTD)-based paradigm but instead on utilizing the RO-function relations as biomarker to guide the clinical translation of GITR and similar co-stimulatory agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huisi Liu
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Gangyu Sun
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tiongsun Chia
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaodan Liu
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Guan
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Fenggen Fu
- Department of Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Ying Yao
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Zhihai Wu
- Department of Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Shuaixiang Zhou
- Department of Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Jia Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Kuang
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Luan He
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Shao
- Department of Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Dongdong Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Bingliang Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Preclinical Studies, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| | - Wenqing Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhizhi Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Kaijie He
- Department of Immunology, Innovent Guoqing Academy, Innovent Biologics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China.
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15
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GITR/GITRL reverse signalling modulates the proliferation of hepatic progenitor cells by recruiting ANXA2 to phosphorylate ERK1/2 and Akt. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:297. [PMID: 35379781 PMCID: PMC8979965 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04759-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
AbstractHepatic stem/progenitor cells are the major cell compartment for tissue repair when hepatocyte proliferation is compromised in chronic liver diseases, but the expansion of these cells increases the risk of carcinogenesis. Therefore, it is essential to explore the pathways restricting their expansion and abnormal transformation. The ligand of glucocorticoid-induced tumour necrosis factor receptor (GITRL) showed the most highly increased expression in hepatic progenitor cells treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. If overexpressed by hepatic progenitor cells, GITRL stimulated cell proliferation by activating the epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway and enhancing ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation via GITRL binding to ANXA2. However, GITR, the specific GITRL receptor, suppressed the epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway of GITRL-expressing cells and decreased their growth by dissociating ANXA2 from GITRL and reducing downstream ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation. This study identifies GITR/GITRL reverse signalling as a cross-interaction pathway between immune cells and hepatic stem/progenitor cells that restricts the expansion of hepatic stem/progenitor cells and reduces the possibility of carcinogenesis.
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16
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Pattarabanjird T, Li C, McNamara C. B Cells in Atherosclerosis: Mechanisms and Potential Clinical Applications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 6:546-563. [PMID: 34222726 PMCID: PMC8246059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
B cells regulate atherosclerotic plaque formation through production of antibodies and cytokines, and effects are subset specific (B1 and B2). Putative human atheroprotective B1 cells function similarly to murine B1 in their spontaneous IgM antibody production. However, marker strategies in identifying human and murine B1 are different. IgM antibody to oxidation specific epitopes produced by B1 cells associate with human coronary artery disease. Neoantigen immunization may be a promising strategy for atherosclerosis vaccine development, but further study to determine relevant antigens still need to be done. B-cell–targeted therapies, used in treating autoimmune diseases as well as lymphoid cancers, might have potential applications in treating cardiovascular diseases. Short- and long-term cardiovascular effects of these agents need to be assessed.
Because atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, understanding inflammatory processes underpinning its pathology is critical. B cells have been implicated as a key immune cell type in regulating atherosclerosis. B-cell effects, mediated by antibodies and cytokines, are subset specific. In this review, we focus on elaborating mechanisms underlying subtype-specific roles of B cells in atherosclerosis and discuss available human data implicating B cells in atherosclerosis. We further discuss potential B cell–linked therapeutic approaches, including immunization and B cell–targeted biologics. Given recent evidence strongly supporting a role for B cells in human atherosclerosis and the expansion of immunomodulatory agents that affect B-cell biology in clinical use and clinical trials for other disorders, it is important that the cardiovascular field be cognizant of potential beneficial or untoward effects of modulating B-cell activity on atherosclerosis.
