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Zhou SQ, Wan P, Zhang S, Ren Y, Li HT, Ke QH. Programmed cell death 1 inhibitor sintilimab plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. World J Clin Oncol 2024; 15:859-866. [PMID: 39071470 PMCID: PMC11271726 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v15.i7.859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, a malignancy that arises in the cells of the pancreas, is a devastating disease with unclear etiology and often poor prognosis. Locally advanced pancreatic cancer, a stage where the tumor has grown significantly but has not yet spread to distant organs, presents unique challenges in treatment. This article aims to discuss the current strategies, challenges, and future directions in the management of locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma (LAPC). AIM To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor sintilimab plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy for LAPC. METHODS Eligible patients had LAPC, an Eastern cooperative oncology group performance status of 0 or 1, adequate organ and marrow functions, and no prior anticancer therapy. In the observation group, participants received intravenous sintilimab 200 mg once every 3 wk, and received concurrent chemoradiotherapy (concurrent conventional fractionated radiotherapy with doses planning target volume 50.4 Gy and gross tumor volume 60 Gy in 28 fractions and oral S-1 40 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1-14 of a 21-d cycle and intravenous gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of a 21-d cycle for eight cycles until disease progression, death, or unacceptable toxicity). In the control group, participants only received concurrent chemoradiotherapy. From April 2020 to November 2021, 64 participants were finally enrolled with 34 in the observation group and 30 in the control group. RESULTS Thirty-four patients completed the scheduled course of chemoradiotherapy, while 32 (94.1%) received sintilimab plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy with 2 patients discontinuing sintilimab in the observation group. Thirty patients completed the scheduled course of chemoradiotherapy in the control group. Based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors guidelines, the analysis of the observation group revealed that a partial response was observed in 11 patients (32.4%), stable disease was evident in 19 patients (55.9%), and 4 patients (11.8%) experienced progressive disease; a partial response was observed in 6 (20.0%) patients, stable disease in 18 (60%), and progressive disease in 6 (20%) in the control group. The major toxic effects were leukopenia and nausea. The incidence of severe adverse events (AEs) (grade 3 or 4) was 26.5% (9/34) in the observation group and 23.3% (7/30) in the control group. There were no treatment-related deaths. The observation group demonstrated a significantly longer median overall survival (22.1 mo compared to 15.8 mo) (P < 0.05) and progression-free survival (12.2 mo vs 10.1 mo) (P < 0.05) in comparison to the control group. The occurrence of severe AEs did not exhibit a statistically significant difference between the observation group and the control group (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Sintilimab plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy was effective and safe for LAPC patients, and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Qiong Zhou
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Peng Wan
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yuan Ren
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hong-Tao Li
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Qing-Hua Ke
- Department of Chemoradiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
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Niwa H, Nakamura T, Kushiya H, Kuraya T, Inoko K, Inagaki A, Suzuki T, Sasaki K, Tsuchikawa T, Hiraoka K, Shichinohe T, Hatanaka Y, Jolly DJ, Kasahara N, Hirano S. Therapeutic activity of retroviral replicating vector-mediated gene therapy in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody in a murine pancreatic cancer model. Cancer Gene Ther 2024:10.1038/s41417-024-00810-7. [PMID: 39039195 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00810-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Toca 511, a tumor-selective retroviral replicating vector encoding the yeast cytosine deaminase (yCD) gene, exerts direct antitumor effects through intratumoral prodrug 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) conversion to active drug 5-fluorouracil by yCD, and has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in preclinical and clinical trials of various cancers. Toca 511/5-FC treatment may also induce antitumor immunity. Here, we first examined antitumor immune responses activated by Toca 511/5-FC treatment in an immunocompetent murine pancreatic cancer model. We then evaluated the therapeutic effects achieved in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibody. In the bilateral subcutaneous tumor model, as compared with the control group, enhanced CD8+ T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity and increased T-cell infiltration in Toca 511-untransduced contralateral tumors were observed. Furthermore, the expression levels of T-cell co-inhibitory receptors on CD8+ T-cells increased during treatment. In the bilateral subcutaneous tumor model, combination therapy showed significantly stronger tumor growth inhibition than that achieved with either monotherapy. In an orthotopic tumor and peritoneal dissemination model, the combination therapy resulted in complete regression in both transduced orthotopic tumors and untransduced peritoneal dissemination. Thus, Toca 511/5-FC treatment induced a systemic antitumor immune response, and the combination therapy could be a promising clinical strategy for treating metastatic pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Niwa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Toru Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kushiya
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tomotaka Kuraya
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazuho Inoko
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akihito Inagaki
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tomohiro Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Katsunori Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tsuchikawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kei Hiraoka
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, NHO Hakodate National Hospital, Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Shichinohe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yutaka Hatanaka
- Center for Development of Advanced Diagnostics (C-DAD), Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Douglas J Jolly
- Tocagen Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- Abintus Bio Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Noriyuki Kasahara
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Satoshi Hirano
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery II, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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3
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Sarfraz Z, Sarfraz A, Farooq MD, Khalid M, Cheema K, Javad F, Khan T, Pervaiz Z, Sarfraz M, Jaan A, Sadiq S, Anwar J. The Current Landscape of Clinical Trials for Immunotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer: A State-of-the-Art Review. J Gastrointest Cancer 2024:10.1007/s12029-024-01078-8. [PMID: 38976079 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-024-01078-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer remains a lethal malignancy with a 5-year survival rate below 6% and about 500,000 deaths annually worldwide. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form, is commonly associated with diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, obesity, and smoking, mainly affecting individuals aged 60 to 80 years. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. METHODS A systematic search was conducted to identify clinical trials (Phases I-III) assessing immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer in PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, adhering to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines. The final search was completed on May 25, 2024. Ongoing trials were sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). Keywords such as "pancreatic," "immunotherapy," "cancer," and "clinical trial" were used across databases. Gray literature was excluded. RESULTS Phase I trials, involving 337 patients, reported a median overall survival (OS) of 13.6 months (IQR: 5-62.5 months) and a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 5.1 months (IQR: 1.9-11.7 months). Phase II/III trials pooled in a total of 1463 participants had a median OS of 12.2 months (IQR: 2.5-35.55 months) and a median PFS of 8.8 months (IQR: 1.4-33.51 months). CONCLUSIONS Immunotherapy shows potential for extending survival among pancreatic cancer patients, though results vary. The immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment and diverse patient responses underline the need for further research to optimize these therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zouina Sarfraz
- Department of Medicine, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Queen's Road, Mozang Chungi, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | | | | | - Musfira Khalid
- Department of Medicine, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Queen's Road, Mozang Chungi, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Taleah Khan
- CMH Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Zainab Pervaiz
- CMH Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Ali Jaan
- Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Junaid Anwar
- Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas, Beaumont, TX, USA
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Argentiero A, Andriano A, Caradonna IC, de Martino G, Desantis V. Decoding the Intricate Landscape of Pancreatic Cancer: Insights into Tumor Biology, Microenvironment, and Therapeutic Interventions. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2438. [PMID: 39001498 PMCID: PMC11240778 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16132438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents significant oncological challenges due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in progression and treatment resistance. Non-neoplastic cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), contribute to tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. Although immune cells infiltrate TME, tumor cells evade immune responses by secreting chemokines and expressing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Vascular components, like endothelial cells and pericytes, stimulate angiogenesis to support tumor growth, while adipocytes secrete factors that promote cell growth, invasion, and treatment resistance. Additionally, perineural invasion, a characteristic feature of PDAC, contributes to local recurrence and poor prognosis. Moreover, key signaling pathways including Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), Notch, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), and Wnt/β-catenin drive tumor progression and resistance. Targeting the TME is crucial for developing effective therapies, including strategies like inhibiting CAFs, modulating immune response, disrupting angiogenesis, and blocking neural cell interactions. A recent multi-omic approach has identified signature genes associated with anoikis resistance, which could serve as prognostic biomarkers and targets for personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Andriano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ingrid Catalina Caradonna
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giulia de Martino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vanessa Desantis
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
