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Sheva K, Roy Chowdhury S, Kravchenko-Balasha N, Meirovitz A. Molecular Changes in Breast Cancer Induced by Radiation Therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 120:465-481. [PMID: 38508467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2024.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer treatments are based on prognostic clinicopathologic features that form the basis for therapeutic guidelines. Although the utilization of these guidelines has decreased breast cancer-associated mortality rates over the past three decades, they are not adequate for individualized therapy. Radiation therapy (RT) is the backbone of breast cancer treatment. Although a highly successful therapeutic modality clinically, from a biological perspective, preclinical studies have shown RT to have the potential to alter tumor cell phenotype, immunogenicity, and the surrounding microenvironment, potentially changing the behavior of cancer cells and resulting in a significant variation in RT response. This review presents the recent advances in revealing the complex molecular changes induced by RT in the treatment of breast cancer and highlights the complexities of translating this information into clinically relevant tools for improved prognostic insights and the revelation of novel approaches for optimizing RT. METHODS AND MATERIALS Current literature was reviewed with a focus on recent advances made in the elucidation of tumor-associated radiation-induced molecular changes across molecular, genetic, and proteomic bases. This review was structured with the aim of providing an up-to-date overview over the very broad and complex subject matter of radiation-induced molecular changes and radioresistance, familiarizing the reader with the broader issue at hand. RESULTS The subject of radiation-induced molecular changes in breast cancer has been broached from various physiological focal points including that of the immune system, immunogenicity and the abscopal effect, tumor hypoxia, breast cancer classification and subtyping, molecular heterogeneity, and molecular plasticity. It is becoming increasingly apparent that breast cancer clinical subtyping alone does not adequately account for variation in RT response or radioresistance. Multiple components of the tumor microenvironment and immune system, delivered RT dose and fractionation schedules, radiation-induced bystander effects, and intrinsic tumor physiology and heterogeneity all contribute to the resultant RT outcome. CONCLUSIONS Despite recent advances and improvements in anticancer therapies, tumor resistance remains a significant challenge. As new analytical techniques and technologies continue to provide crucial insight into the complex molecular mechanisms of breast cancer and its treatment responses, it is becoming more evident that personalized anticancer treatment regimens may be vital in overcoming radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Sheva
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
| | - Sangita Roy Chowdhury
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nataly Kravchenko-Balasha
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Amichay Meirovitz
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
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Wang X, Zhang H, XinZhang, Liu Y. Abscopal effect: from a rare phenomenon to a new frontier in cancer therapy. Biomark Res 2024; 12:98. [PMID: 39228005 PMCID: PMC11373306 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00628-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) controls local lesions, meantime it has the capability to induce systemic response to inhibit distant, metastatic, non-radiated tumors, which is referred to as the "abscopal effect". It is widely recognized that radiotherapy can stimulate systemic immune response. This provides a compelling theoretical basis for the combination of immune therapy combined with radiotherapy(iRT). Indeed, this phenomenon has also been observed in clinical treatment, bringing significant clinical benefits to patients, and a series of basic studies are underway to amplify this effect. However, the molecular mechanisms of immune response induced by RT, determination of the optimal treatment regimen for iRT, and how to amplify the abscopal effect. In order to amplify and utilize this effect in clinical management, these key issues require to be well addressed; In this review, we comprehensively summarize the growing consensus and emphasize the emerging limitations of enhancing the abscopal effect with radiotherapy or immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the prospects and barriers to the current clinical translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Haoyu Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - XinZhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Romero Fernandez J, Cordoba Largo S, Benlloch Rodriguez R, Gil Haro B. The Effects of Gynecological Tumor Irradiation on the Immune System. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2804. [PMID: 39199577 PMCID: PMC11352652 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Radiobiology has evolved from a mechanistic model based on DNA damage and response factors into a more complex model that includes effects on the immune system and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Irradiation has an immunomodulatory effect that can manifest as increased anti-tumor immunity or immunosuppression. Irradiation promotes an inflammatory microenvironment through the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and endothelial damage, which recruit immune system cells to the irradiated area. Radiation-induced immunogenic cell death (ICD), characterized by the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and tumor antigens, triggers an anti-tumor immune response of both innate and adaptive immunity. Anti-tumor immunity can manifest at a distance from the irradiated area, a phenomenon known as the abscopal effect (AE), which involves dendritic cells and CD8+ T cells. Irradiation also produces an immunosuppressive effect mediated by tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs), which counterbalances the immunostimulatory effect. In this work, we review the mechanisms involved in the radiation-induced immune response, which support the combined treatment of RT and immunotherapy, focusing, where possible, on gynecologic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Romero Fernandez
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, C. Joaquín Rodrigo 1, 28222 Majadahonda, Spain; (S.C.L.); (R.B.R.); (B.G.H.)
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Matoba T, Minohara K, Kawakita D, Sawabe M, Takano G, Oguri K, Murashima A, Iwaki S, Tsuge H, Imaizumi S, Hojo W, Kondo A, Tsukamoto K, Iwasaki S. Impact of salvage chemotherapy after immune checkpoint inhibitor for recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancer. Head Neck 2024; 46:1855-1864. [PMID: 38229255 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27643] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear witch regimen is optimal as salvage chemotherapy (SCT) after immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) monotherapy for recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancer (RM-HNC). METHODS This study enrolled 109 patients. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival 2 (PFS2) were compared between patients stratified by SCT regimen. RESULTS Of the 109 patients, 55 underwent SCT after the failure of ICI monotherapy. The OS of these 55 patients was longer than that of patients who did not undergo SCT. The OS and PFS2 were similar between patients treated with paclitaxel (PTX) and cetuximab (Cmab) combination and those treated with PTX monotherapy. The occurrence of irAEs did not impact PFS2 nor OS. CONCLUSIONS SCT can improve the survival outcomes of patients with RM-HNC. In addition to PTX and Cmab, PTX monotherapy is also considered an effective SCT regimen. SCT is effective regardless of the presence or absence of irAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuma Matoba
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Minohara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kawakita
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Michi Sawabe
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Toyota Kosei Hospital, Toyota, Japan
| | - Gaku Takano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Nagoya City University West Medical Center, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Keisuke Oguri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, Anjo, Japan
| | - Akihiro Murashima
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sho Iwaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tsuge
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sae Imaizumi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The Cancer Institute Hospital of the Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wataru Hojo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, Anjo, Japan
| | - Ayano Kondo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Koji Tsukamoto
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shinichi Iwasaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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Visa MA, Abazeed ME, Avella Patino D. Integrative Approaches in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Management: The Role of Radiotherapy. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4296. [PMID: 39124563 PMCID: PMC11312949 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13154296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Treatment guidelines for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) vary by several factors including pathological stage, patient candidacy, and goal of treatment. With many therapeutics and even more combinations available in the NSCLC clinician's toolkit, a multitude of questions remain unanswered vis-a-vis treatment optimization. While some studies have begun exploring the interplay among the many pillars of NSCLC treatment-surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy-the vast number of combinations and permutations of different therapy modalities in addition to the modulation of each constituent therapy leaves much to be desired in a field that is otherwise rapidly evolving. Given NSCLC's high incidence and lethality, the experimentation of synergistic benefits that combinatorial treatment may confer presents a ripe target for advancement and increased understanding without the cost and burden of novel drug development. This review introduces, synthesizes, and compares prominent NSCLC therapies, placing emphasis on the interplay among types of therapies and the synergistic benefits some combinatorial therapies have demonstrated over the past several years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime A. Visa
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Mohamed E. Abazeed
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Diego Avella Patino
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
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Zhou Y, Li H, Tse E, Sun H. Metal-detection based techniques and their applications in metallobiology. Chem Sci 2024; 15:10264-10280. [PMID: 38994399 PMCID: PMC11234822 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc00108g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Metals are essential for human health and play a crucial role in numerous biological processes and pathways. Gaining a deeper insight into these biological events will facilitate novel strategies for disease prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment. In recent years, there has been significant progress in the development of metal-detection based techniques from single cell metallome and proteome profiling to multiplex imaging, which greatly enhance our comprehension of the intricate roles played by metals in complex biological systems. This perspective summarizes the recent progress in advanced metal-detection based techniques and highlights successful applications in elucidating the roles of metals in biology and medicine. Technologies including machine learning that couple with single-cell analysis such as mass cytometry and their application in metallobiology, cancer biology and immunology are also emphasized. Finally, we provide insights into future prospects and challenges involved in metal-detection based techniques, with the aim of inspiring further methodological advancements and applications that are accessible to chemists, biologists, and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics for Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Road Hong Kong SAR P. R. China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Chemistry, CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics for Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Road Hong Kong SAR P. R. China
| | - Eric Tse
- Department of Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Road Hong Kong SAR P. R. China
| | - Hongzhe Sun
- Department of Chemistry, CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics for Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Road Hong Kong SAR P. R. China
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Akhavan D, Subham S, Jeppson JD, Aguilar B, Wong RA, Hibbard JC, Hui S, Wong JYC, Forman SJ, Alizadeh D, Brown CE. Evaluation of the Immunomodulatory Effects of Radiation for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Cells 2024; 13:1075. [PMID: 38994929 PMCID: PMC11240512 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131075] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Standard-of-care treatment for Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is comprised of surgery and adjuvant chemoradiation. Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has demonstrated disease-modifying activity in GBM and holds great promise. Radiation, a standard-of-care treatment for GBM, has well-known immunomodulatory properties and may overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME); however, radiation dose optimization and integration with CAR T cell therapy is not well defined. Murine immunocompetent models of GBM were treated with titrated doses of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of 5, 10, and 20 Gray (Gy), and the TME was analyzed using Nanostring. A conditioning dose of 10 Gy was determined based on tumor growth kinetics and gene expression changes in the TME. We demonstrate that a conditioning dose of 10 Gy activates innate and adaptive immune cells in the TME. Mice treated with 10 Gy in combination with mCAR T cells demonstrated enhanced antitumor activity and superior memory responses to rechallenge with IL13Rα2-positive tumors. Furthermore, 10 Gy plus mCAR T cells also protected against IL13Rα2-negative tumors through a mechanism that was, in part, c-GAS-STING pathway-dependent. Together, these findings support combination conditioning with low-dose 10 Gy radiation in combination with mCAR T cells as a therapeutic strategy for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Akhavan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Bioengineering Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Siddharth Subham
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Bioengineering Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - John D Jeppson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Brenda Aguilar
