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Taylor CA, Glover M, Maher J. CAR-T cell technologies that interact with the tumour microenvironment in solid tumours. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:849-871. [PMID: 39021098 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2380894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have emerged as a ground-breaking therapy for the treatment of hematological malignancies due to their capacity for rapid tumor-specific killing and long-lasting tumor immunity. However, the same success has not been observed in patients with solid tumors. Largely, this is due to the additional challenges imposed by safe and uniform target selection, inefficient CAR T-cell access to sites of disease and the presence of a hostile immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. AREAS COVERED Literature was reviewed on the PubMed database from the first description of a CAR by Kuwana, Kurosawa and colleagues in December 1987 through to the present day. This literature indicates that in order to tackle solid tumors, CAR T-cells can be further engineered with additional armoring strategies that facilitate trafficking to and infiltration of malignant lesions together with reversal of suppressive immune checkpoints that operate within solid tumor lesions. EXPERT OPINION In this review, we describe a number of recent advances in CAR T-cell technology that set out to combat the problems imposed by solid tumors including tumor recruitment, infiltration, immunosuppression, metabolic compromise, and hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - John Maher
- Leucid Bio Ltd, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK
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Babamohamadi M, Mohammadi N, Faryadi E, Haddadi M, Merati A, Ghobadinezhad F, Amirian R, Izadi Z, Hadjati J. Anti-CTLA-4 nanobody as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:17. [PMID: 38191571 PMCID: PMC10774412 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06391-x] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common diseases and causes of death worldwide. Since common treatment approaches do not yield acceptable results in many patients, developing innovative strategies for effective treatment is necessary. Immunotherapy is one of the promising approaches that has been highly regarded for preventing tumor recurrence and new metastases. Meanwhile, inhibiting immune checkpoints is one of the most attractive methods of cancer immunotherapy. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) is an essential immune molecule that plays a vital role in cell cycle modulation, regulation of T cell proliferation, and cytokine production. This molecule is classically expressed by stimulated T cells. Inhibition of overexpression of immune checkpoints such as CTLA-4 receptors has been confirmed as an effective strategy. In cancer immunotherapy, immune checkpoint-blocking drugs can be enhanced with nanobodies that target immune checkpoint molecules. Nanobodies are derived from the variable domain of heavy antibody chains. These small protein fragments have evolved entirely without a light chain and can be used as a powerful tool in imaging and treating diseases with their unique structure. They have a low molecular weight, which makes them smaller than conventional antibodies while still being able to bind to specific antigens. In addition to low molecular weight, specific binding to targets, resistance to temperature, pH, and enzymes, high ability to penetrate tumor tissues, and low toxicity make nanobodies an ideal approach to overcome the disadvantages of monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapy. In this article, while reviewing the cellular and molecular functions of CTLA-4, the structure and mechanisms of nanobodies' activity, and their delivery methods, we will explain the advantages and challenges of using nanobodies, emphasizing immunotherapy treatments based on anti-CTLA-4 nanobodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehregan Babamohamadi
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nastaran Mohammadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Faryadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Maryam Haddadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Merati
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Farbod Ghobadinezhad
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Roshanak Amirian
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zhila Izadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Majumder A. Evolving CAR-T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment: From Scientific Discovery to Cures. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:39. [PMID: 38201467 PMCID: PMC10777914 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010039] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has emerged as the most promising immunotherapy for cancer that typically uses patients' T cells and genetically engineered them to target cancer cells. Although recent improvements in CAR-T-cell therapy have shown remarkable success for treating hematological malignancies, the heterogeneity in tumor antigens and the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME) limits its efficacy in solid tumors. Despite the enormous efforts that have been made to make CAR-T-cell therapy more effective and have minimal side effects for treating hematological malignancies, more research needs to be conducted regarding its use in the clinic for treating various other types of cancer. The main concern for CAR-T-cell therapy is severe toxicities due to the cytokine release syndrome, whereas the other challenges are associated with complexity and immune-suppressing TME, tumor antigen heterogeneity, the difficulty of cell trafficking, CAR-T-cell exhaustion, and reduced cytotoxicity in the tumor site. This review discussed the latest discoveries in CAR-T-cell therapy strategies and combination therapies, as well as their effectiveness in different cancers. It also encompasses ongoing clinical trials; current challenges regarding the therapeutic use of CAR-T-cell therapy, especially for solid tumors; and evolving treatment strategies to improve the therapeutic application of CAR-T-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avisek Majumder
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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Chu GJ, Bailey CG, Nagarajah R, Sagnella SM, Adelstein S, Rasko JEJ. The 4-1BBζ costimulatory domain in chimeric antigen receptors enhances CD8+ T-cell functionality following T-cell receptor stimulation. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:327. [PMID: 38105188 PMCID: PMC10726568 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03171-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have revolutionized the treatment of CD19- and B-cell maturation antigen-positive haematological malignancies. However, the effect of a CAR construct on the function of T-cells stimulated via their endogenous T-cell receptors (TCRs) has yet to be comprehensively investigated. METHODS Experiments were performed to systematically assess TCR signalling and function in CAR T-cells using anti-mesothelin human CAR T-cells as a model system. CAR T-cells expressing the CD28 or 4-1BB costimulatory endodomains were manufactured and compared to both untransduced T-cells and CAR T-cells with a non-functional endodomain. These cell products were treated with staphylococcal enterotoxin B to stimulate the TCR, and in vitro functional assays were performed by flow cytometry. RESULTS Increased proliferation, CD69 expression and IFNγ production were identified in CD8+ 4-1BBζ CAR T-cells compared to control untransduced CD8+ T-cells. These functional differences were associated with higher levels of phosphorylated ZAP70 after stimulation. In addition, these functional differences were associated with a differing immunophenotype, with a more than two-fold increase in central memory cells in CD8+ 4-1BBζ CAR T-cell products. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that the 4-1BBζ CAR enhances CD8+ TCR-mediated function. This could be beneficial if the TCR targets epitopes on malignant tissues or infectious agents, but detrimental if the TCR targets autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard J Chu
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Charles G Bailey
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Cancer & Gene Regulation Laboratory Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Rajini Nagarajah
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharon M Sagnella
- Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Adelstein
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John E J Rasko
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Cell & Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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5
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Giardino Torchia ML, Moody G. DIALing-up the preclinical characterization of gene-modified adoptive cellular immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1264882. [PMID: 38090585 PMCID: PMC10713823 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1264882] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The preclinical characterization of gene modified adoptive cellular immunotherapy candidates for clinical development often requires the use of mouse models. Gene-modified lymphocytes (GML) incorporating chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) and T-cell receptors (TCR) into immune effector cells require in vivo characterization of biological activity, mechanism of action, and preclinical safety. Typically, this characterization involves the assessment of dose-dependent, on-target, on-tumor activity in severely immunocompromised mice. While suitable for the purpose of evaluating T cell-expressed transgene function in a living host, this approach falls short in translating cellular therapy efficacy, safety, and persistence from preclinical models to humans. To comprehensively characterize cell therapy products in mice, we have developed a framework called "DIAL". This framework aims to enable an end-to-end understanding of genetically engineered cellular immunotherapies in vivo, from infusion to tumor clearance and long-term immunosurveillance. The acronym DIAL stands for Distribution, Infiltration, Accumulation, and Longevity, compartmentalizing the systemic attributes of gene-modified cellular therapy and providing a platform for optimization with the ultimate goal of improving therapeutic efficacy. This review will discuss both existent and emerging examples of DIAL characterization in mouse models, as well as opportunities for future development and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gordon Moody
- Cell Therapy Unit, Oncology Research, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
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Agarwal S, Aznar MA, Rech AJ, Good CR, Kuramitsu S, Da T, Gohil M, Chen L, Hong SJA, Ravikumar P, Rennels AK, Salas-Mckee J, Kong W, Ruella M, Davis MM, Plesa G, Fraietta JA, Porter DL, Young RM, June CH. Deletion of the inhibitory co-receptor CTLA-4 enhances and invigorates chimeric antigen receptor T cells. Immunity 2023; 56:2388-2407.e9. [PMID: 37776850 PMCID: PMC10591801 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy targeting CD19 has achieved tremendous success treating B cell malignancies; however, some patients fail to respond due to poor autologous T cell fitness. To improve response rates, we investigated whether disruption of the co-inhibitory receptors CTLA4 or PD-1 could restore CART function. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated deletion of CTLA4 in preclinical models of leukemia and myeloma improved CAR T cell proliferation and anti-tumor efficacy. Importantly, this effect was specific to CTLA4 and not seen upon deletion of CTLA4 and/or PDCD1 in CAR T cells. Mechanistically, CTLA4 deficiency permitted unopposed CD28 signaling and maintenance of CAR expression on the T cell surface under conditions of high antigen load. In clinical studies, deletion of CTLA4 rescued the function of T cells from patients with leukemia that previously failed CAR T cell treatment. Thus, selective deletion of CTLA4 reinvigorates dysfunctional chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patient T cells, providing a strategy for increasing patient responses to CAR T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangya Agarwal
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - M Angela Aznar
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Andrew J Rech
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charly R Good
- Department Cell and Developmental Biology, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Shunichiro Kuramitsu