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Wang X, Breuer J, Garbe S, Giordano F, Brossart P, Feldmann G, Bisht S. Triple Blockade of Oncogenic RAS Signaling Using KRAS and MEK Inhibitors in Combination with Irradiation in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6249. [PMID: 38892436 PMCID: PMC11172716 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest of human malignancies and carries an exceptionally poor prognosis. It is mostly driven by multiple oncogenic alterations, with the highest mutation frequency being observed in the KRAS gene, which is a key oncogenic driver of tumorogenesis and malignant progression in PDAC. However, KRAS remained undruggable for decades until the emergence of G12C mutation specific KRAS inhibitors. Despite this development, this therapeutic approach to target KRAS directly is not routinely used for PDAC patients, with the reasons being the rare presence of G12C mutation in PDAC with only 1-2% of occurring cases, modest therapeutic efficacy, activation of compensatory pathways leading to cell resistance, and absence of effective KRASG12D or pan-KRAS inhibitors. Additionally, indirect approaches to targeting KRAS through upstream and downstream regulators or effectors were also found to be either ineffective or known to cause major toxicities. For this reason, new and more effective treatment strategies that combine different therapeutic modalities aiming at achieving synergism and minimizing intrinsic or adaptive resistance mechanisms are required. In the current work presented here, pancreatic cancer cell lines with oncogenic KRAS G12C, G12D, or wild-type KRAS were treated with specific KRAS or SOS1/2 inhibitors, and therapeutic synergisms with concomitant MEK inhibition and irradiation were systematically evaluated by means of cell viability, 2D-clonogenic, 3D-anchorage independent soft agar, and bioluminescent ATP assays. Underlying pathophysiological mechanisms were examined by using Western blot analyses, apoptosis assay, and RAS activation assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Johanna Breuer
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Stephan Garbe
- Department of Radiology and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank Giordano
- Department of Radiology and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Brossart
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Georg Feldmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Savita Bisht
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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6
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Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Zheng R, Liu X, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo S, Jin X, Zhang J, Guan Y, Liu Y. Frontiers and future of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: from molecular mechanisms to clinical application. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383978. [PMID: 38756774 PMCID: PMC11096556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383978] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignant tumor, that is becoming increasingly common in recent years. Despite advances in intensive treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy, the overall survival rate has not significantly improved in patients with pancreatic cancer. This may be attributed to the insidious onset, unknown pathophysiology, and poor prognosis of the disease. It is therefore essential to identify and develop more effective and safer treatments for pancreatic cancer. Tumor immunotherapy is the new and fourth pillar of anti-tumor therapy after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Significant progress has made in the use of immunotherapy for a wide variety of malignant tumors in recent years; a breakthrough has also been made in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This review describes the advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus, and matrix-depletion therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. At the same time, some new potential biomarkers and potential immunotherapy combinations for pancreatic cancer are discussed. The molecular mechanisms of various immunotherapies have also been elucidated, and their clinical applications have been highlighted. The current challenges associated with immunotherapy and proposed strategies that hold promise in overcoming these limitations have also been discussed, with the aim of offering new insights into immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zheng
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yufu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongxian Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shutong Guo
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuehong Guan
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yusi Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
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8
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Larson AC, Doty KR, Solheim JC. The double life of a chemotherapy drug: Immunomodulatory functions of gemcitabine in cancer. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7287. [PMID: 38770637 PMCID: PMC11106691 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the development of immunotherapies has been revolutionary in the treatment of several cancers, many cancer types remain unresponsive to immune-based treatment and are largely managed by chemotherapy drugs. However, chemotherapeutics are not infallible and are frequently rendered ineffective as resistance develops from prolonged exposure. Recent investigations have indicated that some chemotherapy drugs have additional functions beyond their normative cytotoxic capacity and are in fact immune-modifying agents. Of the pharmaceuticals with identified immune-editing properties, gemcitabine is well-studied and of interest to clinicians and scientists alike. Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy drug approved for the treatment of multiple cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, and ovarian. Because of its broad applications, relatively low toxicity profile, and history as a favorable combinatory partner, there is promise in the recharacterization of gemcitabine in the context of the immune system. Such efforts may allow the identification of suitable immunotherapeutic combinations, wherein gemcitabine can be used as a priming agent to improve immunotherapy efficacy in traditionally insensitive cancers. This review looks to highlight documented immunomodulatory abilities of one of the most well-known chemotherapy agents, gemcitabine, relating to its influence on cells and proteins of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina C. Larson
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Kenadie R. Doty
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Joyce C. Solheim
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied DiseasesUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer CenterUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, & ImmunologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
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9
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Ye X, Yu Y, Zheng X, Ma H. Clinical immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:64. [PMID: 38430289 PMCID: PMC10908626 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03632-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains a challenging disease with limited treatment options, resulting in high mortality rates. The predominant approach to managing pancreatic cancer patients continues to be systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy. Despite substantial advancements in immunotherapy strategies for various cancers, their clinical utility in pancreatic cancer has proven less effective and durable. Whether administered as monotherapy, employing immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccines, chimeric antigen receptors T cells, or in combination with conventional chemoradiotherapy, the clinical outcomes remain underwhelming. Extensive preclinical experiments and clinical trials in the realm of pancreatic cancer have provided valuable insights into the complexities of immunotherapy. Chief among the hurdles are the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, limited immunogenicity, and the inherent heterogeneity of pancreatic cancer. In this comprehensive review, we provide an overview and critical analysis of current clinical immunotherapy strategies for pancreatic cancer, emphasizing their endeavors to overcome immunotherapy resistance. Particular focus is placed on strategies aimed at reshaping the immunosuppressive microenvironment and enhancing T cell-mediated tumor cell killing. Ultimately, through deeper elucidation of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of pancreatic cancer and the refinement of therapeutic approaches, we anticipate breakthroughs that will pave the way for more effective treatments in this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaohu Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China.
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Quantitative Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hongdi Ma
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Callahan M, Amin A, Kaye FJ, Morse MA, Taylor MH, Peltola KJ, Sharma P, O'Reilly EM, Meadows Shropshire S, O'Brien S, Tschaika M, Le DT. Nivolumab monotherapy or combination with ipilimumab with or without cobimetinib in previously treated patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (CheckMate 032). J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007883. [PMID: 38316517 PMCID: PMC10860063 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancer types and represents a major unmet medical need. CheckMate 032 investigated safety and efficacy of nivolumab monotherapy and nivolumab plus ipilimumab with/without cobimetinib in advanced/metastatic solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer. METHODS In the original pancreatic cancer cohort, previously treated patients (≥1 prior regimen) with advanced/metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma were assigned to nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (monotherapy arm) or nivolumab 1 mg/kg and ipilimumab 1 mg/kg or 3 mg/kg every 3 weeks for four doses, followed by nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (combination arm). A subsequent modified pancreatic cohort (one or two prior regimens) received nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks, ipilimumab 1 mg/kg every 6 weeks, and cobimetinib 60 mg orally once daily for 21 days on and 7 days off (triplet arm). The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints were investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS), PFS rate, overall survival (OS), OS rate, safety, and tolerability. Additionally, ORR, PFS, and duration of response were assessed by blinded independent central review (BICR) in the triplet arm. RESULTS 18 patients received nivolumab monotherapy, 21 received nivolumab plus ipilimumab, and 30 received nivolumab plus ipilimumab plus cobimetinib. In the triplet arm, partial responses were observed in two patients per investigator (ORR 6.7% (95% CI 0.8% to 22.1%)) and in three patients per BICR (ORR 10% (95% CI 2.1% to 26.5%)); no responses were observed in the other arms. Median (95% CI) PFS per investigator was 1.4 (1.3 to 2.0), 1.4 (1.2 to 2.7), and 3.0 (1.5 to 4.1) months for the monotherapy, nivolumab plus ipilimumab, and triplet arms, respectively. Median (95% CI) OS was 5.1 (2.0 to 9.0) months, 4.0 (1.9 to 5.6) months, and 6.2 (3.9 to 11.4) months, respectively. Most treatment-related adverse events were grade 2 or less. CONCLUSIONS Nivolumab with or without ipilimumab did not elicit objective responses in previously treated patients with advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma, although three confirmed partial responses and manageable safety were observed with cobimetinib-containing triplet therapy. The small sample size and differences in baseline disease-specific characteristics between arms limit interpretation of these results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asim Amin
