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Fink A, Ben Hur D, Wani NA, Cohen H, Segev-Zarko LA, Arnusch CJ, Shai Y. Development of Nontoxic Peptides for Lipopolysaccharide Neutralization and Sepsis Treatment. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1795-1806. [PMID: 38898940 PMCID: PMC11184611 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00033] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Host defense peptides (HDPs), also named antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), are increasingly being recognized for serving multiple functions in protecting the host from infection and disease. Previous studies have shown that various HDPs can also neutralize lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin), as well as lipoteichoic acid (LTA), inducing macrophage activation. However, antimicrobial activity is usually accompanied by systemic toxicity which makes it difficult to use HDPs as antiendotoxin agents. Here we report that key parameters can uncouple these two functions yielding nontoxic peptides with potent LPS and LTA neutralization activities in vitro and in animal models. The data reveal that peptide length, the number, and the placement of positive charges are important parameters involved in LPS neutralization. Crucially, the peptide exhibited a separation between its membrane-disrupting and antimicrobial properties, effectively decoupling them from its ability to neutralize LPS. This essential distinction prevented systemic toxicity and led to the peptide's complete rescue of mice suffering from severe septic shock in two distinct models. Strong binding to LPS, changes in structure, and oligomerization state upon LPS binding were important factors that determined the activity of the peptides. In the face of the increasing threat of septic shock worldwide, it is crucial to grasp how we can neutralize harmful substances like LPS. This knowledge is vital for creating nontoxic treatments for sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avner Fink
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
- MilliporeSigma
Life Science, Kiryat
Hamada 13, 9777613 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Daniel Ben Hur
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Naiem Ahmad Wani
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Hadar Cohen
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Li-Av Segev-Zarko
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Christopher J. Arnusch
- Department
of Desalination and Water Treatment, Zuckerberg Institute for Water
Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede-Boqer Campus 8499000, Israel
| | - Yechiel Shai
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Nijhawan HP, Prabhakar B, Misra A, Yadav KS. Fragmented antibodies in non-small cell lung cancer: A novel nano-engineered delivery system for detection and treatment of cancer. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103701. [PMID: 37453459 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103701] [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: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a long history of defying traditional cytotoxic treatment. Significant advancements in biotechnology, cancer biology, and immunotherapy have provided new insights that have altered the landscape for the management of NSCLC, clearing the way for a new era of pharmaceuticals in the form of monoclonal antibodies and their fragments. Antibody fragments are superior to monoclonal antibodies because of their small size, which allows them to penetrate cells and tissues effectively. When combined with functional nanocarriers, antibody fragments can target cancer cells while offering improved efficacy and fewer off-target effects. We discuss current topics of interest including anti-CTLA-4 mAbs, Talactoferrin alfa (TLF), and the CYFRA 21-1 biomarker, with brief insights into its novel detection system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh P Nijhawan
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS Deemed to be University, Vile-Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Bala Prabhakar
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS Deemed to be University, Vile-Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Ambikanandan Misra
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS Deemed to be University, Vile-Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Khushwant S Yadav
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS Deemed to be University, Vile-Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India.
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3
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Proteins and their functionalization for finding therapeutic avenues in cancer: Current status and future prospective. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188862. [PMID: 36791920 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite the remarkable advancement in the health care sector, cancer remains the second most fatal disease globally. The existing conventional cancer treatments primarily include chemotherapy, which has been associated with little to severe side effects, and radiotherapy, which is usually expensive. To overcome these problems, target-specific nanocarriers have been explored for delivering chemo drugs. However, recent reports on using a few proteins having anticancer activity and further use of them as drug carriers have generated tremendous attention for furthering the research towards cancer therapy. Biomolecules, especially proteins, have emerged as suitable alternatives in cancer treatment due to multiple favourable properties including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and structural flexibility for easy surface functionalization. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have reported that various proteins derived from animal, plant, and bacterial species, demonstrated strong cytotoxic and antiproliferative properties against malignant cells in native and their different structural conformations. Moreover, surface tunable properties of these proteins help to bind a range of anticancer drugs and target ligands, thus making them efficient delivery agents in cancer therapy. Here, we discuss various proteins obtained from common exogenous sources and how they transform into effective anticancer agents. We also comprehensively discuss the tumor-killing mechanisms of different dietary proteins such as bovine α-lactalbumin, hen egg-white lysozyme, and their conjugates. We also articulate how protein nanostructures can be used as carriers for delivering cancer drugs and theranostics, and strategies to be adopted for improving their in vivo delivery and targeting. We further discuss the FDA-approved protein-based anticancer formulations along with those in different phases of clinical trials.