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tong Da
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mercy Gohil
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Linhui Chen
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Seok-Jae Albert Hong
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Pranali Ravikumar
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Austin K Rennels
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - January Salas-Mckee
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Weimin Kong
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marco Ruella
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Parker Institute of Cancer immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Lymphoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Megan M Davis
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Gabriela Plesa
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Joseph A Fraietta
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Parker Institute of Cancer immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David L Porter
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Regina M Young
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Parker Institute of Cancer immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Carl H June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Parker Institute of Cancer immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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7
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Zhang P, Zhang G, Wan X. Challenges and new technologies in adoptive cell therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:97. [PMID: 37596653 PMCID: PMC10439661 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01492-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapies (ACTs) have existed for decades. From the initial infusion of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes to the subsequent specific enhanced T cell receptor (TCR)-T and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies, many novel strategies for cancer treatment have been developed. Owing to its promising outcomes, CAR-T cell therapy has revolutionized the field of ACTs, particularly for hematologic malignancies. Despite these advances, CAR-T cell therapy still has limitations in both autologous and allogeneic settings, including practicality and toxicity issues. To overcome these challenges, researchers have focused on the application of CAR engineering technology to other types of immune cell engineering. Consequently, several new cell therapies based on CAR technology have been developed, including CAR-NK, CAR-macrophage, CAR-γδT, and CAR-NKT. In this review, we describe the development, advantages, and possible challenges of the aforementioned ACTs and discuss current strategies aimed at maximizing the therapeutic potential of ACTs. We also provide an overview of the various gene transduction strategies employed in immunotherapy given their importance in immune cell engineering. Furthermore, we discuss the possibility that strategies capable of creating a positive feedback immune circuit, as healthy immune systems do, could address the flaw of a single type of ACT, and thus serve as key players in future cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengchao Zhang
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Guizhong Zhang
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
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Gao D, Hong F, He A. The role of bone marrow microenvironment on CAR-T efficacy in haematologic malignancies. Scand J Immunol 2023; 98:e13273. [PMID: 39007933 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13273] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell therapy has emerged as a novel immunotherapy method. It has shown significant therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of haematological B cell malignancies. In particular, the CAR-T therapy targeting CD19 has yielded unprecedented efficacy for acute B-lymphocytic leukaemia (B-ALL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). In haematologic malignancies, tumour stem cells are more prone to stay in the regulatory bone marrow (BM) microenvironment (called niches), which provides a protective environment against immune attack. However, how the BM microenvironment affects the anti-tumour efficacy of CAR-T cells and its underlying mechanism is worthy of attention. In this review, we discuss the role of the BM microenvironment on the efficacy of CAR-T in haematological malignancies and propose corresponding strategies to enhance the anti-tumour activity of CAR-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Gao
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Hong
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Aili He
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnostics & Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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He M, Zhang D, Cao Y, Chi C, Zeng Z, Yang X, Yang G, Sharma K, Hu K, Enikeev M. Chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells therapy in prostate cancer: A comprehensive review on the current state and prospects. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19147. [PMID: 37664750 PMCID: PMC10469587 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19147] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent immunotherapy research has focused on chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells (CAR-Ts). CAR-T therapies have been clinically applied to manage hematologic malignancies with satisfactory effectiveness. However, the application of CAR-T immunotherapy in solid tumors remains challenging. Even so, current CAR-T immunotherapies for prostate cancer (PCa) have shown some promise, giving hope to patients with advanced metastatic PCa. This review aimed to elucidate different types of prostate tumor-associated antigen targets, such as prostate-specific membrane antigen and prostate stem cell antigen, and their effects. The current status of the corresponding targets in clinical research through their applications was also discussed. To improve the efficacy of CAR-T immunotherapy, we addressed the possible applications of multimodal immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and CAR-T combined therapies. The obstacles of solid tumors were concisely elaborated. Further studies should aim to discover novel potential targets and establish new models by overcoming the inherent barriers of solid tumors, such as tumor heterogeneity and the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingze He
- Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119435, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dongqi Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University (Lequn Branch), 130000, Changchun, China
| | - Yu Cao
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Changliang Chi
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University (Lequn Branch), 130000, Changchun, China
| | - Zitong Zeng
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Xinyi Yang
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Guodong Yang
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kritika Sharma
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kebang Hu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University (Lequn Branch), 130000, Changchun, China
| | - Mikhail Enikeev
- Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119435, Moscow, Russia
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10
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Lau E, Kwong G, Fowler TW, Sun BC, Donohoue PD, Davis RT, Bryan M, McCawley S, Clarke SC, Williams C, Banh L, Irby M, Edwards L, Storlie M, Kohrs B, Lilley GWJ, Smith SC, Gradia S, Fuller CK, Skoble J, Garner E, van Overbeek M, Kanner SB. Allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor-T cells with CRISPR-disrupted programmed death-1 checkpoint exhibit enhanced functional fitness. Cytotherapy 2023:S1465-3249(23)00091-9. [PMID: 37086241 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.03.011] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Therapeutic disruption of immune checkpoints has significantly advanced the armamentarium of approaches for treating cancer. The prominent role of the programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 axis for downregulating T cell function offers a tractable strategy for enhancing the disease-modifying impact of CAR-T cell therapy. METHODS To address checkpoint interference, primary human T cells were genome edited with a next-generation CRISPR-based platform (Cas9 chRDNA) by knockout of the PDCD1 gene encoding the PD-1 receptor. Site-specific insertion of a chimeric antigen receptor specific for CD19 into the T cell receptor alpha constant locus was implemented to drive cytotoxic activity. RESULTS These allogeneic CAR-T cells (CB-010) promoted longer survival of mice in a well-established orthotopic tumor xenograft model of a B cell malignancy compared with identically engineered CAR-T cells without a PDCD1 knockout. The persistence kinetics of CB-010 cells in hematologic tissues versus CAR-T cells without PDCD1 disruption were similar, suggesting the robust initial debulking of established tumor xenografts was due to enhanced functional fitness. By single-cell RNA-Seq analyses, CB-010 cells, when compared with identically engineered CAR-T cells without a PDCD1 knockout, exhibited fewer Treg cells, lower exhaustion phenotypes and reduced dysfunction signatures and had higher activation, glycolytic and oxidative phosphorylation signatures. Further, an enhancement of mitochondrial metabolic fitness was observed, including increased respiratory capacity, a hallmark of less differentiated T cells. CONCLUSIONS Genomic PD-1 checkpoint disruption in the context of allogeneic CAR-T cell therapy may provide a compelling option for treating B lymphoid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Lau
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | - George Kwong
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | - Bee-Chun Sun
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | - Ryan T Davis
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Mara Bryan
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lynda Banh
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Matthew Irby
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | | | - Bryan Kohrs
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | | | - Scott Gradia
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | - Justin Skoble
- Caribou Biosciences, Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
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11
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Al-Haideri M, Tondok SB, Safa SH, maleki AH, Rostami S, Jalil AT, Al-Gazally ME, Alsaikhan F, Rizaev JA, Mohammad TAM, Tahmasebi S. CAR-T cell combination therapy: the next revolution in cancer treatment. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:365. [DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02778-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIn recent decades, the advent of immune-based therapies, most notably Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. The promising results of numerous studies indicate that CAR-T cell therapy has had a remarkable ability and successful performance in treating blood cancers. However, the heterogeneity and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors have challenged the effectiveness of these anti-tumor fighters by creating various barriers. Despite the promising results of this therapeutic approach, including tumor degradation and patient improvement, there are some concerns about the efficacy and safety of the widespread use of this treatment in the clinic. Complex and suppressing tumor microenvironment, tumor antigen heterogeneity, the difficulty of cell trafficking, CAR-T cell exhaustion, and reduced cytotoxicity in the tumor site limit the applicability of CAR-T cell therapy and highlights the requiring to improve the performance of this treatment. With this in mind, in the last decade, many efforts have been made to use other treatments for cancer in combination with tuberculosis to increase the effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy, especially in solid tumors. The combination therapy results have promising consequences for tumor regression and better cancer control compared to single therapies. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehensively discuss different cancer treatment methods in combination with CAR-T cell therapy and their therapeutic outcomes, which can be a helpful perspective for improving cancer treatment in the near future.