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Frederic J Kaye
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dung T Le
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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11
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Luo Q, Dong Y, Liu P, He C, Chen L, Zhang K, Pan C, Gao Y, Qin T. Inhibition Effect of Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment in Pancreatic Cancer: A Retrospective Study. Immunotargets Ther 2024; 13:45-54. [PMID: 38317658 PMCID: PMC10840537 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s442247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chemotherapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ChIM) is used to treat advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the efficacy of ChIM is similar to that of chemotherapy alone. Methods To assess potential factors affecting the effectiveness of ChIM, we analyzed the clinical data of 359 patients with PDAC who visited the hospital during June 2017 to December 2022. Results Surgical resection, diabetes, and ChIM were risk factors for pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI). The adjusted odds ratio of ChIM was 2.63 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.492-4.626) (P = 0.001). The incidence of PEI in the ChIM group (76.9%) was significantly higher than that of the chemotherapy group (60.2%) (P = 0.004). Survival analysis showed that ChIM did not improve the survival rate of patients with PDAC (hazard ratio (HR) 0.92, 0.707-1.197) (P = 0.534) in comparison with that of the chemotherapy group. However, in patients without PEI, those receiving ChIM showed a higher 1-year overall survival (OS) rate of 70.8% (two-sided, P = 0.045) and a median OS of 22.0 months (95% CI 11.5-32.5). Moreover, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy significantly improved the OS of patients with PDAC (HR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.561-0.956) (P = 0.022). Conclusion Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) increased the incidence of PEI in patients with PDAC. The OS was not different between patients receiving chemotherapy and ChIM due to irregular PERT treatment. The finding show that pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy may improve the response rate of patients with PDAC to ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiankun Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifei Dong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Henan University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kailun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changjie Pan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yahui Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
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12
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Ashida R, Kawabata KI, Asami R, Kitano M. Novel treatment system using endoscopic ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound: A proof-of-concept study. Pancreatology 2024; 24:88-92. [PMID: 38036413 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a novel minimally invasive local treatment of solid tumors. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided HIFU (EUS-HIFU) using mechanical effects would have potential benefits, including precise detection of target lesions and enhance drug delivery. The aim of this study is to develop EUS-HIFU device and to prove our concept in porcine model using a locally injected phase change nano droplet (PCND) as the sensitizer. METHOD A phospholipid PCND contained volatile perfluoro-carbon liquids. The prototype HIFU apparatus comprised a small (20 × 20 mm) transducer with center frequency of 2.1 MHz, attachable to a linear EUS transducer. Under general anesthetic, a single porcine received EUS-guided injection of PCND. The HIFU transducer was placed laparotomically in the stomach, and the liver was ablated through the gastric wall. RESULTS PCND was injected successfully and a distinct lesion was generated at the HIFU transducer focus only in injected areas that received HIFU exposure at 4.7 kW/cm2 at a duty cycle of 5 % (mean temporal intensity, 0.245 kW/cm2) for 30 s. The generated lesions were mechanically fractionated in macroscopic view. CONCLUSION The concept of transluminal HIFU ablation using novel EUS-HIFU system was proved in a porcine animal model. This novel treatment system has great potential for future cancer treatment although further investigation in more animals and different organs are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Ashida
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan.
| | | | - Rei Asami
- Imaging Technology Center, FUJIFILM Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kitano
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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13
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Sini MC, Doro MG, Frogheri L, Zinellu A, Paliogiannis P, Porcu A, Scognamillo F, Delogu D, Santeufemia DA, Persico I, Palomba G, Maestrale GB, Cossu A, Palmieri G. Combination of mutations in genes controlling DNA repair and high mutational load plays a prognostic role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): a retrospective real-life study in Sardinian population. J Transl Med 2024; 22:108. [PMID: 38280995 PMCID: PMC10821545 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04923-3] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDCA) carrying impaired mismatch repair mechanisms seem to have an outcome advantage under treatment with conventional chemotherapy, whereas the role for the tumor mutation burden on prognosis is controversial. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic role of the mutated genes involved in genome damage repair in a real-life series of PDAC patients in a hospital-based manner from the main Institution deputed to surgically treat such a disease in North Sardinia. METHODS A cohort of fifty-five consecutive PDAC patients with potentially resectable/border line resectable PDAC (stage IIB-III) or oligometastatic disease (stage IV) and tumor tissue availability underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based analysis using a panel containing driver oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes as well as genes controlling DNA repair mechanisms. RESULTS Genes involved in the both genome damage repair (DR) and DNA mismatch repair (MMR) were found mutated in 17 (31%) and 15 (27%) cases, respectively. One fourth of PDAC cases (14/55; 25.5%) carried tumors presenting a combination of mutations in repair genes (DR and MMR) and the highest mutation load rates (MLR-H). After correction for confounders (surgery, adjuvant therapy, stage T, and metastasis), multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that mutations in DR genes (HR = 3.0126, 95% CI 1.0707 to 8.4764, p = 0.0367) and the MLR (HR = 1.0018, 95%CI 1.0005 to 1.0032, p = 0.009) were significantly related to worse survival. CONCLUSIONS The combination of mutated repair genes and MLR-H, which is associated with a worse survival in our series of PDAC patients treated with conventional chemotherapy protocols, might become a predictive biomarker of response to immunotherapy in addition to its prognostic role in predicting survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Sini
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Doro
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Frogheri
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Panagiotis Paliogiannis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alberto Porcu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Scognamillo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniele Delogu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Ivana Persico
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Palomba
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Maestrale
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Cossu
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Palmieri
- Unit of Cancer Genetics, Institute of Genetic Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy.
- Immuno-Oncology & Targeted Cancer Biotherapies, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
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14
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Mahadevia H, Uson Junior PLS, Wang J, Borad M, Babiker H. An overview of up-and-coming immune checkpoint inhibitors for pancreatic cancer. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:79-90. [PMID: 38193476 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2304125] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathway as well as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) have demonstrated substantial potential in several malignancies. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) still carries a high mortality despite tremendous advances in the anti-cancer arsenal. AREAS COVERED In this review, we discuss completed and ongoing studies on various ICIs in PC. ICIs have not yielded significant benefits as monotherapy. However, the combination with currently utilized therapies as well as with several other newer forms of therapy has delineated encouraging results. Larger trials are currently underway to definitively characterize the utility of ICIs in the treatment algorithm of PC. ICIs are approved for cancers with mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high tumors (MSI-H) as a tumor-agnostic treatment strategy usually referred to as hot tumors. EXPERT OPINION Studies evaluating different drugs to transform the tumor microenvironment (TME) from 'cold' to 'hot' have not shown promise in PC. There still needs to be more prospective trials evaluating the efficacy of the combination of ICIs with different therapeutic modalities in PC that can augment the immunogenic potential of those 'cold' tumors. Exploratory biomarker analysis may help us identify those subsets of PC patients who may particularly benefit from ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himil Mahadevia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Pedro Luiz Serrano Uson Junior
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Mitesh Borad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Hani Babiker
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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15
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Cheng D, Hu J, Wu X, Wang B, Chen R, Zhao W, Fang C, Ji M. PD-1 blockade combined with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel is superior to chemotherapy alone in the management of unresectable stage III/IV pancreatic cancer: a retrospective real-world study. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1281545. [PMID: 37965469 PMCID: PMC10641475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1281545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer (PC) is widely recognized as one of the most malignant forms of cancer worldwide. Monotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has shown limited efficacy in treating this disease. There was controversy surrounding whether combining ICI with chemotherapy provided superior outcomes compared to chemotherapy alone. Methods In this study, patients diagnosed with unresectable stage III/IV pancreatic cancer (PC) were classified as receiving programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade plus gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel (AG regimen) (PD-1/chemo, n=27, 50.9%) or chemotherapy alone (chemo, n=26, 49.1%) arm. The primary study endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), with an additional assessment of treatment-related adverse events graded as three or higher. Chi-square (χ2) statistics were employed to analyze the clinical differences between the two groups, while Kaplan-Meier curves were used to assess the difference in PFS and OS. Statistical significance was defined as P-values less than 0.05 (P < 0.05). Results The median follow-up duration was 22 months (range 1-28 months). In the PD-1/chemo arm, the median PFS was eight months, whereas it was 3.5 months in the chemo arm (HR=0.459, 95% CI: 0.252-0.846, P=0.002). Furthermore, the median OS was 15 months in the PD-1/chemo arm and eight months in the chemo arm (HR=0.345, 95% CI: 0.183-0.653, P<0.001). Within the PD-1/chemo arm, 15 (55.6%) patients experienced grade 3 treatment-related adverse events, compared to 13 (50.0%) patients in the chemo arm. Conclusions PD-1 blockade combined with nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine demonstrated superior efficacy to chemotherapy alone for unresectable stage III/IV PC patients. Future studies were warranted to identify immunosensitive patient subgroups within the PC population, ultimately leading to the development of more efficacious therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Cheng Fang