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Robyn A Wong
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jonathan C Hibbard
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Susanta Hui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jeffrey Y C Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Darya Alizadeh
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Christine E Brown
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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Butterfield LH, Najjar YG. Immunotherapy combination approaches: mechanisms, biomarkers and clinical observations. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:399-416. [PMID: 38057451 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The approval of the first immune checkpoint inhibitors provided a paradigm shift for the treatment of malignancies across a broad range of indications. Whereas initially, single-agent immune checkpoint inhibition was used, increasing numbers of patients are now treated with combination immune checkpoint blockade, where non-redundant mechanisms of action of the individual agents generally lead to higher response rates. Furthermore, immune checkpoint therapy has been combined with various other therapeutic modalities, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other immunotherapeutics such as vaccines, adoptive cellular therapies, cytokines and others, in an effort to maximize clinical efficacy. Currently, a large number of clinical trials test combination therapies with an immune checkpoint inhibitor as a backbone. However, proceeding without inclusion of broad, if initially exploratory, biomarker investigations may ultimately slow progress, as so far, few combinations have yielded clinical successes based on clinical data alone. Here, we present the rationale for combination therapies and discuss clinical data from clinical trials across the immuno-oncology spectrum. Moreover, we discuss the evolution of biomarker approaches and highlight the potential new directions that comprehensive biomarker studies can yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa H Butterfield
- University of California San Francisco, Microbiology and Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Larkin RM, Lopez DC, Robbins YL, Lassoued W, Canubas K, Warner A, Karim B, Vulikh K, Hodge JW, Floudas CS, Gulley JL, Gallia GL, Allen CT, London NR. Augmentation of tumor expression of HLA-DR, CXCL9, and CXCL10 may improve olfactory neuroblastoma immunotherapeutic responses. J Transl Med 2024; 22:524. [PMID: 38822345 PMCID: PMC11140921 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05339-9] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare malignancy of the anterior skull base typically treated with surgery and adjuvant radiation. Although outcomes are fair for low-grade disease, patients with high-grade, recurrent, or metastatic disease oftentimes respond poorly to standard treatment methods. We hypothesized that an in-depth evaluation of the olfactory neuroblastoma tumor immune microenvironment would identify mechanisms of immune evasion in high-grade olfactory neuroblastoma as well as rational targetable mechanisms for future translational immunotherapeutic approaches. METHODS Multispectral immunofluorescence and RNAScope evaluation of the tumor immune microenvironment was performed on forty-seven clinically annotated olfactory neuroblastoma samples. A retrospective chart review was performed and clinical correlations assessed. RESULTS A significant T cell infiltration was noted in olfactory neuroblastoma samples with a stromal predilection, presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and sparse natural killer cells. A striking decrease was observed in MHC-I expression in high-grade olfactory neuroblastoma compared to low-grade disease, representing a mechanism of immune evasion in high-grade disease. Mechanistically, the immune effector stromal predilection appears driven by low tumor cell MHC class II (HLA-DR), CXCL9, and CXCL10 expression as those tumors with increased tumor cell expression of each of these mediators correlated with significant increases in T cell infiltration. CONCLUSION These data suggest that immunotherapeutic strategies that augment tumor cell expression of MHC class II, CXCL9, and CXCL10 may improve parenchymal trafficking of immune effector cells in olfactory neuroblastoma and augment immunotherapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley M Larkin
- Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumor Program, Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Diana C Lopez
- Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumor Program, Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yvette L Robbins
- Section on Translational Tumor Immunology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wiem Lassoued
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth Canubas
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew Warner
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Baktiar Karim
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ksenia Vulikh
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - James W Hodge
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Charalampos S Floudas
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James L Gulley
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gary L Gallia
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Clint T Allen
- Section on Translational Tumor Immunology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nyall R London
- Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumor Program, Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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10
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Larson AC, Doty KR, Solheim JC. The double life of a chemotherapy drug: Immunomodulatory functions of gemcitabine in cancer. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7287. [PMID: 38770637 PMCID: PMC11106691 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7287] [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: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the development of immunotherapies has been revolutionary in the treatment of several cancers, many cancer types remain unresponsive to immune-based treatment and are largely managed by chemotherapy drugs. However, chemotherapeutics are not infallible and are frequently rendered ineffective as resistance develops from prolonged exposure. Recent investigations have indicated that some chemotherapy drugs have additional functions beyond their normative cytotoxic capacity and are in fact immune-modifying agents. Of the pharmaceuticals with identified immune-editing properties, gemcitabine is well-studied and of interest to clinicians and scientists alike. Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy drug approved for the treatment of multiple cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, and ovarian. Because of its broad applications, relatively low toxicity profile, and history as a favorable combinatory partner, there is promise in the recharacterization of gemcitabine in the context of the immune system. Such efforts may allow the identification of suitable immunotherapeutic combinations, wherein gemcitabine can be used as a priming agent to improve immunotherapy efficacy in traditionally insensitive cancers. This review looks to highlight documented immunomodulatory abilities of one of the most well-known chemotherapy agents, gemcitabine, relating to its influence on cells and proteins of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina C. Larson
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Kenadie R. Doty
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Joyce C. Solheim
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, & ImmunologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
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Gass P, Thiel FC, Häberle L, Ackermann S, Theuser AK, Hummel N, Boehm S, Kimmig R, Reinthaller A, Becker S, Hilpert F, Janni W, Vergote I, Harter P, Emons J, Hein A, Beckmann MW, Fasching PA, Pöschke P. Primary results of the AGO-Zervix-1 Study: A prospective, randomized phase III study to compare the effects of paclitaxel and topotecan with those of cisplatin and topotecan in the treatment of patients with recurrent and persistent cervical cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 183:25-32. [PMID: 38490057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Before the era of immunotherapies and antibody-drug conjugates, there were limited chemotherapeutic options for patients with recurrent and metastatic cervical cancer. Combination therapies with cisplatin have shown some superiority over monotherapy. This study examined platinum-free treatment regimens, comparing a combination of topotecan and paclitaxel (TP) with topotecan and cisplatin (TC) in patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer, with or without prior platinum-based treatment. METHODS The AGO-Zervix-1 Study (NCT01405235) is a prospective, randomized phase III study in which patients were randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to treatment within the control arm with topotecan (0.75 mg/m2) on days 1-3 and cisplatin (50 mg/m2) on day 1 every 3 weeks and in the study arm topotecan (1.75 mg/m2) and paclitaxel (70 mg/m2) on days 1, 8, and 15 every 4 weeks or treatment. The primary study aim was overall survival; progression-free survival, toxicity, and quality of life were secondary aims. The interim and final analysis is here reported after recruitment of 173 of 312 planned patients. RESULTS Median overall survival in the TP arm was 9.6 months, compared with 12.0 months in the TC arm (log-rank test, P = 0.33). Median progression-free survival rates were 4.4 months with TP and 4.2 months with TC (log-rank test, P = 0.47). Leukopenia and nausea/vomiting were more frequent in the cisplatin-containing arm. Otherwise, toxicity profiles were comparable. There were no differences in FACT-G-assessed quality of life. CONCLUSION Platinum-based combination chemotherapy remains the standard of care chemotherapy regimen for patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Gass
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Falk C Thiel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Alb Fils Clinics, Klinik am Eichert, Göppingen, Germany
| | - Lothar Häberle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany; Biostatistics Unit, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven Ackermann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Nadine Hummel
- Institut für Frauengesundheit GmbH, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sibylle Boehm
- Institut für Frauengesundheit GmbH, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Essen University Hospital, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexander Reinthaller
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, AKH Vienna University Hospital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sven Becker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Frankfurt University Hospital, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix Hilpert
- Onkologisches Therapiezentrum, Krankenhaus Jerusalem, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Janni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ignace Vergote
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Phlipp Harter
- Department of Gynecology & Gynecologic Oncology, Ev. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Julius Emons
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Hein
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Esslingen, Esslingen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Patrik Pöschke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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12
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Nicolini A, Ferrari P, Silvestri R, Gemignani F. The breast cancer tumor microenvironment and precision medicine: immunogenicity and conditions favoring response to immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL CANCER CENTER 2024; 4:14-24. [PMID: 39036381 PMCID: PMC11256721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jncc.2024.01.004] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Some main recent researches that have dissected tumor microenvironment (TME) by imaging mass cytometry (IMC) in different subtypes of primary breast cancer samples were considered. The many phenotypic variants, clusters of epithelial tumor and immune cells, their structural features as well as the main genetic aberrations, sub-clonal heterogeneity and their systematic classification also have been examined. Mutational evolution has been assessed in primary and metastatic breast cancer samples. Overall, based on these findings the current concept of precision medicine is questioned and challenged by alternative therapeutic strategies. In the last two decades, immunotherapy as a powerful and harmless tool to fight cancer has received huge attention. Thus, the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) composition, its prognostic role for clinical course as well as a novel definition of immunogenicity in breast cancer are proposed. Investigational clinical trials carried out by us and other findings suggest that G0-G1 state induced in endocrine-dependent metastatic breast cancer is more suitable for successful immune manipulation. Residual micro-metastatic disease seems to be another specific condition that can significantly favor the immune response in breast and other solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Nicolini
- Department of Oncology, Transplantations and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Ferrari
- Department of Oncology, Transplantations and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberto Silvestri
- Department of Biology, Genetic Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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13
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Katsikis PD, Ishii KJ, Schliehe C. Challenges in developing personalized neoantigen cancer vaccines. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:213-227. [PMID: 37783860 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00937-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
The recent success of cancer immunotherapies has highlighted the benefit of harnessing the immune system for cancer treatment. Vaccines have a long history of promoting immunity to pathogens and, consequently, vaccines targeting cancer neoantigens have been championed as a tool to direct and amplify immune responses against tumours while sparing healthy tissue. In recent years, extensive preclinical research and more than one hundred clinical trials have tested different strategies of neoantigen discovery and vaccine formulations. However, despite the enthusiasm for neoantigen vaccines, proof of unequivocal efficacy has remained beyond reach for the majority of clinical trials. In this Review, we focus on the key obstacles pertaining to vaccine design and tumour environment that remain to be overcome in order to unleash the true potential of neoantigen vaccines in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Katsikis
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Ken J Ishii