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12
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Preliminary Analysis of Cervical Cancer Immunotherapy. Am J Clin Oncol 2022; 45:486-490. [PMID: 36301242 PMCID: PMC9624377 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecologically malignancies worldwide. Although vaccine and cervical cancer screening including human papillomavirus testing, cytology testing, and colposcopy have developed rapidly in recent years, effectively reducing cervical cancer mortality, cervical cancer remains a malignancy with higher female fatality rates worldwide and has a high risk for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The combination of platinum-paclitaxel and chemotherapy, possibly with the addition of bevacizumab, is currently the treatment of choice for advanced cervical cancer, but it only has remission purposes. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed for both locally advanced and metastatic cervical cancer. Here, we make a preliminary analysis of cervical cancer immunotherapy.
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13
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Li G, Wang H, Wu H, Chen J. B7-H3-targeted CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. Int Rev Immunol 2022; 41:625-637. [PMID: 35855615 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2022.2102619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Since B7-H3 is overexpressed or amplified in many types of solid tumors with a restricted expression in the normal tissues, it has been an emerging immunotherapeutic target for solid tumors. This review will focus on the structural designs of developing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeting B7-H3. The expression, receptor, and function of the B7-H3, as well as a short overview of B7-H3-targeted monoclonal antibody therapy, are discussed. Finally, a detailed summary of B7-H3 redirected CAR-T and CAR-NK cell approaches utilized in preclinical models and currently ongoing or completed clinical trials are presented. It has been demonstrated that B7-H3-targeted CAR-based cell therapies were safe in initial trials, but their efficacy was limited. Employing the local delivery routes, the introduction of novel modifications promoting CAR-T persistence, and combined treatment with other standard therapies could improve the efficacy of B7-H3-targeted CAR-T cell therapy against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangfei Li
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haopeng Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Chen
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Yeo D, Giardina C, Saxena P, Rasko JEJ. The next wave of cellular immunotherapies in pancreatic cancer. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 24:561-576. [PMID: 35229033 PMCID: PMC8857655 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive disease that is predicted to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide by 2030. The overall 5-year survival rate is around 10%. Pancreatic cancer typically presents late with locally advanced or metastatic disease, and there are limited effective treatments available. Cellular immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, has had significant success in treating hematological malignancies. However, CAR T cell therapy efficacy in pancreatic cancer has been limited. This review provides an overview of current and ongoing CAR T cell clinical studies of pancreatic cancer and the major challenges and strategies to improve CAR T cell efficacy. These strategies include arming CAR T cells; developing off-the-shelf allogeneic CAR T cells; using other immune CAR cells, like natural killer cells and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes; and combination therapy. Careful incorporation of preclinical models will enhance management of affected individuals, assisting incorporation of cellular immunotherapies. A multifaceted, personalized approach involving cellular immunotherapy treatment is required to improve pancreatic cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannel Yeo
- Li Ka Shing Cell & Gene Therapy Program, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Cell and Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Caroline Giardina
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Payal Saxena
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - John E J Rasko
- Li Ka Shing Cell & Gene Therapy Program, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Cell and Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia.,Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
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15
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Wu Y, Huang Z, Harrison R, Liu L, Zhu L, Situ Y, Wang Y. Engineering CAR T cells for enhanced efficacy and safety. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:011502. [PMID: 35071966 PMCID: PMC8769768 DOI: 10.1063/5.0073746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its success in treating hematologic malignancies, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy faces two major challenges which hinder its broader applications: the limited effectiveness against solid tumors and the nonspecific toxicities. To address these concerns, researchers have used synthetic biology approaches to develop optimization strategies. In this review, we discuss recent improvements on the CAR and other non-CAR molecules aimed to enhance CAR T cell efficacy and safety. We also highlight the development of different types of inducible CAR T cells that can be controlled by environmental cues and/or external stimuli. These advancements are bringing CAR T therapy one step closer to safer and wider applications, especially for solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Wu
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Ziliang Huang
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Reed Harrison
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Longwei Liu
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Linshan Zhu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Yinglin Situ
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Yingxiao Wang
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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16
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Rossetti R, Brand H, Lima SCG, Furtado IP, Silveira RM, Fantacini DMC, Covas DT, Souza LEB. Combination of genetically engineered T cells and immune checkpoint blockade for the treatment of cancer. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2022; 2:ltac005. [PMID: 35919489 PMCID: PMC9327125 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Immune checkpoint (IC) blockade using monoclonal antibodies is currently one of the most successful immunotherapeutic interventions to treat cancer. By reinvigorating antitumor exhausted T cells, this approach can lead to durable clinical responses. However, the majority of patients either does not respond or present a short-lived response to IC blockade, in part due to a scarcity of tumor-specific T cells within the tumor microenvironment. Adoptive transfer of T cells genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) or engineered T cell receptors (TCRs) provide the necessary tumor-specific immune cell population to target cancer cells. However, this therapy has been considerably ineffective against solid tumors in part due to IC-mediated immunosuppressive effects within tumor microenvironment. These limitations could be overcome by associating adoptive cell transfer of genetically engineered T cells and IC blockade. In this comprehensive review, we highlight the strategies and outcomes of preclinical and clinical attempts to disrupt IC signaling in adoptive T cell transfer against cancer. These strategies include combined administration of genetically engineered T cells and IC inhibitors, engineered T cells with intrinsic modifications to disrupt IC signaling and the design of CARs against IC molecules. The current landscape indicates that the synergy of the fast-paced refinements of gene-editing technologies and synthetic biology and the increased comprehension of IC signaling will certainly translate into novel and more effective immunotherapeutic approaches to treat patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Rossetti
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heloísa Brand
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sarah Caroline Gomes Lima
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Izadora Peter Furtado
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Daianne Maciely Carvalho Fantacini
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Biotechnology nucleus - Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Yang Y, McCloskey JE, Yang H, Puc J, Alcaina Y, Vedvyas Y, Gomez Gallegos AA, Ortiz-Sánchez E, de Stanchina E, Min IM, von Hofe E, Jin MM. Bispecific CAR T Cells against EpCAM and Inducible ICAM-1 Overcome Antigen Heterogeneity and Generate Superior Antitumor Responses. Cancer Immunol Res 2021; 9:1158-1174. [PMID: 34341066 PMCID: PMC8492509 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has demonstrated unparalleled responses in hematologic cancers, yet antigen escape and tumor relapse occur frequently. CAR T-cell therapy for patients with solid tumors faces even greater challenges due to the immunosuppressive tumor environment and antigen heterogeneity. Here, we developed a bispecific CAR to simultaneously target epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) to overcome antigen escape and to improve the durability of tumor responses. ICAM-1 is an adhesion molecule inducible by inflammatory cytokines and elevated in many types of tumors. Our study demonstrates superior efficacy of bispecific CAR T cells compared with CAR T cells targeting a single primary antigen. Bispecific CAR T achieved more durable antitumor responses in tumor models with either homogenous or heterogenous expression of EpCAM. We also showed that the activation of CAR T cells against EpCAM in tumors led to upregulation of ICAM-1, which rendered tumors more susceptible to ICAM-1 targeting by bispecific CAR T cells. Our strategy of additional targeting of ICAM-1 may have broad applications in augmenting the activity of CAR T cells against primary tumor antigens that are prone to antigen loss or downregulation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigenic Drift and Shift
- CRISPR-Cas Systems
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule/genetics
- Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/adverse effects
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1/genetics
- Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/metabolism
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Yang
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Jaclyn E McCloskey
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Huan Yang
- AffyImmune Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, Massachusetts
| | - Janusz Puc
- AffyImmune Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, Massachusetts
| | - Yago Alcaina
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Yogindra Vedvyas
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Angel A Gomez Gallegos
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
- Subdirección de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Elizabeth Ortiz-Sánchez
- Subdirección de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Irene M Min
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Eric von Hofe
- AffyImmune Therapeutics, Inc., Natick, Massachusetts
| | - Moonsoo M Jin
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.