- Departments of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Mei Ji
- Departments of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
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16
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Leowattana W, Leowattana P, Leowattana T. Systemic treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:1691-1705. [PMID: 37969416 PMCID: PMC10631439 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i10.1691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with an extremely poor 5-year survival rate due to treatment resistance and late-stage detection. Despite numerous years of research and pharmaceutical development, these figures have not changed. Treatment options for advanced pancreatic cancer are still limited. This illness is typically detected at a late stage, making curative surgical resection impossible. Chemotherapy is the most commonly utilized technique for treating advanced pancreatic cancer but has poor efficacy. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have made significant progress in many other cancer types and have been proven to have extremely promising possibilities; these therapies also hold promise for pancreatic cancer. There is an urgent need for research into targeted treatment, immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines. In this review, we emphasize the foundational findings that have fueled the therapeutic strategy for advanced pancreatic cancer. We also address current advancements in targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines, all of which continue to improve the clinical outcome of advanced pancreatic cancer. We believe that clinical translation of these novel treatments will improve the low survival rate of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wattana Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachatawee 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pathomthep Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachatawee 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tawithep Leowattana
- Department of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Wattana 10110, Bangkok, Thailand
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17
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Zhang B, Tang K, Dong X. A case of pancreatic cancer treated with chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2023; 52:578-582. [PMID: 37899397 PMCID: PMC10630052 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
A 68-year-old male was admitted due to fatigue and poor appetite and diagnosed pathologically as pancreatic adenocarcinoma with liver metastasis. The tumor marker carbohydrate antigen 199 (CA199) level was 2003.4 U/mL. The patient received two cycles of modified FOLFIRINOX plus immune checkpoint inhibitor (penpulimab). However, the tumor did not shrink and CA199 level was even higher. Anlotinib was added from the 3rd cycle, and the size of primary tumor and metastatic lesions were significantly reduced. Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy as well as liver metastasis resection was performed. Three cycles of combined therapy were adopted after surgery followed by maintenance therapy with anlotinib plus penpulimab. There was no evidence of tumor recurrence during the follow-up (nearly 19 months since diagnosis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhang
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China.
| | - Kezhong Tang
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Xin Dong
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China.
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18
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Tran LC, Özdemir BC, Berger MD. The Role of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: Current State and Outlook. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1411. [PMID: 37895882 PMCID: PMC10609661 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101411] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest tumors, characterized by its aggressive tumor biology and poor prognosis. While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) play a major part in the treatment algorithm of various solid tumors, there is still no evidence of clinical benefit from ICI in patients with metastatic PDAC (mPDAC). This might be due to several reasons, such as the inherent low immunogenicity of pancreatic cancer, the dense stroma-rich tumor microenvironment that precludes an efficient migration of antitumoral effector T cells to the cancer cells, and the increased proportion of immunosuppressive immune cells, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), facilitating tumor growth and invasion. In this review, we provide an overview of the current state of ICIs in mPDAC, report on the biological rationale to implement ICIs into the treatment strategy of pancreatic cancer, and discuss preclinical studies and clinical trials in this field. Additionally, we shed light on the challenges of implementing ICIs into the treatment strategy of PDAC and discuss potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martin D. Berger
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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19
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Cui J, Guo Y, Yin T, Gou S, Xiong J, Liang X, Lu C, Peng T. USP8 promotes gemcitabine resistance of pancreatic cancer via deubiquitinating and stabilizing Nrf2. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115359. [PMID: 37639742 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Gemcitabine (Gem) is the first-line chemotherapy drug for pancreatic cancer, but the acquired chemoresistance also hinders its application. Therefore, research about Gem resistance plays a crucial role in enhancing the therapeutic effect of Gem. As a deubiquitinating enzyme, ubiquitin-specific protease 8 (USP8) was shown to play vital roles in the tumorigenesis processes of several cancers; however, the effect of USP8 on Gem resistance of pancreatic cancer still remains largely unknown. In the current study, we observed that the expression of USP8 was increased in pancreatic cancer patients, it is related to the recurrence of Gem chemotherapy, and USP8 expression could be induced by Gem application. Furthermore, USP8 was found to promote Gem resistance both in vivo and in vitro via regulating cell viability and apoptosis. Moreover, USP8 enhanced the activation of Nrf2 signaling which is dependent on its deubiquitinase ability. At last, we illustrated that USP8 interacted with Nrf2 directly and deubiquitinated K48-linked polyubiquitin chains from Nrf2, stabilizing the expression of Nrf2. In summary, the manuscript revealed the role of USP8 in Gem chemoresistance and suggested USP8 as a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cui
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yao Guo
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Tao Yin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Shanmiao Gou
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Jiongxin Xiong
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xueyi Liang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Chong Lu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Tao Peng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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20
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Natu J, Nagaraju GP. Gemcitabine effects on tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Special focus on resistance mechanisms and metronomic therapies. Cancer Lett 2023; 573:216382. [PMID: 37666293 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered one of the deadliest malignancies, with dismal survival rates and extremely prevalent chemoresistance. Gemcitabine is one of the primary treatments used in treating PDACs, but its benefits are limited due to chemoresistance, which could be attributed to interactions between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and intracellular processes. In preclinical models, certain schedules of administration of gemcitabine modulate the TME in a manner that does not promote resistance. Metronomic therapy constitutes a promising strategy to overcome some barriers associated with current PDAC treatments. This review will focus on gemcitabine's mechanism in treating PDAC, combination therapies, gemcitabine's interactions with the TME, and gemcitabine in metronomic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Natu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
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21
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Chouari T, La Costa FS, Merali N, Jessel MD, Sivakumar S, Annels N, Frampton AE. Advances in Immunotherapeutics in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4265. [PMID: 37686543 PMCID: PMC10486452 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) accounts for up to 95% of all pancreatic cancer cases and is the seventh-leading cause of cancer death. Poor prognosis is a result of late presentation, a lack of screening tests and the fact some patients develop resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Novel therapies like immunotherapeutics have been of recent interest in pancreatic cancer. However, this field remains in its infancy with much to unravel. Immunotherapy and other targeted therapies have yet to yield significant progress in treating PDAC, primarily due to our limited understanding of the disease immune mechanisms and its intricate interactions with the tumour microenvironment (TME). In this review we provide an overview of current novel immunotherapies which have been studied in the field of pancreatic cancer. We discuss their mechanisms, evidence available in pancreatic cancer as well as the limitations of such therapies. We showcase the potential role of combining novel therapies in PDAC, postulate their potential clinical implications and the hurdles associated with their use in PDAC. Therapies discussed with include programmed death checkpoint inhibitors, Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4, Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T cell therapy, oncolytic viral therapy and vaccine therapies including KRAS vaccines, Telomerase vaccines, Gastrin Vaccines, Survivin-targeting vaccines, Heat-shock protein (HSP) peptide complex-based vaccines, MUC-1 targeting vaccines, Listeria based vaccines and Dendritic cell-based vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarak Chouari
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Department, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (T.C.); (F.S.L.C.); (N.M.)
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (M.-D.J.); (N.A.)
| | - Francesca Soraya La Costa
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Department, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (T.C.); (F.S.L.C.); (N.M.)
| | - Nabeel Merali
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Department, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (T.C.); (F.S.L.C.); (N.M.)
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (M.-D.J.); (N.A.)