- Division of Vaccine Science, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo, Japan
- International Vaccine Design Center (vDesC), The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Christopher Schliehe
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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14
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Evmorfopoulos K, Marsitopoulos K, Karachalios R, Karathanasis A, Dimitropoulos K, Tzortzis V, Zachos I, Vlachostergios PJ. The Immune Landscape and Immunotherapeutic Strategies in Platinum-Refractory Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:428. [PMID: 38275869 PMCID: PMC10814346 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020428] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are cancers with very good prognosis, even in the metastatic setting, with high curative potential mainly attributed to the introduction of cisplatin-based chemotherapy. However, approximately 15% of the patients develop platinum-refractory disease and suffer multiple relapses. Therefore, there is an unmet need for novel therapeutic agents with improved efficacy and minimal long-term side effects. Recent advances in the development of immunotherapeutic agents, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have offered an opportunity to test their activity in various tumor types, including GCTs. This review aims to analyze the immune microenvironment of these tumors and present the most recently available data from studies that have tested immunotherapeutic agents against GCTs. The majority of the available knowledge derives from case reports or small cohort studies, particularly those involving ICIs of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis alone or in combination with anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibodies. Other immunotherapeutic targeted approaches, including antibody-drug conjugates, antibody prodrugs, vaccines, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, have biological rationales and have shown preliminary activity or are currently being tested. Growing evidence on these and other approaches will assist in broadening the currently limited treatment armamentarium against platinum-refractory TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Evmorfopoulos
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | - Konstantinos Marsitopoulos
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | - Raphael Karachalios
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | - Athanasios Karathanasis
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | | | - Vassilios Tzortzis
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | - Ioannis Zachos
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
| | - Panagiotis J. Vlachostergios
- Department of Urology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece (V.T.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, IASO Thessalias Hospital, 41500 Larissa, Greece
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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15
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Alotaibi F, Alshammari K, Alotaibi BA, Alsaab H. Destabilizing the genome as a therapeutic strategy to enhance response to immune checkpoint blockade: a systematic review of clinical trials evidence from solid and hematological tumors. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1280591. [PMID: 38264532 PMCID: PMC10803447 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1280591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Genomic instability is increased alterations in the genome during cell division and is common among most cancer cells. Genome instability enhances the risk of initial carcinogenic transformation, generating new clones of tumor cells, and increases tumor heterogeneity. Although genome instability contributes to malignancy, it is also an "Achilles' heel" that constitutes a therapeutically-exploitable weakness-when sufficiently advanced, it can intrinsically reduce tumor cell survival by creating DNA damage and mutation events that overwhelm the capacity of cancer cells to repair those lesions. Furthermore, it can contribute to extrinsic survival-reducing events by generating mutations that encode new immunogenic antigens capable of being recognized by the immune system, particularly when anti-tumor immunity is boosted by immunotherapy drugs. Here, we describe how genome-destabilization can induce immune activation in cancer patients and systematically review the induction of genome instability exploited clinically, in combination with immune checkpoint blockade. Methods: We performed a systematic review of clinical trials that exploited the combination approach to successfully treat cancers patients. We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Clinicaltrials.gov, and publication from the reference list of related articles. The most relevant inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed clinical trials published in English. Results: We identified 1,490 studies, among those 164 were clinical trials. A total of 37 clinical trials satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The main outcome measurements were overall survival and progression-free survival. The majority of the clinical trials (30 out of 37) showed a significant improvement in patient outcome. Conclusion: The majority of the included clinical trials reported the efficacy of the concept of targeting DNA repair pathway, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, to create a "ring of synergy" to treat cancer with rational combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faizah Alotaibi
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Alahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kanaan Alshammari
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Oncology Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Badi A. Alotaibi
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hashem Alsaab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Wu X, Li T, Jiang R, Yang X, Guo H, Yang R. Targeting MHC-I molecules for cancer: function, mechanism, and therapeutic prospects. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:194. [PMID: 38041084 PMCID: PMC10693139 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01899-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecules of Major histocompatibility class I (MHC-I) load peptides and present them on the cell surface, which provided the immune system with the signal to detect and eliminate the infected or cancerous cells. In the context of cancer, owing to the crucial immune-regulatory roles played by MHC-I molecules, the abnormal modulation of MHC-I expression and function could be hijacked by tumor cells to escape the immune surveillance and attack, thereby promoting tumoral progression and impairing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Here we reviewed and discussed the recent studies and discoveries related to the MHC-I molecules and their multidirectional functions in the development of cancer, mainly focusing on the interactions between MHC-I and the multiple participators in the tumor microenvironment and highlighting the significance of targeting MHC-I for optimizing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy and a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature and functioning mechanism of MHC-I in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Wu
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianhang Li
- Department of Urology, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Surgical Research Center, Institute of Urology, Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongqian Guo
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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17
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Imamura M. Medium-dose etoposide, cyclophosphamide and total body irradiation conditioning potentiates anti-leukemia immunity in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia without aggravating graft-versus-host disease. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:1251-1258. [PMID: 37665303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Medium-dose etoposide (ETP), cyclophosphamide (CY) and total body irradiation (TBI) is a beneficial conditioning regimen for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially with high-risk ALL, as compared with CY and TBI conditioning. ETP may enhance immunogenicity of leukemia-associated antigens through increased expression of major histocompatibility antigen complex class I, leading to cross-priming of T cells by dendritic cells and generating leukemia-specific cytotoxic T cells. Furthermore, ETP can eliminate activated effector T cells, sparing naïve and memory T cells, accompanied with depletion of regulatory T cells. These mechanisms are supposed to lead to inhibit immune escape of leukemia cells and enhance anti-leukemia immunity in addition to direct cytotoxicity of ETP, followed by an efficient eradication of leukemia cells. According to the findings of pharmacokinetics studies, spreading the administration of low-dose ETP may be more efficacious than non-spreading administration, to induce a potent anti-leukemia immunity without aggravating graft-versus-host disease and transplant-related toxicity. In the present review, I discuss the immunological aspects elicited by the addition of medium-dose ETP to the CY/TBI conditioning and the possible positioning of allo-HCT with this conditioning in adults with ALL, considering recent progress in non-HCT treatment including bispecific antibody-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Imamura
- Department of Hematology, Sapporo Hokuyu Hospital, Sapporo, Japan.
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18
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Zhao K, Huang J, Zhao Y, Wang S, Xu J, Yin K. Targeting STING in cancer: Challenges and emerging opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188983. [PMID: 37717857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is a key pathway through which the host regulates immune responses by recognizing cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA of abnormal origin, and it plays an important role in tumor growth as well as metastasis, with relevant molecular details constantly being explored and updated. The significant immunomodulatory effects make STING an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy, and STING agonists have been receiving great attention for their development and clinical translation. Despite exciting results in preclinical work, the application of STING agonists to cancer therapy remains challenging due to their poor pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties, as well as toxic side effects they produce. Here, we summarize the dichotomous role of cGAS-STING in cancer and discuss the limitations of cancer immunotherapy based on STING activation as well as feasible strategies to overcome them to achieve tumor regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China; Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
| | - Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
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19
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Yao S, Han Y, Yang M, Jin K, Lan H. It's high-time to re-evaluate the value of induced-chemotherapy for reinforcing immunotherapy in colorectal cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1241208. [PMID: 37920463 PMCID: PMC10619163 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1241208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has made significant advances in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), revolutionizing the therapeutic landscape and highlighting the indispensable role of the tumor immune microenvironment. However, some CRCs have shown poor response to immunotherapy, prompting investigation into the underlying reasons. It has been discovered that certain chemotherapeutic agents possess immune-stimulatory properties, including the induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD), the generation and processing of non-mutated neoantigens (NM-neoAgs), and the B cell follicle-driven T cell response. Based on these findings, the concept of inducing chemotherapy has been introduced, and the combination of inducing chemotherapy and immunotherapy has become a standard treatment option for certain cancers. Clinical trials have confirmed the feasibility and safety of this approach in CRC, offering a promising method for improving the efficacy of immunotherapy. Nevertheless, there are still many challenges and difficulties ahead, and further research is required to optimize its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiya Yao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuejun Han
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengxiang Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ketao Jin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanrong Lan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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20
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Yadav A, Yadav S, Alam MA. Immunotherapies landscape and associated inhibitors for the treatment of cervical cancer. Med Oncol 2023; 40:328. [PMID: 37815596 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02188-2] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common form of cancer worldwide. There is a large number of situations that may be examined in the developing world. The risk of contracting HPV (Human Papillomavirus) due to poor sanitation and sexual activity is mostly to blame for the disease's alarming rate of expansion. Immunotherapy is widely regarded as one of the most effective medicines available. The immunotherapy used to treat cervical cancer cells relies on inhibitors that block the immune checkpoint. The poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymer inhibited cervical cancer cells by activating both the programmed death 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (CTLA-1) checkpoints, a strategy that has been shown to have impressive effects. Yet, immunotherapy directed towards tumors that have already been invaded by lymphocytes leaves a positive imprint on the healing process. Immunotherapy is used in conjunction with other treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, to provide faster and more effective outcomes. In this combination therapy, several medications such as Pembrolizumab, Durvalumab, Atezolizumab, and so on are employed in clinical trials. Recent developments and future predictions suggest that vaccinations will soon be developed with the dual goal of reducing the patient's susceptibility to illness while simultaneously strengthening their immune system. Many clinical and preclinical studies are now investigating the effectiveness of immunotherapy in slowing the progression of cervical cancer. The field of immunotherapy is expected to witness more progress toward improving outcomes. Immunotherapies landscape and associated inhibitors for the treatment of Cervical Cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agrima Yadav
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shikha Yadav
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Plot No. 2, Sector 17-A, Yamuna Expressway, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India.