- Antitumor Assessment Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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18
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Haslauer T, Greil R, Zaborsky N, Geisberger R. CAR T-Cell Therapy in Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168996. [PMID: 34445701 PMCID: PMC8396650 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells (CAR T-cells) are a promising therapeutic approach in treating hematological malignancies. CAR T-cells represent engineered autologous T-cells, expressing a synthetic CAR, targeting tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) independent of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) presentation. The most common target is CD19 on B-cells, predominantly used for the treatment of lymphoma and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), leading to approval of five different CAR T-cell therapies for clinical application. Despite encouraging clinical results, treatment of other hematological malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains difficult. In this review, we focus especially on CAR T-cell application in different hematological malignancies as well as strategies for overcoming CAR T-cell dysfunction and increasing their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Haslauer
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Haematology, Medical Oncology, Haemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (T.H.); (R.G.); (N.Z.)
- Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Richard Greil
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Haematology, Medical Oncology, Haemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (T.H.); (R.G.); (N.Z.)
| | - Nadja Zaborsky
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Haematology, Medical Oncology, Haemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (T.H.); (R.G.); (N.Z.)
| | - Roland Geisberger
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Haematology, Medical Oncology, Haemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Salzburg Cancer Research Institute-Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research (SCRI-LIMCR), Cancer Cluster Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (T.H.); (R.G.); (N.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-57255-25847
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19
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Glover M, Avraamides S, Maher J. How Can We Engineer CAR T Cells to Overcome Resistance? Biologics 2021; 15:175-198. [PMID: 34040345 PMCID: PMC8141613 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s252568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has achieved unrivalled success in the treatment of B cell and plasma cell malignancies, with five CAR T cell products now approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, CAR T cell therapies for solid tumours have not been nearly as successful, owing to several additional challenges. Here, we discuss mechanisms of tumour resistance in CAR T cell therapy and the emerging strategies that are under development to engineer CAR T cells to overcome resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Glover
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Stephanie Avraamides
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - John Maher
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK.,King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK.,Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, SE5 9RS, UK.,Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 2UD, UK
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20
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Raes L, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Braeckmans K. Non-viral transfection technologies for next-generation therapeutic T cell engineering. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 49:107760. [PMID: 33932532 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Genetically engineered T cells have sparked interest in advanced cancer treatment, reaching a milestone in 2017 with two FDA-approvals for CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapeutics. It is becoming clear that the next generation of CAR T cell therapies will demand more complex engineering strategies and combinations thereof, including the use of revolutionary gene editing approaches. To date, manufacturing of CAR T cells mostly relies on γ-retroviral or lentiviral vectors, but their use is associated with several drawbacks, including safety issues, high manufacturing cost and vector capacity constraints. Non-viral approaches, including membrane permeabilization and carrier-based techniques, have therefore gained a lot of interest to replace viral transductions in the manufacturing of T cell therapeutics. This review provides an in-depth discussion on the avid search for alternatives to viral vectors, discusses key considerations for T cell engineering technologies, and provides an overview of the emerging spectrum of non-viral transfection technologies for T cells. Strengths and weaknesses of each technology will be discussed in relation to T cell engineering. Altogether, this work emphasizes the potential of non-viral transfection approaches to advance the next-generation of genetically engineered T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens Raes
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kevin Braeckmans
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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21
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Hawkins ER, D'Souza RR, Klampatsa A. Armored CAR T-Cells: The Next Chapter in T-Cell Cancer Immunotherapy. Biologics 2021; 15:95-105. [PMID: 33883875 PMCID: PMC8053711 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s291768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy engineers T-cells to express a synthetic receptor which redirects effector function to the tumor, to improve efficacy and reduce toxicities associated with conventional treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This approach has proved effective in treating hematological malignancies; however, the same effects have not been observed in solid tumors. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) creates a significant barrier to solid tumor efficacy and reduces the anti-cancer activity of endogenous tumor-resident immune cells, enabling cancer progression. In recent years, researchers have attempted to enhance CAR T-cell function in the TME by engineering the cells to express various proteins alongside the CAR. Examples of this engineering include inducing CAR T-cells to secrete cytokines or express cytokine receptors to modulate the cytokine milieu of the TME. Alternatively, the CAR T-cell may secrete antibody-like proteins to target a range of tumor antigens. Collectively, these methods are termed armored CAR T-cell therapy, and in this review, we will discuss the range of armored CAR T-cell approaches which have been investigated to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Hawkins
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Reena R D'Souza
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Astero Klampatsa
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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22
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Kubo H, Yagyu S, Nakamura K, Yamashima K, Tomida A, Kikuchi K, Iehara T, Nakazawa Y, Hosoi H. Development of non-viral, ligand-dependent, EPHB4-specific chimeric antigen receptor T cells for treatment of rhabdomyosarcoma. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2021; 20:646-658. [PMID: 33816783 PMCID: PMC7985479 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ephrin type-B receptor 4 (EPHB4), expressed in tumors including rhabdomyosarcoma, is a suitable target for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells. Ligand-independent activation of EPHB4 causes cell proliferation and malignant transformation in rhabdomyosarcoma, whereas ligand-dependent stimulation of EPHB4 induces apoptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma. Therefore, we hypothesized that ligand-based, EPHB4-specific CAR-T cells may kill rhabdomyosarcoma cells without stimulating downstream cell proliferation mechanisms. We developed novel CAR-T cells by targeting EPHB4 via EPHRIN B2, a natural ligand of EPHB4. The generation of EPHB4-CAR-T cells via piggyBac (PB) transposon-based gene transfer resulted in sufficient T cell expansion and CAR positivity (78.5% ± 5.9%). PB-EPHB4-CAR-T cells displayed a dominant stem cell memory fraction (59.4% ± 7.2%) as well as low PD-1 expression (0.60% ± 0.21%) after 14 days of expansion. The PB-EPHB4-CAR-T cells inhibited EPHB4-positive tumor cells without activating cell proliferation downstream of EPHB4, even after multiple tumor re-challenges and suppressed tumor growth in xenograft-bearing mice. Therefore, PB-EPHB4-CAR-T cells possess a memory-rich fraction without early T cell exhaustion and show potential as promising therapeutic agents for treating rhabdomyosarcoma and other EPHB4-positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kubo
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Shigeki Yagyu
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Kayoko Nakamura
- Department of Pediatrics, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Kumiko Yamashima
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Akimasa Tomida
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Ken Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Tomoko Iehara
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Yozo Nakazawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.,Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Hajime Hosoi
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
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23
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Wagner J, Wickman E, DeRenzo C, Gottschalk S. CAR T Cell Therapy for Solid Tumors: Bright Future or Dark Reality? Mol Ther 2020; 28:2320-2339. [PMID: 32979309 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has garnered significant excitement due to its success for hematological malignancies in clinical studies leading to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of three CD19-targeted CAR T cell products. In contrast, the clinical experience with CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors and brain tumors has been less encouraging, with only a few patients achieving complete responses. Clinical and preclinical studies have identified multiple "roadblocks," including (1) a limited array of targetable antigens and heterogeneous antigen expression, (2) limited T cell fitness and survival before reaching tumor sites, (3) an inability of T cells to efficiently traffic to tumor sites and penetrate physical barriers, and (4) an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Herein, we review these challenges and discuss strategies that investigators have taken to improve the effector function of CAR T cells for the adoptive immunotherapy of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Wagner
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Elizabeth Wickman
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Christopher DeRenzo
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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24
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Liu D, Badeti S, Dotti G, Jiang JG, Wang H, Dermody J, Soteropoulos P, Streck D, Birge RB, Liu C. The Role of Immunological Synapse in Predicting the Efficacy of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) Immunotherapy. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:134. [PMID: 32843053 PMCID: PMC7446110 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00617-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) immunotherapy utilizes genetically-engineered immune cells that express a unique cell surface receptor that combines tumor antigen specificity with immune cell activation. In recent clinical trials, the adoptive transfer of CAR-modified immune cells (including CAR-T and CAR-NK cells) into patients has been remarkably successful in treating multiple refractory blood cancers. To improve safety and efficacy, and expand potential applicability to other cancer types, CARs with different target specificities and sequence modifications are being developed and tested by many laboratories. Despite the overall progress in CAR immunotherapy, conventional tools to design and evaluate the efficacy and safety of CAR immunotherapies can be inaccurate, time-consuming, costly, and labor-intensive. Furthermore, existing tools cannot always determine how responsive individual patients will be to a particular CAR immunotherapy. Recent work in our laboratory suggests that the quality of the immunological synapse (IS) can accurately predict CAR-modified cell efficacy (and toxicity) that can correlate with clinical outcomes. Here we review current efforts to develop a Synapse Predicts Efficacy (SPE) system for easy, rapid and cost-effective evaluation of CAR-modified immune cell immunotherapy. Ultimately, we hypothesize the conceptual basis and clinical application of SPE will serve as an important parameter in evaluating CAR immunotherapy and significantly advance precision cancer immunotherapy. Video abstract
Graphical abstract Graphic abstract for manuscript CCAS-D-20-00136 by Liu, D., et al., ‘The Role of Immunological Synapse in Predicting the Efficacy of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) Immunotherapy”. The various branches of evaluating cancer immunotherapy metaphorically represented as a Rubik’s cube. The development of a novel approach to predict the effectiveness of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-modified cells by quantifying the quality of CAR IS will introduce a new parameter to the rapidly expanding field of cancer immunotherapy. Currently, no single parameter can predict the clinical outcome or efficacy of a specific type of CAR-modified cell. IS quality will serve as a quantifiable measure to evaluate CAR products and can be used in conjunction with other conventional parameters to form a composite clinical predictor. Much like a Rubik’s cube has countless configurations, several methods and combinations of clinical metrics have arisen for evaluating the ability of a given immunotherapeutic strategy to treat cancer. The quality of IS depicting cancer immunotherapy is metaphorically expressed as a Rubik’s cube. Each face/color represents one aspect of cancer therapy. Each grid in one face indicates one factor within that aspect of cancer therapy. For example, the green color represents the tumor microenvironment, and one out of the nine grids in the green color indicates suppressor cells (suppressors in green). Changes in one factor may completely alter the entire strategy of cancer therapy. However, the quality of IS (illuminated center red grid) makes the effectiveness of CAR immunotherapy predictable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongfang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers University- New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA. .,Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA.