- The Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Maria-Danae Jessel
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (M.-D.J.); (N.A.)
| | - Shivan Sivakumar
- Oncology Department and Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Birmingham Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Nicola Annels
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (M.-D.J.); (N.A.)
| | - Adam E. Frampton
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Department, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (T.C.); (F.S.L.C.); (N.M.)
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (M.-D.J.); (N.A.)
- The Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
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22
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Ma H, Chen X, Mo S, Mao X, Chen J, Liu Y, Lu Z, Yu S, Chen J. The spatial coexistence of TIGIT/CD155 defines poorer survival and resistance to adjuvant chemotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Theranostics 2023; 13:4601-4614. [PMID: 37649613 PMCID: PMC10465224 DOI: 10.7150/thno.86547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Targeting emerging T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT)/CD155 axis shows promise for restoring anti-tumor immunity, but its immune phenotypes and prognostic significance in a large cohort of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are limited. Methods: Three seven-color multispectral panels were rationally designed to investigate the protein expression, immune-microenvironmental feature, prognostic value, and the response to adjuvant chemotherapy of TIGIT/CD155 in 272 PDAC specimens using multiplex immunohistochemistry. Results: We revealed low immunogenicity and high heterogeneity of the PDAC immune microenvironment featured by abundant CD3+ T cells and CD68+ macrophages and low infiltration of activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes. TIGIT and CD155 were highly expressed in PDAC tissues compared to paracancerous tissues. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes expressing TIGIT were correlated with high densities of CD45RO+ T cells; TIGTI+CD8+ T cells were associated with high infiltration of CD3+CD45RO+FOXP3+. CD155+CK+ were significantly related to high densities of CD3+ and CD3+CD8+CD45RO+ T cells. High positive rates for TIGIT in TCs, CD8+ T cells, and CD155 in macrophages were correlated with poor progression-free and disease-specific survival, respectively, and their clinical significance was correlated with PD-L1 status. Notably, spatial co-existence of TIGIT+CK+ or TIGIT+CD8+ and CD155+CD68+ indicated poor survival and resistance to adjuvant chemotherapy response in patients with PDAC. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that targeting TIGIT/CD155 immunosuppressive axis may guide patient stratification and improve the clinical outcome of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Shuangni Yu
- ✉ Corresponding author: Jie Chen, Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China. E-mail: . Orcid ID: 0000-0002-2658-9525. Shuangni Yu, Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China. E-mail: . Orcid ID: 0000-0002-3745-1097
| | - Jie Chen
- ✉ Corresponding author: Jie Chen, Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China. E-mail: . Orcid ID: 0000-0002-2658-9525. Shuangni Yu, Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China. E-mail: . Orcid ID: 0000-0002-3745-1097
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23
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Wang M, Hu Q, Huang J, Zhang F, Yao Z, Shao S, Zhao X, Liang T. In Situ Formed ROS-Responsive Hydrogel with STING Agonist and Gemcitabine to Intensify Immunotherapy against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203264. [PMID: 36971070 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy, the most revolutionary anticancer strategy, faces major obstacles in yielding desirable outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) due to the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Meanwhile, when used alone, the traditional first-line chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine (GEM) in PDAC treatment is also insufficient to achieve lasting efficacy. In this study, a reactive oxygen species degradable hydrogel system, denoted as GEM-STING@Gel, is engineered to codeliver gemcitabine and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist DMXAA (5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid) into the tumor site. In this work, the strategy addresses the major challenges of current immunotherapies with a facile platform, which can synergistically activate innate immunity and promote the cytotoxic T lymphocytes infiltration at the tumor site, thereby modulating the immunosuppressive TME. Further, the efficient therapeutic potency of the immunotherapy is confirmed in an orthotopic postsurgical model, unleashing the translational potential to prevent tumor recurrence after surgical resection. This study underscores the advantages of this integrative strategy that combines chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and biomaterial-based hydrogel, including improved therapeutic efficacy, operational convenience, and superior biosafety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qida Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Junming Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Fu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhuo Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shiyi Shao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, 311121, China
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24
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Herpels M, Ishihara J, Sadanandam A. The clinical terrain of immunotherapies in heterogeneous pancreatic cancer: unravelling challenges and opportunities. J Pathol 2023; 260:533-550. [PMID: 37550956 DOI: 10.1002/path.6171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common and aggressive type of pancreatic cancer and has abysmal survival rates. In the past two decades, immunotherapeutic agents with success in other cancer types have gradually been trialled against PDACs at different stages of cancer progression, either as a monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. Unfortunately, to this day, chemotherapy still prolongs the survival rates the most and is prescribed in clinics despite the severe side effects in other cancer types. The low success rates of immunotherapy against PDAC have been attributed most frequently to its complex and multi-faceted tumour microenvironment (TME) and low mutational burden. In this review, we give a comprehensive overview of the immunotherapies tested in PDAC clinical trials thus far, their limitations, and potential explanations for their failure. We also discuss the existing classification of heterogenous PDACs into cancer, cancer-associated fibroblast, and immune subtypes and their potential opportunity in patient selection as a form of personalisation of PDAC immunotherapy. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Herpels
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jun Ishihara
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Anguraj Sadanandam
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Centre for Global Oncology, Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Centre for Translational Immunotherapy, Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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25
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Wei L, Sun J, Wang X, Huang Y, Huang L, Han L, Zheng Y, Xu Y, Zhang N, Yang M. Noncoding RNAs: an emerging modulator of drug resistance in pancreatic cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1226639. [PMID: 37560164 PMCID: PMC10407809 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1226639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the eighth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Chemotherapy including gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil, adriamycin and cisplatin, immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapy have been demonstrated to significantly improve prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients with advanced diseases. However, most patients developed drug resistance to these therapeutic agents, which leading to shortened patient survival. The detailed molecular mechanisms contributing to pancreatic cancer drug resistance remain largely unclear. The growing evidences have shown that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are involved in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and development of drug resistance. In the present review, we systematically summarized the new insight on of various miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs on drug resistance of pancreatic cancer. These results demonstrated that targeting the tumor-specific ncRNA may provide novel options for pancreatic cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wei
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jujie Sun
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xingwu Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yizhou Huang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Linying Huang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Linyu Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanxiu Zheng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Nasha Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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26
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Kelly RJ, Bever K, Chao J, Ciombor KK, Eng C, Fakih M, Goyal L, Hubbard J, Iyer R, Kemberling HT, Krishnamurthi S, Ku G, Mordecai MM, Morris VK, Paulson AS, Peterson V, Shah MA, Le DT. Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) clinical practice guideline on immunotherapy for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-006658. [PMID: 37286304 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including esophageal, gastroesophageal junction, gastric, duodenal and distal small bowel, biliary tract, pancreatic, colon, rectal, and anal cancer, comprise a heterogeneous group of malignancies that impose a significant global burden. Immunotherapy has transformed the treatment landscape for several GI cancers, offering some patients durable responses and prolonged survival. Specifically, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) directed against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), either as monotherapies or in combination regimens, have gained tissue site-specific regulatory approvals for the treatment of metastatic disease and in the resectable setting. Indications for ICIs in GI cancer, however, have differing biomarker and histology requirements depending on the anatomic site of origin. Furthermore, ICIs are associated with unique toxicity profiles compared with other systemic treatments that have long been the mainstay for GI cancer, such as chemotherapy. With the goal of improving patient care by providing guidance to the oncology community, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) convened a panel of experts to develop this clinical practice guideline on immunotherapy for the treatment of GI cancer. Drawing from published data and clinical experience, the expert panel developed evidence- and consensus-based recommendations for healthcare professionals using ICIs to treat GI cancers, with topics including biomarker testing, therapy selection, and patient education and quality of life considerations, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan J Kelly
- Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Katherine Bever
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph Chao
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Kristen K Ciombor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Cathy Eng
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marwan Fakih
- Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center Duarte, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Lipika Goyal
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Joleen Hubbard
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Department of GI Medical Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Holly T Kemberling
- Department of GI Immunology Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Geoffrey Ku
- Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Van K Morris
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Division of Cancer Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Andrew Scott Paulson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Texas Oncology-Baylor Charles A Sammons Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Valerie Peterson