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Kaczyńska K, Jampolska M, Wojciechowski P, Sulejczak D, Andrzejewski K, Zając D. Potential of Lactoferrin in the Treatment of Lung Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:192. [PMID: 37259341 PMCID: PMC9960651 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein that exhibits a variety of properties, such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer, that can be used to treat numerous diseases. Lung diseases continue to be the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Many of the therapies currently used to treat these diseases have limited efficacy or are associated with side effects. Therefore, there is a constant pursuit for new drugs and therapies, and LF is frequently considered a therapeutic agent and/or adjunct to drug-based therapies for the treatment of lung diseases. This article focuses on a review of the existing and most up-to-date literature on the contribution of the beneficial effects of LF on the treatment of lung diseases, including asthma, viral infections, cystic fibrosis, or lung cancer, among others. Although in vitro and in vivo studies indicate significant potency of LF in the treatment of the listed diseases, only in the case of respiratory tract infections do human studies seem to confirm them by demonstrating the effectiveness of LF in reducing episodes of illness and shortening the recovery period. For lung cancer, COVID-19 and sepsis, the reports are conflicting, and for other diseases, there is a paucity of human studies conclusively confirming the beneficial effects of LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kaczyńska
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Jampolska
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Wojciechowski
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Sulejczak
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kryspin Andrzejewski
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Zając
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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Boutsikou E, Domvri K, Hardavella G, Tsiouda D, Zarogoulidis K, Kontakiotis T. Tumour necrosis factor, interferon-gamma and interleukins as predictive markers of antiprogrammed cell-death protein-1 treatment in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a pragmatic approach in clinical practice. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2018; 10:1758835918768238. [PMID: 29662549 PMCID: PMC5894896 DOI: 10.1177/1758835918768238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The emergence of novel antiprogrammed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) has revolutionized the therapeutic landscape of this disease. Although overall survival (OS) has improved in the first- and second-line therapy settings for advanced NSCLC, the benefit is not universal. In a climate of global scrutiny for healthcare costs and potential for toxicities related to immunotherapy, appropriate patient selection is crucial. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential prognostic and predictive biomarkers interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and a panel of interleukins (ILs) in the peripheral blood, and assess any correlation with response to anti-PD-1 inhibition, progression-free survival and OS in NSCLC patients. Methods: We prospectively studied 26 NSCLC patients that received immunotherapy (either pembrolizumab or nivolumab). IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-12 were analyzed by flow cytometry at the time of diagnosis and at 3 months after initiation of anti-PD-1 inhibition. Results: Increased cytokine values (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-8) at the time of diagnosis and at 3 months after initiation of treatment were significantly correlated with improved response to immunotherapy and prolonged OS. There was no correlation between cytokine levels and programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression. Conclusions: Increased IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-12 levels resulted in better response to NSCLC anti-PD-1 inhibition and longer survival, and this could potentially play an important role in selecting patients that would benefit from anti-PD-1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efimia Boutsikou
- Pulmonary Department - Oncology Unit, 'G. Papanikolaou' Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Platonos 1G, Pefka, 57010, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Domvri
- Pulmonary Department, 'G. Papanikolaou' Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Dora Tsiouda
- Pulmonary Department, 'Theageneio' Anticancer Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Zarogoulidis
- Pulmonary Department, 'G. Papanikolaou' Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Theodoros Kontakiotis
- Pulmonary Department, 'G. Papanikolaou' Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Seabloom DE, Galbraith AR, Haynes AM, Fujita AS, Antonides JD, Wuertz BR, Steele VE, Ondrey FG, Wattenberg LW. Effects of talactoferrin alpha on lung adenoma prevention in A/J mice June 2, 2016. Am J Transl Res 2018; 10:875-880. [PMID: 29636877 PMCID: PMC5883128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Talactoferrin alpha is a promising non-toxic solid tumor cancer agent that met with success in the treatment of early-stage lung cancer clinically in humans. It is well-tolerated, anddendritic cell-stimulation is a target. We tested the efficacy of this agent in a chemoprevention setting in A/J mice. All groups received benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) by oral gavage in three doses of 3 mg/kg body weight over the course of one week. Animals were then randomized into 5 groups of 24 mice per group based on weight. Experimental diets oftalactoferrin alpha (Agennix Inc., Indianapolis, IN), at 1.40% and 0.42% of the diet, were started one week or eight weeks after the last dose of B[a]P. Animals were continued on the feeding schedule, weighed weekly, and monitored for toxicity. The study was concluded 16 weeks after administration of B[a]P. The agent was well-tolerated for the duration of the experiment and there was no observable toxicity or weight change. The average number of adenomas per animal was 14.04 ± 0.93 (N=24) in the control group, 18.14 ± 1.45 (N=22) in the early low-dose group, 16.70 ± 1.30 (N=23) in the late low-dose group, 15.09 ± 1.41 (N=23) in the early high-dose group and 14.46 ± 1.21 (N=24) in the late high-dose group. We conclude talactoferrinalpha is well-tolerated. However, it did not inhibit carcinogenesis at a dose of 1.4% or 0.42% of the diet, which equates to human doses of 1.12 g/kg/day or 0.336 g/kg/day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna E Seabloom