| | - Saiaditya Badeti
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers University- New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Gianpietro Dotti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jie-Gen Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers University- New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - He Wang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers University- New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - James Dermody
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Patricia Soteropoulos
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Deanna Streck
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Raymond B Birge
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers University- New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.,Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
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25
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Rana J, Biswas M. Regulatory T cell therapy: Current and future design perspectives. Cell Immunol 2020; 356:104193. [PMID: 32823038 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) maintain immune equilibrium by suppressing immune responses through various multistep contact dependent and independent mechanisms. Cellular therapy using polyclonal Tregs in transplantation and autoimmune diseases has shown promise in preclinical models and clinical trials. Although novel approaches have been developed to improve specificity and efficacy of antigen specific Treg based therapies, widespread application is currently restricted. To date, design-based approaches to improve the potency and persistence of engineered chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) Tregs are limited. Here, we describe currently available Treg based therapies, their advantages and limitations for implementation in clinical studies. We also examine various strategies for improving CAR T cell design that can potentially be applied to CAR Tregs, such as identifying co-stimulatory signalling domains that enhance suppressive ability, determining optimal scFv affinity/avidity, and co-expression of accessory molecules. Finally, we discuss the importance of tailoring CAR Treg design to suit the individual disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Rana
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Moanaro Biswas
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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26
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Gardner TJ, Bourne CM, Dacek MM, Kurtz K, Malviya M, Peraro L, Silberman PC, Vogt KC, Unti MJ, Brentjens R, Scheinberg D. Targeted Cellular Micropharmacies: Cells Engineered for Localized Drug Delivery. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2175. [PMID: 32764348 PMCID: PMC7465970 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of engineered cellular therapies, such as Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) CAR T and T cell receptor (TCR) engineered T cells, has shown great promise in the treatment of various cancers. These agents aggregate and expand exponentially at the tumor site, resulting in potent immune activation and tumor clearance. Moreover, the ability to elaborate these cells with therapeutic agents, such as antibodies, enzymes, and immunostimulatory molecules, presents an unprecedented opportunity to specifically modulate the tumor microenvironment through cell-mediated drug delivery. This unique pharmacology, combined with significant advances in synthetic biology and cell engineering, has established a new paradigm for cells as vectors for drug delivery. Targeted cellular micropharmacies (TCMs) are a revolutionary new class of living drugs, which we envision will play an important role in cancer medicine and beyond. Here, we review important advances and considerations underway in developing this promising advancement in biological therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Gardner
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
| | - Christopher M. Bourne
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Immunology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Megan M. Dacek
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Keifer Kurtz
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Manish Malviya
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
| | - Leila Peraro
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
| | - Pedro C. Silberman
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Kristen C. Vogt
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Mildred J. Unti
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Renier Brentjens
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Hospital, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - David Scheinberg
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA; (T.J.G.); (C.M.B.); (M.M.D.); (K.K.); (M.M.); (L.P.); (P.C.S.); (K.C.V.)
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Hospital, New York, NY 10065, USA;
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27
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Jayaraman J, Mellody MP, Hou AJ, Desai RP, Fung AW, Pham AHT, Chen YY, Zhao W. CAR-T design: Elements and their synergistic function. EBioMedicine 2020; 58:102931. [PMID: 32739874 PMCID: PMC7393540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells use re-engineered cell surface receptors to specifically bind to and lyse oncogenic cells. Two clinically approved CAR-T–cell therapies have significant clinical efficacy in treating CD19-positive B cell cancers. With widespread interest to deploy this immunotherapy to other cancers, there has been great research activity to design new CAR structures to increase the range of targeted cancers and anti-tumor efficacy. However, several obstacles must be addressed before CAR-T–cell therapies can be more widely deployed. These include limiting the frequency of lethal cytokine storms, enhancing T-cell persistence and signaling, and improving target antigen specificity. We provide a comprehensive review of recent research on CAR design and systematically evaluate design aspects of the four major modules of CAR structure: the ligand-binding, spacer, transmembrane, and cytoplasmic domains, elucidating design strategies and principles to guide future immunotherapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayapriya Jayaraman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine,CA,92697, United States
| | - Michael P Mellody
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine,CA,92697, United States
| | - Andrew J Hou
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
| | - Ruchi P Desai
- School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697
| | - Audrey W Fung
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697
| | - An Huynh Thuy Pham
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697
| | - Yvonne Y Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095; Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095
| | - Weian Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine,CA,92697, United States; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, United States; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, United States; Edwards Life Sciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, United States; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, United States.