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Manish A Shah
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dung T Le
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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27
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Lauriola A, Davalli P, Marverti G, Santi S, Caporali A, D'Arca D. Targeting the Interplay of Independent Cellular Pathways and Immunity: A Challenge in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15113009. [PMID: 37296972 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15113009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that exploits the capacity of the body's immune system to prevent, control, and remove cancer. Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment and significantly improved patient outcomes for several tumor types. However, most patients have not benefited from such therapies yet. Within the field of cancer immunotherapy, an expansion of the combination strategy that targets independent cellular pathways that can work synergistically is predicted. Here, we review some consequences of tumor cell death and increased immune system engagement in the modulation of oxidative stress and ubiquitin ligase pathways. We also indicate combinations of cancer immunotherapies and immunomodulatory targets. Additionally, we discuss imaging techniques, which are crucial for monitoring tumor responses during treatment and the immunotherapy side effects. Finally, the major outstanding questions are also presented, and directions for future research are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Lauriola
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Pierpaola Davalli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Via G. Campi 287, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Gaetano Marverti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Via G. Campi 287, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Spartaco Santi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) Institute of Molecular Genetics "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", 40136 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Caporali
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Domenico D'Arca
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Via G. Campi 287, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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28
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Brown TJ, Reiss KA, O'Hara MH. Advancements in Systemic Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e397082. [PMID: 37192430 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_397082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Outcomes for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer have improved in the past 12 years, mainly because of progress made in systemic therapies. New treatment strategies for advanced pancreatic cancer include switch maintenance with cytotoxic therapies, induction maintenance, and the utilization of targeted agents for patients with actionable variants, as well as ongoing development of cytotoxic regimens, such as NALIRIFOX. The activity of immunotherapy has been disappointing to date, but novel combinations and identifying appropriate patient populations may further unlock its potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Brown
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kim A Reiss
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mark H O'Hara
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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29
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Ma LX, Wang Y, Espin-Garcia O, Allen MJ, Jang GH, Zhang A, Dodd A, Ramotar S, Hutchinson S, Tehfe M, Ramjeesingh R, Biagi J, Wilson JM, Notta F, Fischer SE, Zogopoulos G, Gallinger S, Grant RC, Khokha R, Chan N, Grünwald BT, Knox JJ, O'Kane GM. Systemic inflammatory prognostic scores in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1916-1921. [PMID: 36927977 PMCID: PMC10147590 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic inflammatory scores may aid prognostication and patient selection for trials. We compared five scores in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS Unresectable/metastatic PDAC patients enrolled in the Comprehensive Molecular Characterisation of Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma for Better Treatment Selection trial (NCT02750657) were included. Patients had pre-treatment biopsies for whole genome and RNA sequencing. CD8 immunohistochemistry was available in a subset. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, Prognostic Nutritional Index, Gustave Roussy Immune Score (GRIm-S), and Memorial Sloan Kettering Prognostic Score (MPS) were calculated. Overall survival (OS) was estimated using Kaplan-Meier methods. Associations between inflammatory scores, clinical/genomic characteristics, and OS were analysed. RESULTS We analysed 263 patients. High-risk NLR, GRIm-S and MPS were poorly prognostic. The GRIm-S had the highest predictive ability: median OS 6.4 vs. 10 months for high risk vs. low-risk (P < 0.001); HR 2.26 (P < 0.001). ECOG ≥ 1, the basal-like subtype, and low-HRDetect were additional poor prognostic factors (P < 0.01). Inflammatory scores did not associate with RNA-based classifiers or homologous recombination repair deficiency genotypes. High-risk MPS (P = 0.04) and GRIm-S (P = 0.02) patients had lower median CD8 + tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes. CONCLUSIONS Inflammatory scores incorporating NLR have prognostic value in advanced PDAC. Understanding immunophenotypes of poor-risk patients and using these scores in trials will advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy X Ma
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yifan Wang
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre; Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University; Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Osvaldo Espin-Garcia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health & Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biostatistics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael J Allen
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gun Ho Jang
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amy Zhang
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Dodd
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Ramotar
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shawn Hutchinson
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mustapha Tehfe
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ravi Ramjeesingh
- QEII Health Sciences Centre, Division of Medical Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Julie M Wilson
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Faiyaz Notta
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra E Fischer
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - George Zogopoulos
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre; Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University; Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Steven Gallinger
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Hepatobiliary/Pancreatic Surgical Oncology Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert C Grant
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rama Khokha
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan Chan
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara T Grünwald
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer J Knox
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Grainne M O'Kane
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. grainne.o'
- PanCuRx Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada. grainne.o'
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30
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Ware MB, Phillips M, McQuinn C, Zaidi MY, Knochelmann HM, Greene E, Robinson B, Herting CJ, Mace TA, Chen Z, Zhang C, Farren MR, Ruggieri AN, Bowers JS, Shakya R, Farris AB, Young G, Carson WE, El-Rayes B, Paulos CM, Lesinski GB. Dual IL-6 and CTLA-4 blockade regresses pancreatic tumors in a T cell- and CXCR3-dependent manner. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e155006. [PMID: 36881480 PMCID: PMC10243806 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.155006] [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: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to enhance antitumor immune responses to pancreatic cancer via Ab-based blockade of IL-6 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). Mice bearing s.c. or orthotopic pancreatic tumors were treated with blocking Abs to IL‑6 and/or CTLA-4. In both tumor models, dual IL-6 and CTLA-4 blockade significantly inhibited tumor growth. Additional investigations revealed that dual therapy induced an overwhelming infiltration of T cells into the tumor as well as changes in CD4+ T cell subsets. Dual blockade therapy elicited CD4+ T cells to secrete increased IFN-γ in vitro. Likewise, in vitro stimulation of pancreatic tumor cells with IFN-γ profoundly increased tumor cell production of CXCR3-specific chemokines, even in the presence of IL-6. In vivo blockade of CXCR3 prevented orthotopic tumor regression in the presence of the combination treatment, demonstrating a dependence on the CXCR3 axis for antitumor efficacy. Both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were required for the antitumor activity of this combination therapy, as their in vivo depletion via Abs impaired outcomes. These data represent the first report to our knowledge of IL-6 and CTLA‑4 blockade as a means to regress pancreatic tumors with defined operative mechanisms of efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brandon Ware
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology
- Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Christopher McQuinn
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mohammad Y. Zaidi
- Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Hannah M. Knochelmann
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Brian Robinson
- Department of Pathology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Thomas A. Mace
- Division of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Zhengjia Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Jacob S. Bowers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Alton B. Farris
- Department of Pathology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gregory Young
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - William E. Carson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Chrystal M. Paulos
- Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Olajubutu O, Ogundipe OD, Adebayo A, Adesina SK. Drug Delivery Strategies for the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051318. [PMID: 37242560 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is fast becoming a global menace and it is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer-related death by 2030. Pancreatic adenocarcinomas, which develop in the pancreas' exocrine region, are the predominant type of pancreatic cancer, representing about 95% of total pancreatic tumors. The malignancy progresses asymptomatically, making early diagnosis difficult. It is characterized by excessive production of fibrotic stroma known as desmoplasia, which aids tumor growth and metastatic spread by remodeling the extracellular matrix and releasing tumor growth factors. For decades, immense efforts have been harnessed toward developing more effective drug delivery systems for pancreatic cancer treatment leveraging nanotechnology, immunotherapy, drug conjugates, and combinations of these approaches. However, despite the reported preclinical success of these approaches, no substantial progress has been made clinically and the prognosis for pancreatic cancer is worsening. This review provides insights into challenges associated with the delivery of therapeutics for pancreatic cancer treatment and discusses drug delivery strategies to minimize adverse effects associated with current chemotherapy options and to improve the efficiency of drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omotola D Ogundipe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Amusa Adebayo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Simeon K Adesina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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32