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Art R Galbraith
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Anna M Haynes
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Alisha S Fujita
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Jenny D Antonides
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Beverly R Wuertz
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Vernon E Steele
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute9609 Medical Center Drive, Room 5E454, Rockville, MD 20850, America
| | - Frank G Ondrey
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
| | - Lee W Wattenberg
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMMC396, 420 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, America
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7
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Lievense L, Aerts J, Hegmans J. Immune Therapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 893:59-90. [PMID: 26667339 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-24223-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer has long been considered an unsuitable target for immunotherapy due to its proposed immunoresistant properties. However, recent evidence has shown that anti-tumor immune responses can occur in lung cancer patients, paving the way for lung cancer as a novel target for immunotherapy. In order to take full advantage of the potential of immunotherapy, research is focusing on the presence and function of various immunological cell types in the tumor microenvironment. Immune cells which facilitate or inhibit antitumor responses have been identified and their prognostic value in lung cancer has been established. Knowledge regarding these pro- and anti-tumor immune cells and their mechanisms of action has facilitated the identification of numerous potential immunotherapeutic strategies and opportunities for intervention. A plethora of immunotherapeutic approaches is currently being developed and studied in lung cancer patients and phase 3 clinical trials are ongoing. Many different immunotherapies have shown promising clinical effects in patients with limited and advanced stage lung cancer, however, future years will have to tell whether immunotherapy will earn its place in the standard treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lysanne Lievense
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Joachim Aerts
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Hegmans
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands.
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8
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Aerts JG, Lievense LA, Hoogsteden HC, Hegmans JP. Immunotherapy prospects in the treatment of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2015; 3:34-45. [PMID: 25806279 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2218-6751.2013.11.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A very recent finding is the role of immune activation in cancer. The assumption that stimulating the patient's immune system to attack tumors is a valuable treatment option in malignant diseases has gained more acceptance. However the high immunosuppressive effects caused by the tumor limits this beneficial effect. There is a delicate balance between immunoactivation and immunosuppression in a patient. Especially in non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the role of immunosuppressive cells hampering immune activation is high. But also in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and mesothelioma immunosuppressive activity is high. This is suggested to be related to the type of tumor, advanced stage of the disease, and the tumor load. In this review, we provide an overview of the progress and challenges in the immunotherapeutic approaches in lung cancer. We conclude with the concept that immunotherapy in thoracic malignancies must be tailored made to the balance of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim G Aerts
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands ; 2 Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amphia Hospital Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Lysanne A Lievense
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands ; 2 Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amphia Hospital Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Henk C Hoogsteden
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands ; 2 Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amphia Hospital Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P Hegmans
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands ; 2 Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amphia Hospital Breda, The Netherlands
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Seetharamu N. The state of the art in non-small cell lung cancer immunotherapy. Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2014; 26:26-35. [PMID: 24952755 DOI: 10.1053/j.semtcvs.2014.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Once considered an ineffective modality in lung cancer, immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising therapeutic strategies for this lethal disease. The past few years have seen a plethora of clinical trials evaluating various immunotherapeutic approaches in lung cancer. This article discusses the current status of immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer with a review of completed studies and ongoing trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagashree Seetharamu
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York..