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28
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Tian Y, Li Y, Shao Y, Zhang Y. Gene modification strategies for next-generation CAR T cells against solid cancers. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:54. [PMID: 32423475 PMCID: PMC7236186 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00890-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies have become the backbone of cancer treatment. Among them, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have demonstrated great success in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, CAR T therapy against solid tumors is less effective. Antigen targeting; an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME); and the infiltration, proliferation, and persistence of CAR T cells are the predominant barriers preventing the extension of CAR T therapy to solid tumors. To circumvent these obstacles, the next-generation CAR T cells will require more potent antitumor properties, which can be achieved by gene-editing technology. In this review, we summarize innovative strategies to enhance CAR T cell function by improving target identification, persistence, trafficking, and overcoming the suppressive TME. The construction of multi-target CAR T cells improves antigen recognition and reduces immune escape. Enhancing CAR T cell proliferation and persistence can be achieved by optimizing costimulatory signals and overexpressing cytokines. CAR T cells equipped with chemokines or chemokine receptors help overcome their poor homing to tumor sites. Strategies like knocking out immune checkpoint molecules, incorporating dominant negative receptors, and chimeric switch receptors can favor the depletion or reversal of negative T cell regulators in the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggui Tian
- Biotherapy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yilu Li
- Biotherapy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yupei Shao
- Biotherapy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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29
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Habib R, Nagrial A, Micklethwaite K, Gowrishankar K. Chimeric Antigen Receptors for the Tumour Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1263:117-143. [PMID: 32588326 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-44518-8_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has dramatically revolutionised cancer treatment. The FDA approval of two CAR-T cell products for otherwise incurable refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) and aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma has established this treatment as an effective immunotherapy option. The race for extending CAR-T therapy for various tumours is well and truly underway. However, response rates in solid organ cancers have been inadequate thus far, partly due to challenges posed by the tumour microenvironment (TME). The TME is a complex structure whose role is to subserve the persistence and proliferation of tumours as well as support their escape from immune surveillance. It presents several obstacles like inhibitory immune checkpoint proteins, immunosuppressive cells, cytokines, chemokines, stromal factors and adverse metabolic pathways. CAR structure and CAR-T therapies have evolved to overcome these obstacles, and we now have several novel CARs with improved anti-tumour activity demonstrated in xenograft models and in some clinical trials. This chapter provides a discussion of the evolution of CAR-T therapies to enable targeting specific aspects of the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Habib
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adnan Nagrial
- Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kenneth Micklethwaite
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Cellular Therapies Laboratory, Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Department of Haematology, Sydney Medical School, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kavitha Gowrishankar
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Engineering strategies to overcome the current roadblocks in CAR T cell therapy. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2019; 17:147-167. [PMID: 31848460 PMCID: PMC7223338 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-019-0297-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 728] [Impact Index Per Article: 145.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
T cells genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have proven — and impressive — therapeutic activity in patients with certain subtypes of B cell leukaemia or lymphoma, with promising efficacy also demonstrated in patients with multiple myeloma. Nevertheless, various barriers restrict the efficacy and/or prevent the widespread use of CAR T cell therapies in these patients as well as in those with other cancers, particularly solid tumours. Key challenges relating to CAR T cells include severe toxicities, restricted trafficking to, infiltration into and activation within tumours, suboptimal persistence in vivo, antigen escape and heterogeneity, and manufacturing issues. The evolution of CAR designs beyond the conventional structures will be necessary to address these limitations and to expand the use of CAR T cells to a wider range of malignancies. Investigators are addressing the current obstacles with a wide range of engineering strategies in order to improve the safety, efficacy and applicability of this therapeutic modality. In this Review, we discuss the innovative designs of novel CAR T cell products that are being developed to increase and expand the clinical benefits of these treatments in patients with diverse cancers. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, the first approved therapeutic approach with a genetic engineering component, holds substantial promise in the treatment of a range of cancers but is nevertheless limited by various challenges, including toxicities, intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms, and manufacturing issues. In this Review, the authors describe the innovative approaches to the engineering of CAR T cell products that are providing solutions to these challenges and therefore have the potential to considerably improve the safety and effectiveness of treatment. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have induced remarkable responses in patients with certain haematological malignancies, yet various barriers restrict the efficacy and/or prevent the widespread use of this treatment. Investigators are addressing these challenges with engineering strategies designed to improve the safety, efficacy and applicability of CAR T cell therapy. CARs have modular components, and therefore the optimal molecular design of the CAR can be achieved through many variations of the constituent protein domains. Toxicities currently associated with CAR T cell therapy can be mitigated using engineering strategies to make CAR T cells safer and that potentially broaden the range of tumour-associated antigens that can be targeted by overcoming on-target, off-tumour toxicities. CAR T cell efficacy can be enhanced by using engineering strategies to address the various challenges relating to the unique biology of diverse haematological and solid malignancies. Strategies to address the manufacturing challenges can lead to an improved CAR T cell product for all patients.
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31
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Fu M, Tang L. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Immunotherapy for Tumor: A Review of Patent Literatures. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2019; 14:60-69. [PMID: 30636615 DOI: 10.2174/1574892814666190111120908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy, as an innovative
method for tumor immunotherapy, acquires unprecedented clinical outcomes. Genetic modification not
only provides T cells with the antigen-binding function but also endows T cells with better
immunological functions both in solid and hematological cancer. However, the CAR T cell therapy is
not perfect because of several reasons, such as tumor immune microenvironment, and autologous
limiting factors of CAR T cells. Moreover, the safety of CAR T cells should be improved. OBJECTIVE Recently many patents and publications have reported the importance of CAR T cell immunotherapy. Based on the patents about CAR T cell immunotherapy, we conclude some methods for
designing the CAR which can provide useful information to readers. METHODS This review presents recent patents and publications, summarizes some specific antigens for
oncotherapy from patents and enumerate some approaches to treatment of immunosuppression and
reinforcing the immune response of CAR T cells. We also sum up some strategies for improving the
safety of CAR T cell immunotherapy. RESULTS CAR T cell immunotherapy as a neotype cellular immunotherapy has been proved effective in
oncotherapy and authorized by the FDA. Improvements in CAR designing have enhanced the
functions of CAR T cells. CONCLUSION This review, summarizing antigens and approaches to overcome defects of CAR T cell
immunotherapy from patents and publications, might contribute to a broad readership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manxue Fu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, P.R. China. Address: No.174 Shazhengjie, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, P.R. China. Address: No.174 Shazhengjie, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
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Hallaj S, Meshkini F, Chaleshtari MG, Ghorbani A, Namdar A, Soleimanpour H, Jadidi-niaragh F. Conjugated CAR T cell one step beyond conventional CAR T cell for a promising cancer immunotherapy. Cell Immunol 2019; 345:103963. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2019.103963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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33
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Mardiana S, Solomon BJ, Darcy PK, Beavis PA. Supercharging adoptive T cell therapy to overcome solid tumor–induced immunosuppression. Sci Transl Med 2019; 11:11/495/eaaw2293. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaw2293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The development of new cancer immunotherapies including checkpoint blockade and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. CAR T cells have shown tremendous success in certain B cell malignancies, resulting in U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of this approach for certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. However, response rates against solid cancer have been less successful to date. Approaches to modulate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment including targeting checkpoint pathways, modulating metabolic pathways, and generating cytokine-producing T cells have led to considerable enhancement of adoptive T cell immunotherapy, first in preclinical models and now in patients. This review provides a discussion of the most recent strategies to enhance the efficacy of CAR T cell antitumor responses in solid cancers.
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Simon B, Harrer DC, Schuler-Thurner B, Schaft N, Schuler G, Dörrie J, Uslu U. The siRNA-mediated downregulation of PD-1 alone or simultaneously with CTLA-4 shows enhanced in vitro CAR-T-cell functionality for further clinical development towards the potential use in immunotherapy of melanoma. Exp Dermatol 2019; 27:769-778. [PMID: 29704887 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have been used successfully for cancer immunotherapy. While substantial tumor regression was observed in leukaemia and lymphoma, CAR therapy of solid tumors needs further improvement. A major obstacle to the efficiency of engineered T cells is posed by triggering of inhibitory receptors, for example programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), leading to an impaired antitumor activity. To boost CAR-T-cell function, we co-electroporated T cells with both, mRNA encoding a CAR specific for chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4) and small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to downregulate PD-1 (siPD-1) and CTLA-4 (siCTLA-4). Flow cytometry revealed that activation-induced upregulation of both PD-1 and CTLA-4 was suppressed when compared to CAR-T cells electroporated with negative control siRNA. The siRNA transfection showed no influence on CAR expression of engineered T cells. Functionality assays were performed using PD-L1- and CD80-transfected melanoma cells endogenously expressing CSPG4. CAR-T cells transfected with siPD-1 alone showed improvement in cytokine secretion. Additionally, CAR-T cells transfected with either siPD-1 alone or together with siCTLA-4 exhibited a significantly increased cytotoxicity. No or only little effects were observed when CAR-T cells were co-transfected with siCTLA-4 only. Taken together, it is feasible to optimize CAR-T cells by co-transfection of CAR-encoding mRNA and siRNAs to downregulate inhibitory receptors. Our in vitro data indicate an improvement of the functionality of these CAR-T cells, suggesting that this strategy could represent a novel method to enhance CAR-T-cell immunotherapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Simon