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Palma AM, Vudatha V, Peixoto ML, Madan E. Tumor heterogeneity: An oncogenic driver of PDAC progression and therapy resistance under stress conditions. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 159:203-249. [PMID: 37268397 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.005] [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: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a clinically challenging disease usually diagnosed at advanced or metastasized stage. By this year end, there are an expected increase in 62,210 new cases and 49,830 deaths in the United States, with 90% corresponding to PDAC subtype alone. Despite advances in cancer therapy, one of the major challenges combating PDAC remains tumor heterogeneity between PDAC patients and within the primary and metastatic lesions of the same patient. This review describes the PDAC subtypes based on the genomic, transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic signatures observed among patients and within individual tumors. Recent studies in tumor biology suggest PDAC heterogeneity as a major driver of disease progression under conditions of stress including hypoxia and nutrient deprivation, leading to metabolic reprogramming. We therefore advance our understanding in identifying the underlying mechanisms that interfere with the crosstalk between the extracellular matrix components and tumor cells that define the mechanics of tumor growth and metastasis. The bilateral interaction between the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment and PDAC cells serves as another important contributor that characterizes the tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressing phenotypes providing an opportunity for an effective treatment regime. Furthermore, we highlight the dynamic reciprocating interplay between the stromal and immune cells that impact immune surveillance or immune evasion response and contribute towards a complex process of tumorigenesis. In summary, the review encapsulates the existing knowledge of the currently applied treatments for PDAC with emphasis on tumor heterogeneity, manifesting at multiple levels, impacting disease progression and therapy resistance under stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vignesh Vudatha
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | | | - Esha Madan
- Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
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33
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Fudalej M, Kwaśniewska D, Nurzyński P, Badowska-Kozakiewicz A, Mękal D, Czerw A, Sygit K, Deptała A. New Treatment Options in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082327. [PMID: 37190255 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the seventh leading cause of cancer death across the world. Poor prognosis of PC is associated with several factors, such as diagnosis at an advanced stage, early distant metastases, and remarkable resistance to most conventional treatment options. The pathogenesis of PC seems to be significantly more complicated than originally assumed, and findings in other solid tumours cannot be extrapolated to this malignancy. To develop effective treatment schemes prolonging patient survival, a multidirectional approach encompassing different aspects of the cancer is needed. Particular directions have been established; however, further studies bringing them all together and connecting the strengths of each therapy are needed. This review summarises the current literature and provides an overview of new or emerging therapeutic strategies for the more effective management of metastatic PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Fudalej
- Department of Oncology Propaedeutics, Medical University of Warsaw, 01-445 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Oncology, Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daria Kwaśniewska
- Department of Oncology, Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Nurzyński
- Department of Oncology, Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Dominika Mękal
- Department of Oncology Propaedeutics, Medical University of Warsaw, 01-445 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Czerw
- Department of Health Economics and Medical Law, Medical University of Warsaw, 01-445 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Economic and System Analyses, National Institute of Public Health NIH-National Research Institute, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Sygit
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland
| | - Andrzej Deptała
- Department of Oncology Propaedeutics, Medical University of Warsaw, 01-445 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Oncology, Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
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34
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Pearce H, Croft W, Nicol SM, Margielewska-Davies S, Powell R, Cornall R, Davis SJ, Marcon F, Pugh MR, Fennell É, Powell-Brett S, Mahon BS, Brown RM, Middleton G, Roberts K, Moss P. Tissue-Resident Memory T Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Coexpress PD-1 and TIGIT and Functional Inhibition Is Reversible by Dual Antibody Blockade. Cancer Immunol Res 2023; 11:435-449. [PMID: 36689623 PMCID: PMC10068448 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-22-0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a poor clinical outlook. Responses to immune checkpoint blockade are suboptimal and a much more detailed understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment is needed if this situation is to be improved. Here, we characterized tumor-infiltrating T-cell populations in patients with PDAC using cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) and single-cell RNA sequencing. T cells were the predominant immune cell subset observed within tumors. Over 30% of CD4+ T cells expressed a CCR6+CD161+ Th17 phenotype and 17% displayed an activated regulatory T-cell profile. Large populations of CD8+ tissue-resident memory (TRM) T cells were also present and expressed high levels of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and TIGIT. A population of putative tumor-reactive CD103+CD39+ T cells was also observed within the CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes population. The expression of PD-1 ligands was limited largely to hemopoietic cells whilst TIGIT ligands were expressed widely within the tumor microenvironment. Programmed death-ligand 1 and CD155 were expressed within the T-cell area of ectopic lymphoid structures and colocalized with PD-1+TIGIT+ CD8+ T cells. Combinatorial anti-PD-1 and TIGIT blockade enhanced IFNγ secretion and proliferation of T cells in the presence of PD-1 and TIGIT ligands. As such, we showed that the PDAC microenvironment is characterized by the presence of substantial populations of TRM cells with an exhausted PD-1+TIGIT+ phenotype where dual checkpoint receptor blockade represents a promising avenue for future immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden Pearce
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wayne Croft
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Computational Biology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha M. Nicol
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Margielewska-Davies
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Powell
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Cornall
- Nuffield Department of Medicine and Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J. Davis
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine and Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Marcon
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew R. Pugh
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Éanna Fennell
- Health Research Institute, Bernal Institute and School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Sarah Powell-Brett
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Brinder S. Mahon
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel M. Brown
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gary Middleton
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Roberts
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Moss
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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35
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Balsano R, Zanuso V, Pirozzi A, Rimassa L, Bozzarelli S. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: The Gray Curtain of Immunotherapy and Spikes of Lights. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:3871-3885. [PMID: 37185406 PMCID: PMC10136659 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30040293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a dismal disease with a poor 5-year overall survival rate (~10%). The revolution of immunotherapy in clinical oncology has not substantially changed clinical outcome for patients with PDAC. Despite outstanding efforts, neither immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) alone, nor in combination with chemotherapy or targeted therapies have shown encouraging results. This failure mirrors the lack of knowledge about the real key players of immune system senescence and the complexity of the tumor microenvironment in PDAC. However, some hope can be derived from PARP-inhibitor combinations, vaccines, and CAR-T-cells therapy. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the latest updates about the use of ICIs in PDAC, focusing on clinical evidence and ongoing studies highlighting explanations for the failure of immunotherapy and possible solutions.
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36
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Li Y, Xiang S, Pan W, Wang J, Zhan H, Liu S. Targeting tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy: Current research and future perspective. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1166860. [PMID: 37064113 PMCID: PMC10090519 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1166860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant tumors with increased incidence rate. The effect of surgery combined with chemoradiotherapy on survival of patients is unsatisfactory. New treatment strategy such as immunotherapy need to be investigated. The accumulation of desmoplastic stroma, infiltration of immunosuppressive cells including myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumor associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs), as well as tumor associated cytokine such as TGF-β, IL-10, IL-35, CCL5 and CXCL12 construct an immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer, which presents challenges for immunotherapy. In this review article, we explore the roles and mechanism of immunosuppressive cells and lymphocytes in establishing an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. In addition, immunotherapy strategies for pancreatic cancer based on tumor microenvironment including immune checkpoint inhibitors, targeting extracellular matrix (ECM), interfering with stromal cells or cytokines in TME, cancer vaccines and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are also discussed. It is necessary to identify an approach of immunotherapy in combination with other modalities to produce a synergistic effect with increased response rates in pancreatic cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuai Xiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjun Pan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Operating Room, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hanxiang Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Shanglong Liu, ; Hanxiang Zhan,
| | - Shanglong Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Shanglong Liu, ; Hanxiang Zhan,
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37
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Attebury H, Daley D. The Gut Microbiome and Pancreatic Cancer Development and Treatment. Cancer J 2023; 29:49-56. [PMID: 36957973 PMCID: PMC10042586 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000647] [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] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Changes in the gut microbiome have been increasingly shown to accompany oncogenesis across various tumors. Similarly, microbial dysbiosis was found to be associated with pancreatic cancer progression and survival outcomes, expanding the field of tumor microenvironment research in pancreatic cancer. Mechanistic studies in pancreatic cancer models implicate components of the gut and pancreatic cancer microbiome in regulating tumorigenesis by altering cancer cell signaling, modulating immune function, and influencing the efficacy of current therapies in pancreatic cancer. This review discusses the outcomes of microbial modulation across various preclinical and clinical studies and highlights ongoing trials targeting the microbiome for pancreatic cancer therapy.