| | - Md Aftab Alam
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
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21
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Qiao W, Hu C, Ma J, Dong X, Dalangood S, Li H, Yuan C, Lu B, Gao WQ, Wen Z, Yin W, Gui J. Low-dose metronomic chemotherapy triggers oxidized mtDNA sensing inside tumor cells to potentiate CD8 +T anti-tumor immunity. Cancer Lett 2023; 573:216370. [PMID: 37660883 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Low-dose metronomic (LDM) chemotherapy, the frequent and continuous use of low doses of conventional chemotherapeutics, is emerging as a promising form of chemotherapy utilization. LDM chemotherapy exerts immunomodulatory effects. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Here we found that suppressing tumor growth by LDM chemotherapy was dependent on the activation of CD8+T cells. LDM chemotherapy potentiated the cytotoxic function of CD8+T cells by stimulating cancer-cell autonomous type I interferon (IFN) induction. Mechanistically, LDM chemotherapy evoked mitochondrial dysfunction and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS triggered the oxidation of cytosolic mtDNA, which was sensed by cGAS-STING, consequently inducing type I IFN production in the cancer cells. Moreover, the cGAS-STING-IFN axis increased PD-L1 expression and predicted favorable clinical responses to chemoimmunotherapy. Antioxidant N-acetylcysteine inhibited oxidized mtDNA-induced type I IFN production and attenuated the efficacy of combination therapy with LDM chemotherapy and PD-L1 blockade. This study elucidates the critical role of intratumoral oxidized mtDNA sensing in LDM chemotherapy-mediated activation of CD8+T cell immune response. These findings may provide new insights for designing combinatorial immunotherapy for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Cegui Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jiayi Ma
- Department of Breast Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xinrui Dong
- Department of Breast Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Sumiya Dalangood
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Hanjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Chenwei Yuan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Binbin Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Wei-Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China; School of Biomedical Engineering and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Zhenke Wen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Wenjin Yin
- Department of Breast Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Jun Gui
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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22
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Ngamphaiboon N, Chairoungdua A, Dajsakdipon T, Jiarpinitnun C. Evolving role of novel radiosensitizers and immune checkpoint inhibitors in (chemo)radiotherapy of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Oncol 2023; 145:106520. [PMID: 37467684 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) remains the standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC), based on numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrating that CRT improved locoregional control and overall survival. Achieving locoregional control is a crucial outcome for the treatment of HNSCC, as it directly affects patient quality of life and survival. Cisplatin is the recommended standard-of-care radiosensitizing agent for LA-HNSCC patients undergoing CRT, whereas cetuximab-radiotherapy is reserved for cisplatin-ineligible patients. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown promise in the treatment of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC. However, the combination of ICIs with standard-of-care radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in LA-HNSCC has not demonstrated significant improvement in survivals. Over the past few decades, significant advancements in radiotherapy techniques have allowed for more precise and effective radiation delivery while minimizing toxicity to surrounding normal tissues. These advances have led to improved treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with LA-HNSCC. Despite these advancements, the development of novel radiosensitizing agents remains an unmet need. This review discusses the mechanism of radiotherapy and its impact on the immune system. We summarize the latest clinical development of novel radiosensitizing agents, such as SMAC mimetics, DDR pathway inhibitors, and CDK4/6 inhibitor. We also elucidate the emerging evidence of combining ICIs with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in curative settings for LA-HNSCC, using both concurrent and sequential approaches. Lastly, we discuss the future direction of systemic therapy in combination with radiotherapy in treatment for LA-HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuttapong Ngamphaiboon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Arthit Chairoungdua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Toxicology Graduate Program, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Excellent Center for Drug Discovery (ECDD), Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanate Dajsakdipon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chuleeporn Jiarpinitnun
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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23
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Xie Y, Lecoester B, Boustani J. Contribution of chemotherapy in immunoradiotherapy combinations. Cancer Radiother 2023; 27:519-523. [PMID: 37495428 DOI: 10.1016/j.canrad.2023.06.015] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Several preclinical data have suggested the ability of radiation therapy to modulate the intrinsic immunogenicity of cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, with the aim of increasing responses to checkpoint inhibitors. Early results showing a restoration of checkpoint inhibitors response in patients following irradiation have generated a lot of enthusiasm around radiation therapy beyond its usual role in local disease control. Prospective clinical trials evaluating immunoradiotherapy combinations have provided proof-of-concept that radiation therapy may induce tumor-specific T immune responses in patients treated with checkpoint inhibitors. However, these results are not always reproducible, reflecting the existence of factors related to either radiation therapy, immunotherapy and/or the host, which influence the efficacy of these combinations. Anticancer chemotherapy can play a role in amplifying the immune-radiation response by promoting tumor immunogenicity and modulating the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Xie
- Inserm, EFS BFC, UMR 1098, RIGHT, greffon-hôte-tumeur interactions/ingénierie cellulaire et génique, université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - B Lecoester
- Inserm, EFS BFC, UMR 1098, RIGHT, greffon-hôte-tumeur interactions/ingénierie cellulaire et génique, université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - J Boustani
- Inserm, EFS BFC, UMR 1098, RIGHT, greffon-hôte-tumeur interactions/ingénierie cellulaire et génique, université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France; Department of Radiation Therapy, Besançon University Hospital, Besançon, France.
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24
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Jin WJ, Zangl LM, Hyun M, Massoud E, Schroeder K, Alexandridis RA, Morris ZS. ATM inhibition augments type I interferon response and antitumor T-cell immunity when combined with radiation therapy in murine tumor models. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007474. [PMID: 37730275 PMCID: PMC10510866 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007474] [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: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation therapy (RT) elicits DNA double-strand breaks, resulting in tumor cytotoxicity and a type I interferon (IFN) response via stimulator of interferon genes (STING) activation. We investigated whether combining RT with an ataxia-telangiectasia mutated inhibitor promoted these effects and amplified tumor immunity. METHODS Mice-bearing syngeneic flank tumors (MOC2 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma or B78 melanoma) were treated with tumor-directed RT and oral administration of AZD0156. Specific immune cell depletion, type 1 interferon receptor 1 knock-out mice (IFNAR1-KO), and STING-deficient tumor cells were used to investigate tumor-immune crosstalk following RT and AZD0156 treatment. RESULTS Combining RT and AZD0156 reduced tumor growth compared with RT or AZD0156 alone in mice bearing MOC2 or B78 tumors. Low-dose AZD0156 (1-100 nM) alone did not affect tumor cell proliferation but suppressed tumor cell clonogenicity in combination with RT. Low-dose AZD0156 with RT synergistically increased IFN-β, major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in tumor cells. In contrast to wild-type mice, IFNAR1-KO mice showed reduced CD8+T cell tumor infiltration and poor survival following RT+AZD0156 treatment. CD8+T cell depletion reduced antitumor response during RT+AZD0156 treatment. STING-deficient MOC2 (MOC2-STING+/-) or B78 (B78-STING-/-) tumors eliminated the effects of RT+AZD0156 on the expression of IFN-β, MHC-I, and PD-L1, and reduced CD8+T cell infiltration and migration. Additional anti-PD-L1 therapy promoted antitumor response by elevation of tumor-MHC-I and lymphocyte activation. CONCLUSIONS Combined radiation and AZD0156 increase STING-dependent antitumor response. Tumor-derived cell-autonomous IFN-β amplification drives both MHC-I and PD-L1 induction at the tumor cell surface, which is required by anti-PD-L1 therapy to promote antitumor immune response following RT and AZD0156 combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Jong Jin
- Department Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Luke M Zangl
- Department Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Meredith Hyun
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Elian Massoud
- Department Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kaleb Schroeder
- Department Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Roxana A Alexandridis
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zachary S Morris
- Department Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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25
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Dhandapani H, Siddiqui A, Karadkar S, Tayalia P. In Vitro 3D Spheroid Model Preserves Tumor Microenvironment of Hot and Cold Breast Cancer Subtypes. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300164. [PMID: 37141121 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic interaction of cancer, immune, and stromal cells with extracellular matrix components modulates and resists the response of standard care therapies. To mimic this, an in vitro 3D spheroid model is designed using liquid overlay method to simulate hot (MDA-MB-231) and cold (MCF-7) breast tumor microenvironment (TME). This study shows increased mesenchymal phenotype, stemness, and suppressive microenvironment in MDA-MB-231-spheroids upon exposure to doxorubicin. Intriguingly, the presence of human dermal fibroblasts enhances cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype in MDA-MB-231-spheroids through increased expression of CXCL12 and FSP-1, leading to higher infiltration of immune cells (THP-1 monocytes). However, a suppressive TME is observed in both subtypes, as seen by upregulation of M2-macrophage-specific CD68 and CD206 markers. Specifically, increased PDL-1 expressing tumor-associated macrophages along with FoxP3 expressing T regulatory cells are found in MDA-MB-231-spheroids when cultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Further, it is found that the addition of 1-methyl-tryptophan, a potent indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase-1 inhibitor, subsides the suppressive phenotype by decreasing the M2 polarization via downregulation of tryptophan metabolism and IL10 expression, particularly in MCF-7 triculture spheroids. Thus, the in vitro 3D spheroid model of TME can be utilized in therapeutics to validate immunomodulatory drugs for various breast cancer subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemavathi Dhandapani
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400076, India
| | - Armaan Siddiqui
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400076, India
| | - Shivam Karadkar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400076, India
| | - Prakriti Tayalia
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400076, India
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26
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Altan M, Wang Y, Song J, Welsh J, Tang C, Guha-Thakurta N, Blumenschein GR, Carter BW, Wefel JS, Ghia AJ, Yeboa DN, McAleer MF, Chung C, Woodhouse KD, McGovern SL, Wang C, Kim BYS, Weinberg JS, Briere TM, Elamin YY, Lee X, Cascone T, Negrao MV, Skoulidis F, Ferrarotto R, Heymach JV, Li J. Nivolumab and ipilimumab with concurrent stereotactic radiosurgery for intracranial metastases from non-small cell lung cancer: analysis of the safety cohort for non-randomized, open-label, phase I/II trial. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006871. [PMID: 37402581 PMCID: PMC10335483 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 20% of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) develop brain metastasis (BM), for which the current standard of care is radiation therapy with or without surgery. There are no prospective data on the safety of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) concurrent with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for BM. This is the safety cohort of the phase I/II investigator-initiated trial of SRS with nivolumab and ipilimumab for patients with BM from NSCLC. PATIENTS AND METHODS This single-institution study included patients with NSCLC with active BM amenable to SRS. Brain SRS and systemic therapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab were delivered concurrently (within 7 days). The endpoints were safety and 4-month intracranial progression-free survival (PFS). RESULTS Thirteen patients were enrolled in the safety cohort, 10 of whom were evaluable for dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). Median follow-up was 23 months (range 9.7-24.3 months). The median interval between systemic therapy and radiation therapy was 3 days. Only one patient had a DLT; hence, predefined stopping criteria were not met. In addition to the patient with DLT, three patients had treatment-related grade ≥3 adverse events, including elevated liver function tests, fatigue, nausea, adrenal insufficiency, and myocarditis. One patient had a confirmed influenza infection 7 months after initiation of protocol treatment (outside the DLT assessment window), leading to pneumonia and subsequent death from hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. The estimated 4-month intracranial PFS rate was 70.7%. CONCLUSION Concurrent brain SRS with nivolumab/ipilimumab was safe for patients with active NSCLC BM. Preliminary analyses of treatment efficacy were encouraging for intracranial treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Altan