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Key Words
- APRIL, A proliferation−inducing ligand
- ApoE, apolipoprotein E
- B-cell
- BAFF, B-cell–activating factor
- BAFFR, B-cell–activating factor receptor
- BCMA, B-cell maturation antigen
- BCR, B-cell receptor
- Breg, regulatory B cell
- CAD, coronary artery disease
- CTLA4, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated protein 4
- CVD, cardiovascular disease
- CXCR4, C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4
- GC, germinal center
- GITR, glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor–related protein
- GITRL, glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor–related protein ligand
- GM-CSF, granulocyte-macrophage colony–stimulating factor
- ICI, immune checkpoint inhibitor
- IFN, interferon
- IL, interleukin
- IVUS, intravascular ultrasound
- LDL, low-density lipoprotein
- LDLR, low-density lipoprotein receptor
- MDA-LDL, malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein
- MI, myocardial infarction
- OSE, oxidation-specific epitope
- OxLDL, oxidized low-density lipoprotein
- PC, phosphorylcholine
- PD-1, programmed cell death protein 1
- PD-L2, programmed death ligand 2
- PDL1, programmed death ligand 1
- RA, rheumatoid arthritis
- SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus
- TACI, transmembrane activator and CAML interactor
- TNF, tumor necrosis factor
- Treg, regulatory T cell
- atherosclerosis
- immunoglobulins
- mAb, monoclonal antibody
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanyaporn Pattarabanjird
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Cynthia Li
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Coleen McNamara
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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17
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Kucka K, Wajant H. Receptor Oligomerization and Its Relevance for Signaling by Receptors of the Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:615141. [PMID: 33644033 PMCID: PMC7905041 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.615141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
With the exception of a few signaling incompetent decoy receptors, the receptors of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) are signaling competent and engage in signaling pathways resulting in inflammation, proliferation, differentiation, and cell migration and also in cell death induction. TNFRSF receptors (TNFRs) become activated by ligands of the TNF superfamily (TNFSF). TNFSF ligands (TNFLs) occur as trimeric type II transmembrane proteins but often also as soluble ligand trimers released from the membrane-bound form by proteolysis. The signaling competent TNFRs are efficiently activated by the membrane-bound TNFLs. The latter recruit three TNFR molecules, but there is growing evidence that this is not sufficient to trigger all aspects of TNFR signaling; rather, the formed trimeric TNFL–TNFR complexes have to cluster secondarily in the cell-to-cell contact zone for full TNFR activation. With respect to their response to soluble ligand trimers, the signaling competent TNFRs can be subdivided into two groups. TNFRs of one group, designated as category I TNFRs, are robustly activated by soluble ligand trimers. The receptors of a second group (category II TNFRs), however, failed to become properly activated by soluble ligand trimers despite high affinity binding. The limited responsiveness of category II TNFRs to soluble TNFLs can be overcome by physical linkage of two or more soluble ligand trimers or, alternatively, by anchoring the soluble ligand molecules to the cell surface or extracellular matrix. This suggests that category II TNFRs have a limited ability to promote clustering of trimeric TNFL–TNFR complexes outside the context of cell–cell contacts. In this review, we will focus on three aspects on the relevance of receptor oligomerization for TNFR signaling: (i) the structural factors which promote clustering of free and liganded TNFRs, (ii) the signaling pathway specificity of the receptor oligomerization requirement, and (iii) the consequences for the design and development of TNFR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin Kucka
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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18
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Stringhini M, Mock J, Fontana V, Murer P, Neri D. Antibody-mediated delivery of LIGHT to the tumor boosts natural killer cells and delays tumor progression. MAbs 2021; 13:1868066. [PMID: 33404287 PMCID: PMC7808322 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2020.1868066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
LIGHT is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, which has been claimed to mediate anti-tumor activity on the basis of cancer cures observed in immunocompetent mice bearing transgenic LIGHT-expressing tumors. The preclinical development of a LIGHT-based therapeutic has been hindered by the lack of functional stability exhibited by this protein. Here, we describe the cloning, expression, and characterization of five antibody-LIGHT fusion proteins, directed against the alternatively spliced extra domain A of fibronectin, a conserved tumor-associated antigen. Among the five tested formats, only the sequential fusion of the F8 antibody in single-chain diabody format, followed by the LIGHT homotrimer expressed as a single polypeptide, yielded a protein (termed "F8-LIGHT") that was not prone to aggregation. A quantitative biodistribution analysis in tumor-bearing mice, using radio-iodinated protein preparations, confirmed that F8-LIGHT was able to preferentially accumulate at the tumor site, with a tumor-to-blood ratio of ca. five to one 24 hours after intravenous administration. Tumor therapy experiments, performed in two murine tumor models (CT26 and WEHI-164), featuring different levels of lymphocyte infiltration into the neoplastic mass, revealed that F8-LIGHT could significantly reduce tumor-cell growth and was more potent than a similar fusion protein (KSF-LIGHT), directed against hen egg lysozyme and serving as negative control of irrelevant specificity in the mouse. At a mechanistic level, the activity of F8-LIGHT was mainly due to an intratumoral expansion of natural killer cells, whereas there was no evidence of expansion of CD8 + T cells, neither in the tumor, nor in draining lymph nodes. Abbreviations: CTLA-4: Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes-associated protein 4; EGFR: Epidermal growth factor receptor; HVEM: Herpesvirus entry mediator; IFNγ: Interferon-gamma; LIGHT: Lymphotoxin, exhibits inducible expression and competes with HSV glycoprotein D for binding to herpesvirus entry mediator, a receptor expressed on T lymphocytes; LTβR: Lymphotoxin beta receptor; NF-κB: Nuclear factor "kappa-light-chain-enhancer" of activated B cells; NK: Natural killer cells; PD-1: Programmed cell death protein 1; PD-L1: Programmed death-ligand 1; TNF: Tumor necrosis factor.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/genetics
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/immunology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/metabolism
- CHO Cells