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dennis C Harrer
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ugur Uslu
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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35
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Weinkove R, George P, Dasyam N, McLellan AD. Selecting costimulatory domains for chimeric antigen receptors: functional and clinical considerations. Clin Transl Immunology 2019; 8:e1049. [PMID: 31110702 PMCID: PMC6511336 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Costimulatory signals are required to achieve robust chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell expansion, function, persistence and antitumor activity. These can be provided by incorporating intracellular signalling domains from one or more T cell costimulatory molecules, such as CD28 or 4-1BB, into the CAR. The selection and positioning of costimulatory domains within a CAR construct influence CAR T cell function and fate, and clinical experience of autologous anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapies suggests that costimulatory domains have differential impacts on CAR T cell kinetics, cytotoxic function and potentially safety profile. The clinical impacts of combining costimulatory domains and of alternative costimulatory domains are not yet clearly established, and may be construct- and disease-specific. The aim of this review is to summarise the function and effect of established and emerging costimulatory domains and their combinations within CAR T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Weinkove
- Cancer Immunotherapy Programme Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand.,Wellington Blood & Cancer Centre Capital & Coast District Health Board Wellington New Zealand.,Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine University of Otago Wellington Wellington New Zealand
| | - Philip George
- Cancer Immunotherapy Programme Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand.,Wellington Blood & Cancer Centre Capital & Coast District Health Board Wellington New Zealand
| | - Nathaniel Dasyam
- Cancer Immunotherapy Programme Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand
| | - Alexander D McLellan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
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Hull CM, Maher J. Novel approaches to promote CAR T-cell function in solid tumors. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2019; 19:789-799. [DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2019.1614164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Hull
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - John Maher
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Division of Cancer Studies, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London UK
- Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Eastbourne, UK
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Srivastava S, Riddell SR. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy: Challenges to Bench-to-Bedside Efficacy. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 200:459-468. [PMID: 29311388 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1701155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy with T cells genetically modified to express chimeric Ag receptors (CARs) that target tumor-associated molecules have impressive efficacy in hematological malignancies. The field has now embraced the challenge of applying this approach to treat common epithelial malignancies, which make up the majority of cancer cases but evade immunologic attack by a variety of subversive mechanisms. In this study, we review the principles that have guided CAR T cell design and the extraordinary clinical results being achieved in B cell malignancies targeting CD19 with a single infusion of engineered T cells. This success has raised expectations that CAR T cells can be applied to solid tumors, but numerous obstacles must be overcome to achieve the success observed in hematologic cancers. Potential solutions driven by advances in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, T cell biology, and improved tumor models that recapitulate the obstacles in human tumors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Srivastava
- Program in Immunology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Stanley R Riddell
- Program in Immunology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109
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Kloss CC, Lee J, Zhang A, Chen F, Melenhorst JJ, Lacey SF, Maus MV, Fraietta JA, Zhao Y, June CH. Dominant-Negative TGF-β Receptor Enhances PSMA-Targeted Human CAR T Cell Proliferation And Augments Prostate Cancer Eradication. Mol Ther 2018; 26:1855-1866. [PMID: 29807781 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 392] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer has an impressive ability to evolve multiple processes to evade therapies. While immunotherapies and vaccines have shown great promise, particularly in certain solid tumors such as prostate cancer, they have been met with resistance from tumors that use a multitude of mechanisms of immunosuppression to limit effectiveness. Prostate cancer, in particular, secretes transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) as a means to inhibit immunity while allowing for cancer progression. Blocking TGF-β signaling in T cells increases their ability to infiltrate, proliferate, and mediate antitumor responses in prostate cancer models. We tested whether the potency of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells directed to prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) could be enhanced by the co-expression of a dominant-negative TGF-βRII (dnTGF-βRII). Upon expression of the dominant-negative TGF-βRII in CAR T cells, we observed increased proliferation of these lymphocytes, enhanced cytokine secretion, resistance to exhaustion, long-term in vivo persistence, and the induction of tumor eradication in aggressive human prostate cancer mouse models. Based on our observations, we initiated a phase I clinical trial to assess these CAR T cells as a novel approach for patients with relapsed and refractory metastatic prostate cancer (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03089203).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher C Kloss
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Smilow Center for Translational Research, 3400 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA.
| | - Jihyun Lee
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Aaron Zhang
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Fang Chen
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Jan Joseph Melenhorst
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Simon F Lacey
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Marcela V Maus
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Joseph A Fraietta
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Yangbing Zhao
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA
| | - Carl H June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA; Smilow Center for Translational Research, 3400 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104-5156, USA.
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Li J, Li W, Huang K, Zhang Y, Kupfer G, Zhao Q. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) immunotherapy for solid tumors: lessons learned and strategies for moving forward. J Hematol Oncol 2018; 11:22. [PMID: 29433552 PMCID: PMC5809840 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-018-0568-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy for the treatment CD19-positive B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. While CAR-T has achieved remarkable success in the treatment of hematopoietic malignancies, whether it can benefit solid tumor patients to the same extent is still uncertain. Even though hundreds of clinical trials are undergoing exploring a variety of tumor-associated antigens (TAA), no such antigen with comparable properties like CD19 has yet been identified regarding solid tumors CAR-T immunotherapy. Inefficient T cell trafficking, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, suboptimal antigen recognition specificity, and lack of safety control are currently considered as the main obstacles in solid tumor CAR-T therapy. Here, we reviewed the solid tumor CAR-T clinical trials, emphasizing the studies with published results. We further discussed the challenges that CAR-T is facing for solid tumor treatment and proposed potential strategies to improve the efficacy of CAR-T as promising immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Li
- School of Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Kejia Huang
- Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610052, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610052, China
| | - Gary Kupfer
- Section of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Qi Zhao
- College of Pharmacy and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China.
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Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells are redirected T-cells that can recognize cancer antigens in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent fashion. A typical CAR is comprised of two main functional domains: an extracellular antigen recognition domain, called a single-chain variable fragment (scFv), and an intracellular signaling domain. Based on the number of intracellular signaling molecules, CARs are categorized into four generations. CAR T-cell therapy has become a promising treatment for hematologic malignancies. However, results of its clinical trials on solid tumors have not been encouraging. Here, we described the structure of CARs and summarized the clinical trials of CD19-targeted CAR T-cells. The side effects, safety management, challenges, and future prospects of CAR T-cells for the treatment of cancer, particularly for solid tumors, were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niaz Muhammad
- a Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences , Shaanxi Normal University , Xi'an , P.R. China
| | - Qinwen Mao
- b Department of Pathology , Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Haibin Xia
- a Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences , Shaanxi Normal University , Xi'an , P.R. China
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Incorporation of Immune Checkpoint Blockade into Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells (CAR-Ts): Combination or Built-In CAR-T. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020340. [PMID: 29364163 PMCID: PMC5855562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy represents the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved gene therapy and these engineered cells function with unprecedented efficacy in the treatment of refractory CD19 positive hematologic malignancies. CAR translation to solid tumors is also being actively investigated; however, efficacy to date has been variable due to tumor-evolved mechanisms that inhibit local immune cell activity. To bolster the potency of CAR-T cells, modulation of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment with immune-checkpoint blockade is a promising strategy. The impact of this approach on hematological malignancies is in its infancy, and in this review we discuss CAR-T cells and their synergy with immune-checkpoint blockade.