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Juhee Song
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - James Welsh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chad Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nandita Guha-Thakurta
- Department of Neuroradiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - George R Blumenschein
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Brett W Carter
- Department of Thoracic Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Wefel
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Amol J Ghia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Debra N Yeboa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mary Frances McAleer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Caroline Chung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kristina D Woodhouse
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Susan L McGovern
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chenyang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Betty Y S Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Weinberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Tina M Briere
- Department of Radiation Physics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yasir Y Elamin
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiuning Lee
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Tina Cascone
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marcelo V Negrao
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ferdinandos Skoulidis
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Renata Ferrarotto
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - John V Heymach
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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27
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Hannon G, Lesch ML, Gerber SA. Harnessing the Immunological Effects of Radiation to Improve Immunotherapies in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7359. [PMID: 37108522 PMCID: PMC10138513 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087359] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation (IR) is used to treat 50% of cancers. While the cytotoxic effects related to DNA damage with IR have been known since the early 20th century, the role of the immune system in the treatment response is still yet to be fully determined. IR can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD), which activates innate and adaptive immunity against the cancer. It has also been widely reported that an intact immune system is essential to IR efficacy. However, this response is typically transient, and wound healing processes also become upregulated, dampening early immunological efforts to overcome the disease. This immune suppression involves many complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that ultimately result in the generation of radioresistance in many cases. Understanding the mechanisms behind these responses is challenging as the effects are extensive and often occur simultaneously within the tumor. Here, we describe the effects of IR on the immune landscape of tumors. ICD, along with myeloid and lymphoid responses to IR, are discussed, with the hope of shedding light on the complex immune stimulatory and immunosuppressive responses involved with this cornerstone cancer treatment. Leveraging these immunological effects can provide a platform for improving immunotherapy efficacy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Hannon
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; (G.H.); (M.L.L.)
- Center for Tumor Immunology Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Maggie L. Lesch
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; (G.H.); (M.L.L.)
- Center for Tumor Immunology Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Scott A. Gerber
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; (G.H.); (M.L.L.)
- Center for Tumor Immunology Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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28
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Liu S, Sun Q, Ren X. Novel strategies for cancer immunotherapy: counter-immunoediting therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:38. [PMID: 37055849 PMCID: PMC10099030 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01430-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of immunotherapy has made an indelible mark on the field of cancer therapy, especially the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical practice. Although immunotherapy has proven its efficacy and safety in some tumors, many patients still have innate or acquired resistance to immunotherapy. The emergence of this phenomenon is closely related to the highly heterogeneous immune microenvironment formed by tumor cells after undergoing cancer immunoediting. The process of cancer immunoediting refers to the cooperative interaction between tumor cells and the immune system that involves three phases: elimination, equilibrium, and escape. During these phases, conflicting interactions between the immune system and tumor cells result in the formation of a complex immune microenvironment, which contributes to the acquisition of different levels of immunotherapy resistance in tumor cells. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of different phases of cancer immunoediting and the corresponding therapeutic tools, and we propose normalized therapeutic strategies based on immunophenotyping. The process of cancer immunoediting is retrograded through targeted interventions in different phases of cancer immunoediting, making immunotherapy in the context of precision therapy the most promising therapy to cure cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaochuan Liu
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, 300060, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, 300060, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China.
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, 300060, Tianjin, China.
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 300060, Tianjin, China.
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29
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Voorwerk L, Isaeva OI, Horlings HM, Balduzzi S, Chelushkin M, Bakker NAM, Champanhet E, Garner H, Sikorska K, Loo CE, Kemper I, Mandjes IAM, de Maaker M, van Geel JJL, Boers J, de Boer M, Salgado R, van Dongen MGJ, Sonke GS, de Visser KE, Schumacher TN, Blank CU, Wessels LFA, Jager A, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Schröder CP, Linn SC, Kok M. PD-L1 blockade in combination with carboplatin as immune induction in metastatic lobular breast cancer: the GELATO trial. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:535-549. [PMID: 37038006 PMCID: PMC10132987 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00542-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Invasive lobular breast cancer (ILC) is the second most common histological breast cancer subtype, but ILC-specific trials are lacking. Translational research revealed an immune-related ILC subset, and in mouse ILC models, synergy between immune checkpoint blockade and platinum was observed. In the phase II GELATO trial ( NCT03147040 ), patients with metastatic ILC were treated with weekly carboplatin (area under the curve 1.5 mg ml-1 min-1) as immune induction for 12 weeks and atezolizumab (PD-L1 blockade; triweekly) from the third week until progression. Four of 23 evaluable patients had a partial response (17%), and 2 had stable disease, resulting in a clinical benefit rate of 26%. From these six patients, four had triple-negative ILC (TN-ILC). We observed higher CD8+ T cell infiltration, immune checkpoint expression and exhausted T cells after treatment. With this GELATO trial, we show that ILC-specific clinical trials are feasible and demonstrate promising antitumor activity of atezolizumab with carboplatin, particularly for TN-ILC, and provide insights for the design of highly needed ILC-specific trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Voorwerk
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Olga I Isaeva
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hugo M Horlings
- Department of Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sara Balduzzi
- Department of Biometrics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maksim Chelushkin
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Noor A M Bakker
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elisa Champanhet
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah Garner
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karolina Sikorska
- Department of Biometrics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Claudette E Loo
- Department of Radiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Inge Kemper
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ingrid A M Mandjes
- Department of Biometrics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michiel de Maaker
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jasper J L van Geel
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jorianne Boers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike de Boer
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Roberto Salgado
- Department of Pathology, GZA-ZNA hospitals, Antwerp, Belgium
- Division of Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marloes G J van Dongen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gabe S Sonke
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karin E de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ton N Schumacher
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Christian U Blank
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lodewyk F A Wessels
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Agnes Jager
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vivianne C G Tjan-Heijnen
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Carolien P Schröder
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sabine C Linn
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marleen Kok
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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30
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Waanders L, van der Donk LEH, Ates LS, Maaskant J, van Hamme JL, Eldering E, van Bruggen JAC, Rietveld JM, Bitter W, Geijtenbeek TBH, Kuijl CP. Ectopic expression of cGAS in Salmonella typhimurium enhances STING-mediated IFN-β response in human macrophages and dendritic cells. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-005839. [PMID: 37072345 PMCID: PMC10124277 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interferon (IFN)-β induction via activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has shown promising results in tumor models. STING is activated by cyclic dinucleotides such as cyclic GMP-AMP dinucleotides with phosphodiester linkages 2'-5' and 3'-5' (cGAMPs), that are produced by cyclic GMP-AMP synthetase (cGAS). However, delivery of STING pathway agonists to the tumor site is a challenge. Bacterial vaccine strains have the ability to specifically colonize hypoxic tumor tissues and could therefore be modified to overcome this challenge. Combining high STING-mediated IFN-β levels with the immunostimulatory properties of Salmonella typhimurium could have potential to overcome the immune suppressive tumor microenvironment. METHODS We have engineered S. typhimurium to produce cGAMP by expression of cGAS. The ability of cGAMP to induce IFN-β and its IFN-stimulating genes was addressed in infection assays of THP-I macrophages and human primary dendritic cells (DCs). Expression of catalytically inactive cGAS is used as a control. DC maturation and cytotoxic T-cell cytokine and cytotoxicity assays were conducted to assess the potential antitumor response in vitro. Finally, by making use of different S. typhimurium type III secretion (T3S) mutants, the mode of cGAMP transport was elucidated. RESULTS Expression of cGAS in S. typhimurium results in a 87-fold stronger IFN-β response in THP-I macrophages. This effect was mediated by cGAMP production and is STING dependent. Interestingly, the needle-like structure of the T3S system was necessary for IFN-β induction in epithelial cells. DC activation included upregulation of maturation markers and induction of type I IFN response. Coculture of challenged DCs with cytotoxic T cells revealed an improved cGAMP-mediated IFN-γ response. In addition, coculture of cytotoxic T cells with challenged DCs led to improved immune-mediated tumor B-cell killing. CONCLUSION S. typhimurium can be engineered to produce cGAMPs that activate the STING pathway in vitro. Furthermore, they enhanced the cytotoxic T-cell response by improving IFN-γ release and tumor cell killing. Thus, the immune response triggered by S. typhimurium can be enhanced by ectopic cGAS expression. These data show the potential of S. typhimurium-cGAS in vitro and provides rationale for further research in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette Waanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lieve E H van der Donk
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louis S Ates
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Maaskant
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John L van Hamme
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Eldering
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- The Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, LYMMCARE, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jaco A C van Bruggen
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joanne M Rietveld
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Bitter
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Life and Environment, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Teunis B H Geijtenbeek
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Coenraad P Kuijl
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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31
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Rational combinations of targeted cancer therapies: background, advances and challenges. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:213-234. [PMID: 36509911 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, elucidation of the genetic defects that underlie cancer has resulted in a plethora of novel targeted cancer drugs. Although these agents can initially be highly effective, resistance to single-agent therapies remains a major challenge. Combining drugs can help avoid resistance, but the number of possible drug combinations vastly exceeds what can be tested clinically, both financially and in terms of patient availability. Rational drug combinations based on a deep understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms associated with therapy resistance are potentially powerful in the treatment of cancer. Here, we discuss the mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies and how effective drug combinations can be identified to combat resistance. The challenges in clinically developing these combinations and future perspectives are considered.