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10
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Riess JW, Bhattacharya N, Blenman KRM, Neal JW, Hwang G, Pultar P, San-Pedro Salcedo M, Engleman E, Lee PP, Malik R, Wakelee HA. Immune correlates of talactoferrin alfa in biopsied tumor of relapsed/refractory metastatic non-small cell lung cancer patients. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2014; 36:182-6. [PMID: 24494587 DOI: 10.3109/08923973.2013.864671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Talactoferrin alfa (TLF) is a unique recombinant form of human lactoferrin. The hypothesized mechanism of action involves TLF binding to the intestinal endothelium inducing dendritic cell maturation and cytokine release leading to infiltration of tumor with monocytes and T-lymphocytes and inhibition of tumor growth. OBJECTIVE Based on promising phase II trial results, this correlative study was undertaken to examine immune mechanism of action of TLF in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. METHODS Talactoferrin was administered orally at 1.5 g bid weeks 1-12 with 2 weeks off on a 14-week cycle. Enrolled patients had a pathologic diagnosis of NSCLC previously treated with at least two lines of systemic treatment. Patients had core biopsy of tumor before initiation of talactoferrin and at week 7 on TLF. Flow cytometry and quantitative immunohistochemistry for immune correlates were performed on the biopsied specimens. RESULTS Four patients with metastatic NSCLC were enrolled. The trial was halted pre-maturely in light of negative phase III trial results. For the two patients who had repeat on-treatment tumor biopsies, a consistent increase in monocytes as a percentage of total immune cells was observed. Otherwise, no clear trend of increase or decrease was observed in any other immune cell parameters compared to matched patient pre-treatment biopsies. CONCLUSION Repeat biopsies for immune correlates by flow cytometry and quantitative immunohistochemistry in NSCLC patients are feasible. In the few patients sampled before trial closure, increased monocytes as a total percentage of the immune cell population within tumor was observed in response to TLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Riess
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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11
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Abstract
Despite the several advances in the last few years into treatment of advanced lung cancer, the 5-year survival remains extremely low. New therapeutic strategies are currently under investigation, and immunotherapy seems to offer a promising treatment alternative. In the last decade, therapeutic cancer vaccines in lung cancer have been rather disappointing, mainly due to the lack of efficient predictive biomarkers. A better refinement of the patient population that might respond to treatment might finally lead to a success story. For the first time, the immune checkpoint inhibitors are demonstrating sustained antitumor response and improved survival and they may be the first immunotherapeutics available for patients with lung cancer.
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12
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Xu ZQ, Flavin MT, Flavin J. Combating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2013; 23:163-82. [PMID: 24215473 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.848853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, especially those caused by Gram-negative pathogens, have emerged as one of the world's greatest health threats. The development of novel antibiotics to treat MDR Gram-negative bacteria has, however, stagnated over the last half century. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of recent R&D activities in the search for novel antibiotics against MDR Gram-negatives. It provides emphasis in three key areas. First, the article looks at new analogs of existing antibiotic molecules such as β-lactams, tetracyclines, and aminoglycoside as well as agents against novel bacterial targets such as aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase and peptide deformylase. Second, it also examines alternative strategies to conventional approaches including cationic antimicrobial peptides, siderophores, efflux pump inhibitors, therapeutic antibodies, and renewed interest in abandoned treatments or those with limited indications. Third, the authors aim to provide an update on the current clinical development status for each drug candidate. EXPERT OPINION The traditional analog approach is insufficient to meet the formidable challenge brought forth by MDR superbugs. With the disappointing results of the genomics approach for delivering novel targets and drug candidates, alternative strategies to permeate the bacterial cell membrane, enhance influx, disrupt efflux, and target specific pathogens via therapeutic antibodies are attractive and promising. Coupled with incentivized business models, governmental policies, and a clarified regulatory pathway, it is hoped that the antibiotic pipeline will be filled with an effective armamentarium to safeguard global health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Qi Xu
- SynChem, Inc. , 1400 Chase Avenue, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 , USA +1 847 298 2436 ;
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13
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Spadaro M, Montone M, Arigoni M, Cantarella D, Forni G, Pericle F, Pascolo S, Calogero RA, Cavallo F. Recombinant human lactoferrin induces human and mouse dendritic cell maturation via Toll-like receptors 2 and 4. FASEB J 2013; 28:416-29. [PMID: 24088817 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-229591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Lactoferrin, a key component of innate immunity, is a cationic monomeric 80-kDa glycoprotein of the transferrin superfamily. Recombinant human lactoferrin, known as talactoferrin (TLF), induces a distinct functional maturation program in human dendritic cells (DCs) derived from peripheral blood monocytes. However, the receptors and molecular mechanisms involved in this induction have not been fully determined. By exploiting genome-wide transcription profiling of immature DCs, TNF-α- and IL-1β-matured DCs (m-DCs), and TLF-matured DCs (TLF-DCs), we have detected a set of transcripts specific for m-DCs and one specific for TLF-DCs. Functional network reconstruction highlighted, as expected, the association of m-DC maturation with IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-κB, whereas TLF-DC maturation was associated with ERK and NF-κB. This involvement of ERK and NF-κB transduction factors suggests direct involvement of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in TLF-induced maturation. We have used MyD88 inhibition and siRNA silencing TLRs on human DCs and mouse TLR-2-knockout cells, to show that TLF triggers the maturation of both human and mouse DCs through TLR-2 and TLR-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Spadaro
- 1Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, via Nizza 52, Torino 10126, Italy.