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42
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Sadelain M, Rivière I, Riddell S. Therapeutic T cell engineering. Nature 2017; 545:423-431. [PMID: 28541315 DOI: 10.1038/nature22395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 552] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetically engineered T cells are powerful new medicines, offering hope for curative responses in patients with cancer. Chimaeric antigen receptors (CARs) are a class of synthetic receptors that reprogram lymphocyte specificity and function. CARs targeting CD19 have demonstrated remarkable potency in B cell malignancies. Engineered T cells are applicable in principle to many cancers, pending further progress to identify suitable target antigens, overcome immunosuppressive tumour microenvironments, reduce toxicities, and prevent antigen escape. Advances in the selection of optimal T cells, genetic engineering, and cell manufacturing are poised to broaden T-cell-based therapies and foster new applications in infectious diseases and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Sadelain
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Isabelle Rivière
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Stanley Riddell
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
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Berglund S, Magalhaes I, Gaballa A, Vanherberghen B, Uhlin M. Advances in umbilical cord blood cell therapy: the present and the future. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 17:691-699. [PMID: 28379044 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2017.1316713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Umbilical cord blood (UCB), previously seen as medical waste, is increasingly recognized as a valuable source of cells for therapeutic use. The best-known application is in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), where UCB has become an increasingly important graft source in the 28 years since the first umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) was performed. Recently, UCB has been increasingly investigated as a putative source for adoptive cell therapy. Areas covered: This review covers the advances in umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) to overcome the limitation regarding cellular dose, immunological naivety and additional cell doses such as DLI. It also provides an overview regarding the progress in adoptive cellular therapy using UCB. Expert opinion: UCB has been established as an important source of stem cells for HSCT. Successful strategies to overcome the limitations of UCBT, such as the limited cell numbers and naivety of the cells, are being developed, including novel methods to perform in vitro expansion of progenitor cells, and to improve their homing to the bone marrow. Promising early clinical trials of adoptive therapies with UCB cells, including non-immunological cells, are currently performed for viral infections, malignant diseases and in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Berglund
- a Centre for Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Isabelle Magalhaes
- b Department of oncology and Pathology , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Ahmed Gaballa
- c Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Bruno Vanherberghen
- d Department of Applied Physics , Royal Institute of Technology , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Michael Uhlin
- c Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden.,d Department of Applied Physics , Royal Institute of Technology , Stockholm , Sweden.,e Department of Immunology/Transfusion Medicine , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
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Lohmueller J, Finn OJ. Current modalities in cancer immunotherapy: Immunomodulatory antibodies, CARs and vaccines. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 178:31-47. [PMID: 28322974 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Successes of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy in curing patients with otherwise lethal cancers have validated immunotherapy as a treatment for cancer and have inspired excitement for its broader potential. Most promising is the ability of each approach to eliminate bulky and advanced-stage cancers and to achieve durable cures. Despite this success, to date only a subset of cancer patients and a limited number of cancer types respond to these therapies. A major goal now is to expand the types of cancer and number of patients who can be successfully treated. To this end a multitude of immunotherapies are being tested clinically in new combinations, and many new immunomodulatory antibodies and CARs are in development. A third major immunotherapeutic approach with renewed interest is cancer vaccines. While over 20years of therapeutic cancer vaccine trials have met with limited success, these studies have laid the groundwork for the use of therapeutic vaccines in combination with other immunotherapies or alone as prophylactic cancer vaccines. Prophylactic vaccines are now poised to revolutionize cancer prevention as they have done for the prevention of infectious diseases. In this review we examine three major cancer immunotherapy modalities: immunomodulatory antibodies, CAR T cell therapy and vaccines. For each we describe the current state of the art and outline major challenges and research directions forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Lohmueller
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Immunology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olivera J Finn
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Immunology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cells: New Approaches to Improve Their Efficacy and Reduce Toxicity. Cancer J 2016; 21:475-9. [PMID: 26588679 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The durable remission of B-cell leukemia and lymphoma following chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has brought this new form of adoptive immunotherapy to center stage with the expectation that CAR T-cell therapy may provide similar efficacy in other hematologic and solid cancers. Herein, we review recent advances in the areas of CAR design that improve CAR T-cell proliferation, engraftment, and efficacy, as well as clinical application strategies that are designed to improve clinical efficacy while reducing the risk of toxicity and broaden patient access to this promising form of cancer immunotherapy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are synthetic immunoreceptors, which can redirect T cells to selectively kill tumor cells, and as 'living drugs' have the potential to generate long-term antitumor immunity. Given their recent clinical successes for the treatment of refractory B-cell malignancies, there is a strong push toward advancing this immunotherapy to other hematological diseases and solid cancers. Here, we summarize the current state of the field, highlighting key variables for the optimal application of CAR T cells for cancer immunotherapy. RECENT FINDINGS Advances in CAR T-cell therapy have highlighted intrinsic CAR design and T-cell manufacturing methods as critical components for maximal therapeutic success. Similarly, addressing the unique extrinsic challenges of each tumor type, including overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and tumor heterogeneity, and mitigating potential toxicity, will dominate the next wave of CAR T-cell development. SUMMARY CAR T-cell therapeutic optimization, including intrinsic and extrinsic factors, is critical to developing effective CAR T-cell therapies for cancer. The excitement of CAR T-cell immunotherapy has just begun, and will continue with new insights revealed in laboratory research and in ongoing clinical investigations.
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CAR models: next-generation CAR modifications for enhanced T-cell function. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2016; 3:16014. [PMID: 27231717 PMCID: PMC4871190 DOI: 10.1038/mto.2016.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells genetically targeted with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) to B-cell malignancies have demonstrated tremendous clinical outcomes. With the proof in principle for CAR T cells as a therapy for B-cell malignancies being established, current and future research is being focused on adapting CAR technology to other cancers, as well as enhancing its efficacy and/or safety. The modular nature of the CAR, extracellular antigen-binding domain fused to a transmembrane domain and intracellular T-cell signaling domains, allows for optimization by replacement of the various components. These modifications are creating a whole new class of therapeutic CARs. In this review, we discuss the recent major advances in CAR design and how these modifications will impact its clinical application.
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Liu X, Ranganathan R, Jiang S, Fang C, Sun J, Kim S, Newick K, Lo A, June CH, Zhao Y, Moon EK. A Chimeric Switch-Receptor Targeting PD1 Augments the Efficacy of Second-Generation CAR T Cells in Advanced Solid Tumors. Cancer Res 2016; 76:1578-90. [PMID: 26979791 PMCID: PMC4800826 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-2524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 389] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified adoptive T-cell therapy has been successfully applied to the treatment of hematologic malignancies, but faces many challenges in solid tumors. One major obstacle is the immune-suppressive effects induced in both naturally occurring and genetically modified tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) by inhibitory receptors (IR), namely PD1. We hypothesized that interfering with PD1 signaling would augment CAR T-cell activity against solid tumors. To address this possibility, we introduced a genetically engineered switch receptor construct, comprising the truncated extracellular domain of PD1 and the transmembrane and cytoplasmic signaling domains of CD28, into CAR T cells. We tested the effect of this supplement, "PD1CD28," on human CAR T cells targeting aggressive models of human solid tumors expressing relevant tumor antigens. Treatment of mice bearing large, established solid tumors with PD1CD28 CAR T cells led to significant regression in tumor volume due to enhanced CAR TIL infiltrate, decreased susceptibility to tumor-induced hypofunction, and attenuation of IR expression compared with treatments with CAR T cells alone or PD1 antibodies. Taken together, our findings suggest that the application of PD1CD28 to boost CAR T-cell activity is efficacious against solid tumors via a variety of mechanisms, prompting clinical investigation of this potentially promising treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Liu
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Raghuveer Ranganathan
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Shuguang Jiang
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Chongyun Fang
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jing Sun
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Soyeon Kim
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kheng Newick
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Albert Lo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Carl H. June
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Yangbing Zhao
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Edmund K. Moon
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Golubovskaya V, Wu L. Different Subsets of T Cells, Memory, Effector Functions, and CAR-T Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2016; 8:cancers8030036. [PMID: 26999211 PMCID: PMC4810120 DOI: 10.3390/cancers8030036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 341] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review is focused on different subsets of T cells: CD4 and CD8, memory and effector functions, and their role in CAR-T therapy--a cellular adoptive immunotherapy with T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptor. The CAR-T cells recognize tumor antigens and induce cytotoxic activities against tumor cells. Recently, differences in T cell functions and the role of memory and effector T cells were shown to be important in CAR-T cell immunotherapy. The CD4⁺ subsets (Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, Th22, Treg, and Tfh) and CD8⁺ memory and effector subsets differ in extra-cellular (CD25, CD45RO, CD45RA, CCR-7, L-Selectin [CD62L], etc.); intracellular markers (FOXP3); epigenetic and genetic programs; and metabolic pathways (catabolic or anabolic); and these differences can be modulated to improve CAR-T therapy. In addition, CD4⁺ Treg cells suppress the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy, and different approaches to overcome this suppression are discussed in this review. Thus, next-generation CAR-T immunotherapy can be improved, based on our knowledge of T cell subsets functions, differentiation, proliferation, and signaling pathways to generate more active CAR-T cells against tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vita Golubovskaya
- Promab Biotechnologies, 2600 Hilltop Drive, Suite 320, Richmond, CA 94803, USA.
| | - Lijun Wu
- Promab Biotechnologies, 2600 Hilltop Drive, Suite 320, Richmond, CA 94803, USA.
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Phase 1 clinical trial demonstrated that MUC1 positive metastatic seminal vesicle cancer can be effectively eradicated by modified Anti-MUC1 chimeric antigen receptor transduced T cells. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2016; 59:386-97. [PMID: 26961900 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-016-5024-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent progress in chimeric antigen receptor-modified T-cell (CAR-T cell) technology in cancer therapy is extremely promising, especially in the treatment of patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In contrast, due to the hostile immunosuppressive microenvironment of a solid tumor, CAR T-cell accessibility and survival continue to pose a considerable challenge, which leads to their limited therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we constructed two anti-MUC1 CAR-T cell lines. One set of CAR-T cells contained SM3 single chain variable fragment (scFv) sequence specifically targeting the MUC1 antigen and co-expressing interleukin (IL) 12 (named SM3-CAR). The other CAR-T cell line carried the SM3 scFv sequence modified to improve its binding to MUC1 antigen (named pSM3-CAR) but did not co-express IL-12. When those two types of CAR-T cells were injected intratumorally into two independent metastatic lesions of the same MUC1(+) seminal vesicle cancer patient as part of an interventional treatment strategy, the initial results indicated no side-effects of the MUC1 targeting CAR-T cell approach, and patient serum cytokines responses were positive. Further evaluation showed that pSM3-CAR effectively caused tumor necrosis, providing new options for improved CAR-T therapy in solid tumors.
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