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Gao Y, Li Y, Lin Z, Zeng Y, Huang Z, Han L, Zhong Y, Gong Y, Wu Q, Xie C. Ataxia telangiectasia mutated kinase inhibition promotes irradiation-induced PD-L1 expression in tumour-associated macrophages through IFN-I/JAK signalling pathway. Immunology 2023; 168:346-361. [PMID: 36326481 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the primary sources of PD-L1 expression in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Ionizing radiation (IR) promotes PD-L1 expression in tumour cells. However, the effect of IR on macrophage PD-L1 expression and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. ATM kinase, as the key kinase for initiating DNA damage repair (DDR) process, is associated with innate immune STING axis activation. Here, we explored the molecular mechanism implicated in macrophage PD-L1 expression regulated by IR as well as the role of ATM kinase in this process. IR-regulated PD-L1 expression in macrophages and associated signalling pathways were explored by in vitro studies using murine and human macrophage cell lines. A colorectal xenograft murine model was employed to demonstrate the impact of targeting ATM and PD-L1 expression in TAMs following IR on growth of tumour in vivo. IR up-regulated PD-L1 expression in macrophages, which was further augmented by ATM kinase inhibition. ATM inhibition increased IR-induced DNA damage, which activated STING/interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) signalling pathway and up-regulated type I interferon (IFN-I) expression in macrophages. IFN-I bound to the IFN α receptor 1 on macrophages, activated the downstream JAK1 and STAT1/3 signalling and eventually led to PD-L1 up-expression. ATM inhibition augmented IR-induced PD-L1 expression in macrophages and CD8+ T cell infiltration, and promoted anti-tumour efficacy in vivo. These results suggested that ATM inhibition promoted IR-induced PD-L1 expression through the activation of innate immunity in TAMs, which provided a novel approach to enhance the anti-tumour efficacy of RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuke Gao
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangyi Li
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zaihuan Lin
- Department of Gastric and Colorectal Surgical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxin Zeng
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhengrong Huang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Biological Repositories, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Linzhi Han
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yahua Zhong
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Biological Repositories, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiuji Wu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Conghua Xie
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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33
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Son C, Moey MYY, Walker PR, Naqash AR, Peach MS, Ju AW. Cardiac toxicity in patients with lung cancer receiving thoracic radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1025455. [PMID: 36698405 PMCID: PMC9868592 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1025455] [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: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are used to treat locally-advanced and metastatic lung cancer, which can lead to severe immunogenic-related cardiotoxicities. We assessed the risk of cardiotoxicity in ICI-treated lung cancer patients with or without cardiac radiation from thoracic radiotherapy. Methods Retrospective data was collected on Stage III-IV lung cancer patients who received ICIs between 2015 and 2018. All cardiotoxicities associated with ICI were assessed in correlation with the timing of radiotherapy (RT) in relation to ICI, and the mean RT heart dose. The rate of cardiac events in relation to RT timing and heart dose was compared using multiple logistic regression including the Framingham risk score and steroid use prior to ICI therapy. Results Of 194 ICI-treated patients evaluated, 55.2% (n=107/194) patients had received thoracic RT at a median dose of 60.4 Gy (range, 15-75). Cardiotoxicities such as non-ST elevated myocardial infarction and new onset supraventricular tachycardias were observed in 13 (12.2%) of those who had thoracic RT versus 9 (10.3%) who did not (p=0.87). 38 patients who received RT concurrently with ICI did not develop any cardiotoxicity whereas 14.1% (n=22/156) of those who did not receive concurrent RT developed cardiotoxicities (univariate, p=0.030; multivariate, p=0.055). There were no significant differences in the mean heart RT dose, Framingham risk score, and steroid treatment between patients that received concurrent RT with ICI versus non-concurrent RT/ICI. Conclusion ICI-related cardiotoxicities were not significantly associated with patients who received concurrent thoracic radiotherapy in this retrospective review. Further validation of prospective studies is needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Son
- Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Melissa Y. Y. Moey
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at Vidant Medical Center/East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Paul R. Walker
- Department of Hematology and Oncology at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Abdul R. Naqash
- Department of Hematology and Oncology at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States,Medical Oncology/TSET Phase 1 Program OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Matthew Sean Peach
- Department of Radiation and Oncology at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Andrew W. Ju
- Department of Radiation and Oncology at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Andrew W. Ju,
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Blomberg OS, Spagnuolo L, Garner H, Voorwerk L, Isaeva OI, van Dyk E, Bakker N, Chalabi M, Klaver C, Duijst M, Kersten K, Brüggemann M, Pastoors D, Hau CS, Vrijland K, Raeven EAM, Kaldenbach D, Kos K, Afonina IS, Kaptein P, Hoes L, Theelen WSME, Baas P, Voest EE, Beyaert R, Thommen DS, Wessels LFA, de Visser KE, Kok M. IL-5-producing CD4 + T cells and eosinophils cooperate to enhance response to immune checkpoint blockade in breast cancer. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:106-123.e10. [PMID: 36525971 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has heralded a new era in cancer therapy. Research into the mechanisms underlying response to ICB has predominantly focused on T cells; however, effective immune responses require tightly regulated crosstalk between innate and adaptive immune cells. Here, we combine unbiased analysis of blood and tumors from metastatic breast cancer patients treated with ICB with mechanistic studies in mouse models of breast cancer. We observe an increase in systemic and intratumoral eosinophils in patients and mice responding to ICB treatment. Mechanistically, ICB increased IL-5 production by CD4+ T cells, stimulating elevated eosinophil production from the bone marrow, leading to systemic eosinophil expansion. Additional induction of IL-33 by ICB-cisplatin combination or recombinant IL-33 promotes intratumoral eosinophil infiltration and eosinophil-dependent CD8+ T cell activation to enhance ICB response. This work demonstrates the critical role of eosinophils in ICB response and provides proof-of-principle for eosinophil engagement to enhance ICB efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga S Blomberg
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Spagnuolo
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah Garner
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Leonie Voorwerk
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Olga I Isaeva
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ewald van Dyk
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Noor Bakker
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Myriam Chalabi
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chris Klaver
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maxime Duijst
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kelly Kersten
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke Brüggemann
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dorien Pastoors
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Cheei-Sing Hau
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kim Vrijland
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth A M Raeven
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Daphne Kaldenbach
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Kos
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Inna S Afonina
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paulien Kaptein
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Louisa Hoes
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Willemijn S M E Theelen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Baas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Emile E Voest
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniela S Thommen
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lodewyk F A Wessels
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karin E de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Marleen Kok
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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35
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Tumor immunology. Clin Immunol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818006-8.00003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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36
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Korotaeva AA, Borunova AA, Kuzevanova AY, Zabotina TN, Alimov AA. [Molecular mechanisms of impaired antigenic presentation as a cause of tumor escape from immune surveillance]. Arkh Patol 2023; 85:76-83. [PMID: 38010642 DOI: 10.17116/patol20238506176] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The review summarizes data on the features of antigen presentation in tumor cells. The molecular mechanisms of the antitumor immune response are considered with an emphasis on the ability of tumor cells to avoid the action of immune surveillance. The features of expression of MHC molecules depending on treatment regimens are provided. Ways to improve existing and create new treatment regimens aimed at elimination of tumor cells because of antitumor immune response are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Korotaeva
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Borunova
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - T N Zabotina
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Alimov
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
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37
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Polten R, Kutle I, Hachenberg J, Klapdor R, Morgan M, Schambach A. Towards Novel Gene and Cell Therapy Approaches for Cervical Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010263. [PMID: 36612258 PMCID: PMC9818159 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women, and the majority of cases are caused by infection with high-risk human papilloma virus (HPV) subtypes. Despite effective preventative measures, such as vaccinations against HPV, over 300,000 women die world-wide from cervical cancer each year. Once cervical cancer is diagnosed, treatment may consist of radial hysterectomy, or chemotherapy and radiotherapy, or a combination of therapies dependent upon the disease stage. Unfortunately, overall prognosis for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease remains poor. In these cases, immunotherapies may be useful based on promising preclinical work, some of which has been successfully translated to the clinic. For example, approaches using monoclonal antibodies directed against surface proteins important for control of immune checkpoints (i.e., immune checkpoint inhibitors) were shown to improve outcome in many cancer settings, including cervical cancer. Additionally, initial clinical studies showed that application of cytotoxic immune cells modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) or T cell receptors (TCR) for better recognition and elimination of tumor cells may be useful to control cervical cancer. This review explores these important topics, including strengths and limitations of standard and developing approaches, and how some novel treatment strategies may be optimally used to offer the best possible treatment for cervical cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Polten
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ivana Kutle
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jens Hachenberg
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Klapdor
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.S.); Tel.: +49-511-532-6067 (A.S.)