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Abstract
Iron metabolism has been intensively examined over the last decade and there are many new players in this field which are worth to be introduced. Since its discovery many studies confirmed role of liver hormone hepcidin as key regulator of iron metabolism and pointed out liver as the central organ of system iron homeostasis. Liver cells receive multiple signals related to iron balance and respond by transcriptional regulation of hepcidin expression. This liver hormone is negative regulator of iron metabolism that represses iron efflux from macrophages, hepatocytes and enterocytes by its binding to iron export protein ferroportin. Ferroportin degradation leads to cellular iron retention and decreased iron availability. At level of a cell IRE/IRP (iron responsive elements/iron responsive proteins) system allows tight regulation of iron assimilation that prevents an excess of free intracellular iron which could lead to oxidative stress and damage of DNA, proteins and lipid membranes by ROS (reactive oxygen species). At the same time IRE/IRP system provides sufficient iron in order to meet the metabolic needs. Recently a significant progress in understanding of iron metabolism has been made and new molecular participants have been characterized. Article gives an overview of the current understanding of iron metabolism: absorption, distribution, cellular uptake, release, and storage. We also discuss mechanisms underlying systemic and cellular iron regulation with emphasis on central regulatory hormone hepcidin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leida Tandara
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnosis, University Hospital Center Split, Split, Croatia.
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Decoster L, Wauters I, Vansteenkiste JF. Vaccination therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer: review of agents in phase III development. Ann Oncol 2011; 23:1387-93. [PMID: 22156658 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdr564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The historical results of cancer vaccination for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were disappointing. In the current decade, however, new insights in the interaction between tumours and the immune system have led to the development of immunotherapy as a fundamentally new concept for the treatment of NSCLC. Modern NSCLC vaccine strategies rely on better identification of antigenic targets, addition of strong immunoadjuvants, and use of more efficient delivery systems. These treatments have convincingly demonstrated to elicit potent immune responses and have shown promising efficacy signals and excellent tolerability in phase II randomised studies. This-together with recent positive phase III data in indications other than NSCLC-has helped to establish the proof of principle for cancer vaccination. In NSCLC, ongoing phase III trials are investigating this approach in different treatment settings: the Melanoma AntiGEn A3 vaccine in resected early-stage NSCLC, the L-BLP25 vaccine in locally advanced NSCLC after chemoradiotherapy, and belagenpumatucel-L, the epidermal growth factor and the TG4010 vaccine in advanced stage, either as an adjunct to chemotherapy or as maintenance after completion of chemotherapy. Mode of action, development, available clinical data, and currently ongoing phase III studies are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Decoster
- Leuven Lung Cancer Group, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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Harris F, Dennison SR, Singh J, Phoenix DA. On the selectivity and efficacy of defense peptides with respect to cancer cells. Med Res Rev 2011; 33:190-234. [PMID: 21922503 DOI: 10.1002/med.20252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Here, we review potential determinants of the anticancer efficacy of innate immune peptides (ACPs) for cancer cells. These determinants include membrane-based factors, such as receptors, phosphatidylserine, sialic acid residues, and sulfated glycans, and peptide-based factors, such as residue composition, sequence length, net charge, hydrophobic arc size, hydrophobicity, and amphiphilicity. Each of these factors may contribute to the anticancer action of ACPs, but no single factor(s) makes an overriding contribution to their overall selectivity and toxicity. Differences between the anticancer actions of ACPs seem to relate to different levels of interplay between these peptide and membrane-based factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Harris
- School of Forensic and Investigative Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
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