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cricetinae
- Cricetulus
- Disease Progression
- Humans
- Killer Cells, Natural/drug effects
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Lymphocyte Activation/drug effects
- Lymphocyte Activation/immunology
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/immunology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/pharmacokinetics
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/pharmacology
- Tissue Distribution
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Tumor Burden/immunology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Ligand Superfamily Member 14/genetics
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Ligand Superfamily Member 14/immunology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Ligand Superfamily Member 14/metabolism
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Stringhini
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jacqueline Mock
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Fontana
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Patrizia Murer
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Dario Neri
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Zürich, Switzerland
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19
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Hu F, Huang D, Luo Y, Zhou P, Lv C, Wang K, Weng Q, Liu X, Guan Y, Geng Y, Du J, Chen J, Wang J, Wu H. Hematopoietic lineage-converted T cells carrying tumor-associated antigen-recognizing TCRs effectively kill tumor cells. J Immunother Cancer 2020; 8:jitc-2019-000498. [PMID: 32669292 PMCID: PMC7368548 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2019-000498] [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] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated antigen (TAA) T-cell receptor (TCR) gene-engineered T cells exhibit great potential in antitumor immunotherapy. Considering the high costs and low availability of patient-derived peripheral blood T cells, substantial efforts have been made to explore alternatives to natural T cells. We previously reported that enforced expression of Hoxb5 converted B cells into induced T (iT) cells in vivo Here, we successfully regenerated naive OT1 (major histocompatibility complex I restricted ovalbumin antigen) iT cells (OT1-iT) in vivo by expressing Hoxb5 in pro-pre-B cells in the OT1 transgenic mouse. The OT1-iT cells can be activated and expanded in vitro in the presence of tumor cells. Particularly, these regenerated OT1-iT cells effectively eradicated tumor cells expressing the TAA (ovalbumin) both in vitro and in vivo This study provides insights into the translational applications of blood lineage-transdifferentiated T cells in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangxiao Hu
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dehao Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxuan Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Peiqing Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cui Lv
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kaitao Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qitong Weng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofei Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuxian Guan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Geng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Du
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiekai Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinyong Wang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China .,CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongling Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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20
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Shi T, Song X, Wang Y, Liu F, Wei J. Combining Oncolytic Viruses With Cancer Immunotherapy: Establishing a New Generation of Cancer Treatment. Front Immunol 2020; 11:683. [PMID: 32411132 PMCID: PMC7198760 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent successes of tumor immunotherapy approaches, such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy, have revolutionized cancer treatment, improving efficacy and extending treatment to a larger proportion of cancer patients. However, due to high heterogeneity of cancer, poor tumor cell targeting, and the immunosuppressive status of the tumor microenvironment (TME), combinatorial agents are required to obtain more effective and consistent therapeutic responses in a wide range of cancers. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are able to selectively replicate in and destroy tumor cells and subsequently induce systematic anti-tumor immune responses. Thus, they are ideal for combining with cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of OVs, as well as the latest preclinical and clinical progress of combining OVs with cancer immunotherapies, including ICB, CAR-T therapy, bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs), and cancer vaccines. Moreover, we consider future directions for applying OVs to personalized cancer immunotherapies, which could potentially launch a new generation of cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Shi
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueru Song
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fangcen Liu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia Wei
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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21
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Richards DM, Sefrin JP, Gieffers C, Hill O, Merz C. Concepts for agonistic targeting of CD40 in immuno-oncology. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 16:377-387. [PMID: 31403344 PMCID: PMC7062441 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1653744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
TNF Receptor Superfamily (TNF-R-SF) signaling is a structurally well-defined event that requires proper receptor clustering and trimerization. While the TNF-SF ligands naturally exist as trivalent functional units, the receptors are usually separated on the cell surface. Critically, receptor assembly into functional trimeric signaling complexes occurs through binding of the natural ligand unit. TNF-R-SF members, including CD40, have been key immunotherapeutic targets for over 20 years. CD40, expressed by antigen-presenting cells, endothelial cells, and many tumors, plays a fundamental role in connecting innate and adaptive immunity. The multiple investigated strategies to induce CD40 signaling can be broadly grouped into antibody-based or CD40L-based approaches. Currently, seven different antibodies and one CD40L-based hexavalent fusion protein are in active clinical trials. In this review, we describe the biology and structural properties of CD40, requirements for agonistic signal transduction through CD40 and summarize current attempts to exploit the CD40 signaling pathway for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Oliver Hill
- Research and Development, Apogenix AG, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Merz
- Research and Development, Apogenix AG, Heidelberg, Germany
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