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.S.); Tel.: +49-511-532-6067 (A.S.)
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38
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Wang H, Xu Y, Zuo F, Liu J, Yang J. Immune-based combination therapy for esophageal cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1020290. [PMID: 36591219 PMCID: PMC9797857 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1020290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is an aggressive malignancy raising a healthcare concern worldwide. Standard treatment options include surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted molecular therapy. The five-year survival rate for all stages of EC is approximately 20%, ranging from 5% to 47%, with a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis after treatment. Immunotherapy has shown better efficacy and tolerance than conventional therapies for several malignancies. Immunotherapy of EC, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy, has shown clinical advantages. In particular, monoclonal antibodies against PD-1 have a satisfactory role in combination therapy and are recommended for first- or second-line treatments. Here, we present a systematic summary and analysis of immunotherapy-based combination therapies for EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Wang
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Yufei Xu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Fengli Zuo
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Junzhi Liu
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiqiao Yang
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, China,Breast Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Jiqiao Yang,
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39
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Hassan M, Trung V, Bedi D, Shaddox S, Gunturu D, Yates C, Datta P, Samuel T. Interference with pathways activated by topoisomerase inhibition alters the surface expression of PD-L1 and MHC I in colon cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2022; 25:41. [PMID: 36589674 PMCID: PMC9773314 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Topoisomerase inhibitors are clinically used to treat various cancer types, including colorectal cancer. These drugs also activate signaling pathways that modulate cell survival and immune cell functions. Immunotherapy is promising for certain tumors, including microsatellite instable colorectal cancer, but not for microsatellite stable colorectal cancer. The reasons for this lack of responsiveness are largely unknown. Understanding how colorectal cancer cell-surface proteins interact with tumor-resident immune cells may offer an opportunity to identify molecules that, if targeted, may render tumor cells visible to immune cells. The present study used flow cytometry, fluorescent staining and immunoblotting to examine if inhibition of pathways activated by topoisomerase-targeting drugs may modulate the outcomes of treatment through effects on cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and by altering surface expression levels of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) or major histocompatibility complex protein I (MHC I). Inhibition of either NF-κB or DNA-damage response (DDR) potently enhanced cell death in combination with topoisomerase inhibition, while only NF-κB inhibition increased MHC I. PD-L1 upregulation was moderately affected by NF-κB or DDR inhibitors, while both topoisomerase inhibitors and DNA damaging agents may enhance the surface expression of MHC I molecules on colon cancer cells. Such enhanced expression of MHC I may be suppressed by inhibitors of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated or checkpoint kinase kinases. Additionally, adaptive tolerance to topoisomerase inhibition caused altered cell cycle response, and reduced the expression levels of both PD-L1 and MHC I on both microsatellite instable and stable colon cancer cell lines. Therefore, targeted modulation of DDR pathways, PD-L1, MHC I or other immune regulators in colon cancer cells may make them more visible to immune cells and enable rational combination of conventional therapy with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hassan
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
| | - Vu Trung
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Deepa Bedi
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
| | - Sage Shaddox
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
| | - Dilip Gunturu
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
| | - Clayton Yates
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
| | - Pran Datta
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA,Dr Pran Datta, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, WTI 520C, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA, E-mail:
| | - Temesgen Samuel
- Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA,Correspondence to: Dr Temesgen Samuel, Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Biomedical Research, 1200 W. Montgomery Road, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA, E-mail:
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Kwart D, He J, Srivatsan S, Lett C, Golubov J, Oswald EM, Poon P, Ye X, Waite J, Zaretsky AG, Haxhinasto S, Au-Yeung E, Gupta NT, Chiu J, Adler C, Cherravuru S, Malahias E, Negron N, Lanza K, Coppola A, Ni M, Song H, Wei Y, Atwal GS, Macdonald L, Oristian NS, Poueymirou W, Jankovic V, Fury M, Lowy I, Murphy AJ, Sleeman MA, Wang B, Skokos D. Cancer cell-derived type I interferons instruct tumor monocyte polarization. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111769. [PMID: 36476866 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocytes are highly plastic immune cells that modulate antitumor immunity. Therefore, identifying factors that regulate tumor monocyte functions is critical for developing effective immunotherapies. Here, we determine that endogenous cancer cell-derived type I interferons (IFNs) control monocyte functional polarization. Guided by single-cell transcriptomic profiling of human and mouse tumors, we devise a strategy to distinguish and separate immunostimulatory from immunosuppressive tumor monocytes by surface CD88 and Sca-1 expression. Leveraging this approach, we show that cGAS-STING-regulated cancer cell-derived IFNs polarize immunostimulatory monocytes associated with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy response in mice. We also demonstrate that immunosuppressive monocytes convert into immunostimulatory monocytes upon cancer cell-intrinsic cGAS-STING activation. Consistently, we find that human cancer cells can produce type I IFNs that polarize monocytes, and our immunostimulatory monocyte gene signature is enriched in patient tumors that respond to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Our work exposes a role for cancer cell-derived IFNs in licensing monocyte functions that influence immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Kwart
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Jing He
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Patrick Poon
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Xuan Ye
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Joyce Chiu
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Min Ni
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Hang Song
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Yi Wei
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Matthew Fury
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Israel Lowy
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | - Bei Wang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
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41
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Fabian KP, Kowalczyk JT, Reynolds ST, Hodge JW. Dying of Stress: Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, and Small-Molecule Inhibitors in Immunogenic Cell Death and Immunogenic Modulation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233826. [PMID: 36497086 PMCID: PMC9737874 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Innovative strategies to re-establish the immune-mediated destruction of malignant cells is paramount to the success of anti-cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that radiotherapy and select chemotherapeutic drugs and small molecule inhibitors induce immunogenic cell stress on tumors that results in improved immune recognition and targeting of the malignant cells. Through immunogenic cell death, which entails the release of antigens and danger signals, and immunogenic modulation, wherein the phenotype of stressed cells is altered to become more susceptible to immune attack, radiotherapies, chemotherapies, and small-molecule inhibitors exert immune-mediated anti-tumor responses. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of immunogenic cell death and immunogenic modulation and their relevance in the anti-tumor activity of radiotherapies, chemotherapies, and small-molecule inhibitors. Our aim is to feature the immunological aspects of conventional and targeted cancer therapies and highlight how these therapies may be compatible with emerging immunotherapy approaches.
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Koukourakis IM, Tiniakos D, Kouloulias V, Zygogianni A. The molecular basis of immuno-radiotherapy. Int J Radiat Biol 2022; 99:715-736. [PMID: 36383201 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2144960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiotherapy (RT) and immunotherapy are powerful anti-tumor treatment modalities. Experimental research has demonstrated an important interplay between the cytotoxic effects of RT and the immune system. This systematic review provides an overview of the basics of anti-tumor immunity and focuses on the mechanisms underlying the interplay between RT and immune anti-tumor response that set the molecular basis of immuno-RT. CONCLUSIONS An 'immunity acquired equilibrium' mimicking tumor dormancy can be achieved post-irradiation treatment, with the balance shifted toward tumor eradication or regrowth when immune cells' cytotoxic effects or cancer proliferation rate prevail, respectively. RT has both immunosuppressive and immune-enhancing properties. The latter effect is also known as radio-vaccination. Its mechanisms involve up- or down-regulation of membrane molecules, such as PD-L1, HLA-class-I, CD80/86, CD47, and Fas/CD95, that play a vital role in immune checkpoint pathways and increased cytokine expression (e.g. INFα,β,γ, IL1,2, and TNFα) by cancer or immune cells. Moreover, the interactions of radiation with the tumor microenvironment (fibroblasts, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, monocytes, and dendritic cells are also an important component of radio-vaccination. Thus, RT may have anti-tumor vaccine properties, whose sequels can be exploited by immunotherapy agents to treat different cancer subtypes effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis M. Koukourakis
- Radiation Oncology Unit, First Department of Radiology, Medical School, Aretaieion Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), Athens, Greece
| | - Dina Tiniakos
- Department of Pathology, Aretaieion University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Vassilis Kouloulias
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Second Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Rimini 1, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Zygogianni
- Radiation Oncology Unit, First Department of Radiology, Medical School, Aretaieion Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), Athens, Greece
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He MY, Yan FF, Cen KL, Shen P. Long survival after immunotherapy plus paclitaxel in advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A case report and review of literature. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:11889-11897. [PMID: 36405269 PMCID: PMC9669850 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i32.11889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is the second most common primary hepatic malignancy worldwide. However, currently available systemic therapies are of limited effectiveness, and the median overall survival of patients treated with first-line standard chemotherapy is less than one year. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been used to treat solid tumors. Clinical studies recently explored the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy for CCA. However, the clinical significance of predictive biomarkers for chemo-immunotherapy in CCA remains unclear. It is also worth exploring whether a combination of chemotherapeutic agents can increase the sensitivity of CCA immunotherapy.
CASE SUMMARY This study reports a case of advanced iCCA in which clinical complete remission had been achieved using a programmed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor and paclitaxel without known predictive biomarkers, but with BRCA1, KRAS, and NTRK3 mutations after rapid progression to first-line chemotherapy, and has remained in clinical complete remission for more than two years. This case suggests that chemo-immunotherapy is a potential therapeutic option for patients with iCCA and few known predictive biomarkers for immunotherapies as well as synergistic effect of the combination of paclitaxel and PD-1 monoclonal antibody.
CONCLUSION The combination of paclitaxel and PD-1 monoclonal antibodyr can be explored in patients with advanced iCCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ye He
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Fei-Fei Yan
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kai-Li Cen
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Peng Shen
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
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Liu S, Li J, Gu L, Wu K, Xing H. Nanoparticles for Chemoimmunotherapy Against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:5209-5227. [PMID: 36388877 PMCID: PMC9651025 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s388075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits high recurrence and mortality rates because of the lack of effective treatment targets. Surgery and traditional chemotherapy are the primary treatment options. Immunotherapy shows high potential for treating various cancers but exhibits limited efficacy against TNBC as a monotherapy. Chemoimmunotherapy has broad prospects for applications for cancer treatment conferred through the synergistic immunomodulatory and anti-tumor effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapeutic strategies. However, improving the efficacy of synergistic therapy and reducing the side effects of multiple drugs remain to be the main challenges in chemoimmunotherapy against TNBC. Nanocarriers can target both cancer and immune cells, promote drug accumulation, and show minimal toxicity, making them ideal delivery systems for chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic agents. In this review, we introduce the immunomodulatory effects of chemotherapy and combined mechanisms of chemoimmunotherapy, followed by a summary of nanoparticle-mediated chemoimmunotherapeutic strategies used for treating TNBC. This up-to-date synthesis of relevant findings in the field merits contemplation, while considering avenues of investigation to enable advances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyan Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Gu
- Breast Surgery, Jilin Province Tumor Hospital, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kunzhe Wu
- Department of Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Xing
- Department of Breast Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
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Chang F, Keam S, Hoang TS, Creaney J, Gill S, Nowak AK, Ebert M, Cook AM. Immune marker expression of irradiated mesothelioma cell lines. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1020493. [PMID: 36387076 PMCID: PMC9659742 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1020493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Though immune checkpoint inhibition has recently shown encouraging clinical efficacy in mesothelioma, most patients do not respond. Combining immune checkpoint inhibition with radiotherapy presents an attractive option for improving treatment responses owing to the various immunomodulatory effects of radiation on tumors. However, the ideal dosing and scheduling of combined treatment remains elusive, as it is poorly studied in mesothelioma. The present study characterizes the dose- and time-dependent changes to expression of various immune markers and cytokines important to antitumor responses following irradiation of mesothelioma cell lines. Methods Two murine (AB1, AE17) and two human (BYE, JU77) mesothelioma cell lines were treated with titrated gamma-radiation doses (1-8 Gy) and the expression of MHC class-I, MHC class-II and PD-L1 was measured over a series of post-irradiation timepoints (1-72 hours) by flow cytometry. Levels of cytokines IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-17A, IL-23, IL-27, MCP-1, IFN-β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and GM-CSF were measured by multiplex immunoassay in murine cell lines following 8 Gy radiation. Results Following irradiation, a dose-dependent upregulation of MHC-I and PD-L1 was observed on three of the four cell lines studied to varying extents. For all cell lines, the increase in marker expression was most pronounced 72 hours after radiation. At this timepoint, increases in levels of cytokines IFN-β, MCP-1 and IL-6 were observed following irradiation with 8 Gy in AB1 but not AE17, reflecting patterns in marker expression. Conclusions Overall, this study establishes the dose- and time-dependent changes in immune marker expression of commonly studied mesothelioma cell lines following radiation and will inform future study into optimal dosing and scheduling of combined radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition for mesothelioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Chang
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Synat Keam
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tracy Seymour Hoang
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jenette Creaney
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Suki Gill
- School of Physics, Mathematics and Computing, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anna K. Nowak
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Martin Ebert
- School of Physics, Mathematics and Computing, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Alistair M. Cook
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Institute for Respiratory Health, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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Marinello J, Arleo A, Russo M, Delcuratolo M, Ciccarelli F, Pommier Y, Capranico G. Topoisomerase I poison-triggered immune gene activation is markedly reduced in human small-cell lung cancers by impairment of the cGAS/STING pathway. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1214-1225. [PMID: 35794238 PMCID: PMC9519573 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01894-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current immunotherapy strategies have contrasting clinical results in human lung cancer patients as small-cell lung cancers (SCLC) often show features of immunological cold tumours. Topoisomerase 1 (TOP1) poisons are effective antitumor drugs with good efficacy against lung cancers. METHODS We used molecular, genetic and bioinformatic approaches to determine the mechanism of micronuclei formation induced by two TOP1 poisons in different human cancer cells, including SCLC cell lines. RESULTS TOP1 poisons stimulate similar levels of micronuclei in all tested cell lines but downstream effects can vary markedly. TOP1 poisons increase micronuclei levels with a mechanism involving R-loops as overexpression of RNaseH1 markedly reduces or abolishes both H2AX phosphorylation and micronuclei formation. TOP1 poison-induced micronuclei activate the cGAS/STING pathway leading to increased expression of immune genes in HeLa cells, but not in human SCLC cell lines, mainly due to lack of STING and/or cGAS expression. Moreover, the expression of STING and antigen-presenting machinery genes is generally downregulated in patient tumours of human lung cancer datasets. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our data reveal an immune signalling mechanism activated by TOP1 poisons, which is often impaired in human SCLC tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Marinello
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Andrea Arleo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Russo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Delcuratolo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Ciccarelli
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Yves Pommier
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Giovanni Capranico
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Miglietta G, Marinello J, Russo M, Capranico G. Ligands stimulating antitumour immunity as the next G-quadruplex challenge. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:180. [PMID: 36114513 PMCID: PMC9482198 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01649-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractG-quadruplex (G4) binders have been investigated to discover new anticancer drugs worldwide in past decades. As these ligands are generally not highly cytotoxic, the discovery rational was mainly based on increasing the cell-killing potency. Nevertheless, no G4 binder has been shown yet to be effective in cancer patients. Here, G4 binder activity at low dosages will be discussed as a critical feature to discover ligands with therapeutic effects in cancer patients. Specific effects of G4 binders al low doses have been reported to occur in cancer and normal cells. Among them, genome instability and the stimulation of cytoplasmic processes related to autophagy and innate immune response open to the use of G4 binders as immune-stimulating agents. Thus, we propose a new rational of drug discovery, which is not based on cytotoxic potency but rather on immune gene activation at non-cytotoxic dosage.
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Zhang Z, Yao S, Hu Y, Zhao X, Lee RJ. Application of lipid-based nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:967505. [PMID: 36003395 PMCID: PMC9393708 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.967505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is revolutionizing the clinical management of patients with different cancer types by sensitizing autologous or allogenic immune cells to the tumor microenvironment which eventually leads to tumor cell lysis without rapidly killing normal cells. Although immunotherapy has been widely demonstrated to be superior to chemotherapies, only a few populations of patients with specific cancer types respond to such treatment due to the failure of systemic immune activation. In addition, severe immune-related adverse events are rapidly observed when patients with very few responses are given higher doses of such therapies. Recent advances of lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) development have made it possible to deliver not only small molecules but also mRNAs to achieve systemic anticancer immunity through cytotoxic immune cell activation, checkpoint blockade, and chimeric antigen receptor cell therapies, etc. This review summarized recent development and applications of LNPs in anticancer immunotherapy. The diversity of lipid-based NPs would encapsulate payloads with different structures and molecular weights to achieve optimal antitumor immunity through multiple mechanisms of action. The discussion about the components of lipid-based NPs and their immunologic payloads in this review hopefully shed more light on the future direction of anticancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkun Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Siyu Yao
- Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Yingwen Hu
- The Whiteoak Group, Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Xiaobin Zhao
- The Whiteoak Group, Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Robert J. Lee
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Zhang L, Zhou C, Zhang S, Chen X, Liu J, Xu F, Liang W. Chemotherapy reinforces anti-tumor immune response and enhances clinical efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Oncol 2022; 12:939249. [PMID: 36003765 PMCID: PMC9393416 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.939249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
New evidence suggests that the clinical success of chemotherapy is not merely due to tumor cell toxicity but also arises from the restoration of immunosurveillance, which has been immensely neglected in previous preclinical and clinical researches. There is an urgent need for novel insights into molecular mechanisms and regimens that uplift the efficacy of immunotherapy since only a minority of cancer patients are responsive to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Recent findings on combination therapy of chemotherapy and ICIs have shown promising results. This strategy increases tumor recognition and elimination by the host immune system while reducing immunosuppression by the tumor microenvironment. Currently, several preclinical studies are investigating molecular mechanisms that give rise to the immunomodulation by chemotherapeutic agents and exploit them in combination therapy with ICIs in order to achieve a synergistic clinical activity. In this review, we summarize studies that exhibit the capacity of conventional chemotherapeutics to elicit anti-tumor immune responses, thereby facilitating anti-tumor activities of the ICIs. In conclusion, combining chemotherapeutics with ICIs appears to be a promising approach for improving cancer treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaoxing People’s Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Chao Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhoushan Guanghua Hospital, Zhoushan, China
| | - Songou Zhang
- College of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Xiaozhen Chen
- College of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai Oriental Hepatobiliary Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Wenqing Liang
- Medical Research Center, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, China
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Mosca M, Filippini DM, Tober N, Rojas FL, Rihawi K, Di Fabio F. Unexpected response to fourth-line paclitaxel in a patient with metastatic oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, immunotherapy-refractory: a case report. Anticancer Drugs 2022; 33:691-695. [PMID: 35324531 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including nivolumab and pembrolizumab have revolutionized the treatment landscape in recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, many patients do not respond to ICIs for reasons that remain largely unknown. For patients who progress on ICIs, chemotherapy and/or biologic therapies are the most widely used treatments based on the clinician's choice, with no defined sequence strategy. We report the experience of a patient with metastatic oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer p16 and human papillomavirus-DNA positive who received chemotherapy with weekly paclitaxel after progressing on nivolumab. Our patient presented a partial response to fourth line paclitaxel, which lasted more than 2 years, with an improvement of his quality of life too. These results support the hypothesis of synergism between immunotherapy and conventional chemotherapies. Even in the setting of immune-refractory disease, immunotherapy may affect tumor immune microenvironment thus leading to a synergistic effect with conventional chemotherapy and achieving unexpected results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirta Mosca
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
| | - Daria Maria Filippini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nastassja Tober
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
| | - Fabiola Lorena Rojas
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Karim Rihawi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Fabio
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola University Hospital
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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