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38
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Chan YT, Tan HY, Lu Y, Zhang C, Cheng CS, Wu J, Wang N, Feng Y. Pancreatic melatonin enhances anti-tumor immunity in pancreatic adenocarcinoma through regulating tumor-associated neutrophils infiltration and NETosis. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:1554-1567. [PMID: 37139434 PMCID: PMC10150138 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment contributes to poor prognosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) patients. Proper regulation could improve survival. Melatonin is an endogenous hormone that delivers multiple bioactivities. Here we showed that pancreatic melatonin level is associated with patients' survival. In PAAD mice models, melatonin supplementation suppressed tumor growth, while blockade of melatonin pathway exacerbated tumor progression. This anti-tumor effect was independent of cytotoxicity but associated with tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), and TANs depletion reversed effects of melatonin. Melatonin induced TANs infiltration and activation, therefore induced cell apoptosis of PAAD cells. Cytokine arrays revealed that melatonin had minimal impact on neutrophils but induced secretion of Cxcl2 from tumor cells. Knockdown of Cxcl2 in tumor cells abolished neutrophil migration and activation. Melatonin-induced neutrophils presented an N1-like anti-tumor phenotype, with increased neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) causing tumor cell apoptosis through cell-to-cell contact. Proteomics analysis revealed that this reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated inhibition was fueled by fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in neutrophils, while FAO inhibitor abolished the anti-tumor effect. Analysis of PAAD patient specimens revealed that CXCL2 expression was associated with neutrophil infiltration. CXCL2, or TANs, combined with NET marker, can better predict patients' prognosis. Collectively, we discovered an anti-tumor mechanism of melatonin through recruiting N1-neutrophils and beneficial NET formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yau-tuen Chan
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hor-yue Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Chinese Herbal Medicine Drug Development, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuanjun Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chien-shan Cheng
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Junyu Wu
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Corresponding authors.
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39
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Tumor immunology. Clin Immunol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818006-8.00003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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40
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Fawaz A, Abdel-Rahman O. Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer: Challenges for Clinical Management. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:3589-3598. [PMID: 36597515 PMCID: PMC9805723 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s340719] [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] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a significant worldwide health problem with a poor prognosis. A borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (BR-PDAC) is a tumor with limited vascular involvement that is technically resectable but with a high risk of positive margins (R1 resection). Objective To identify the current challenges that exist in the management of BR-PDAC. Methods A review of the literature was conducted to identify articles discussing the definitions and management of BR-PDAC. Key Findings Several anatomic definitions of BR-PDAC exist, and there is significant heterogeneity in their utilization across published trials. To improve the odds of a margin negative (R0) resection, a neoadjuvant treatment approach involving chemotherapy with or without radiation is currently preferred. While supporting the efficacy of a neoadjuvant approach in BR-PDAC, the largest published randomized trials have utilized older gemcitabine-based regimens. Recently published Phase II evidence and meta-analyses have supported the use of modern multi-agent regimens such as FOLFIRINOX. The utility of adding radiation to a chemotherapy backbone remains in question. Due to remnant fibrosis and edema following neoadjuvant therapy, accurately selecting patients for resection based on a restaging CT scan is challenging. Furthermore, the role of adjuvant therapy in BR-PDAC patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy needs to be defined. Conclusion Though progress has been made, the optimal management of BR-PDAC is uncertain. Phase III trials utilizing modern chemotherapeutic regimens are needed to establish a standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Fawaz
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Omar Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,Correspondence: Omar Abdel-Rahman, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross, Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1Z2, Canada, Tel +1 780-432-8290, Email
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41
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Akhuba L, Tigai Z, Shek D. Where Do We Stand with Immunotherapy for Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Synopsis of Clinical Outcomes. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123196. [PMID: 36551952 PMCID: PMC9775646 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer-related mortality in both sexes across the globe. It is associated with extremely poor prognosis and remains a critical burden worldwide due to its low survival rates. Histologically, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) accounts for 80% of all pancreatic cancers; the majority of which are diagnosed at advanced stages, which makes them ineligible for curative surgery. Conventional chemotherapy provides a five-year overall survival rate of less than 8% forcing scientists and clinicians to search for better treatment strategies. Recent discoveries in cancer immunology have resulted in the incorporation of immunotherapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Particularly, immune-checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapies and cancer vaccines have already shifted guidelines for some malignancies, although their efficacy in PDAC has yet to be elucidated. In this review, we summarize the existing clinical data on immunotherapy clinical outcomes in patients with advanced or metastatic PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liia Akhuba
- Blacktown Mt Druitt Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2148, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2150, Australia
| | - Zhanna Tigai
- Accreditation Centre, RUDN University, Moscow 117198, Russia
| | - Dmitrii Shek
- Blacktown Mt Druitt Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2148, Australia
- Blacktown Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2148, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-412-03-55-33
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42
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Gong X, Zhu Y, Zhang Q, Qiu X, Lu C, Tong F, Wang Q, Kong W, Zhou H, Liu B, Zhou Y, Du J. Efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in advanced pancreatic cancer: A real world study in Chinese cohort. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2143154. [PMID: 36412232 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2143154] [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: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous clinical studies had not shown expected results in advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) with single-agent checkpoint inhibitors. Until the present day, little is known about their performance in real-world settings. So, in this study, we investigate the ICIs' efficacy and safety in Chinese APC patients. Patients with APC who received ICIs between November 2018 to June 2021 were enrolled in this retrospective study. The efficacy end points included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and adverse events (AEs). This study included 104 patients and the median OS (mOS) and median PFS (mPFS) were 9.1 and 5.4 months, respectively. In the subgroup analyses, the mOS was longer for patients receiving combined radiotherapy than for those that didn't (13.8 vs 7.0 months, p < .001), whereas the mPFS was also longer, and the ORR and DCR were higher. Specifically, the mOS was longer for patients who had received a combination of chemotherapy than for those combined with targeted therapy (11.6 vs 5.6 months, p = .002), with the mPFS being also longer. ICIs as a first-line treatment could resulted to better survival. The mOS was longer for patients with a high TMB compared to those with low (19.3 vs 7.2 months, p = .004), whereas AEs were considered to be tolerable. The combination therapy of ICIs was proved to be safe and effective for treating APC, especially the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which would benefit from additional prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Gong
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yahui Zhu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianning Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Qiu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changchang Lu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Tong
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiaoli Wang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiwei Kong
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haihui Zhou
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Baorui Liu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yujie Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juan Du
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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43
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Bannoura SF, Khan HY, Azmi AS. KRAS G12D targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer: Has the fortress been conquered? Front Oncol 2022; 12:1013902. [PMID: 36531078 PMCID: PMC9749787 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1013902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS mutations are among the most commonly occurring mutations in cancer. After being deemed undruggable for decades, KRAS G12C specific inhibitors showed that small molecule inhibitors can be developed against this notorious target. At the same time, there is still no agent that could target KRAS G12D which is the most common KRAS mutation and is found in the majority of KRAS-mutated pancreatic tumors. Nevertheless, significant progress is now being made in the G12D space with the development of several compounds that can bind to and inhibit KRAS G12D, most notably MRTX1133. Exciting advances in this field also include an immunotherapeutic approach that uses adoptive T-cell transfer to specifically target G12D in pancreatic cancer. In this mini-review, we discuss recent advances in KRAS G12D targeting and the potential for further clinical development of the various approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar F. Bannoura
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Husain Yar Khan
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Asfar S. Azmi
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States
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Kast V, Nadernezhad A, Pette D, Gabrielyan A, Fusenig M, Honselmann KC, Stange DE, Werner C, Loessner D. A Tumor Microenvironment Model of Pancreatic Cancer to Elucidate Responses toward Immunotherapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2022:e2201907. [PMID: 36417691 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a devastating malignancy with minimal treatment options. Standard-of-care therapy, including surgery and chemotherapy, is unsatisfactory, and therapies harnessing the immune system have been unsuccessful in clinical trials. Resistance to therapy and disease progression are mediated by the tumor microenvironment, which contains excessive amounts of extracellular matrix and stromal cells, acting as a barrier to drug delivery. There is a lack of preclinical pancreatic cancer models that reconstruct the extracellular, cellular, and biomechanical elements of tumor tissues to assess responses toward immunotherapy. To address this limitation and explore the effects of immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy, a multicellular 3D cancer model using a star-shaped poly(ethylene glycol)-heparin hydrogel matrix is developed. Human pancreatic cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and myeloid cells are grown encapsulated in hydrogels to mimic key components of tumor tissues, and cell responses toward treatment are assessed. Combining the CD11b agonist ADH-503 with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy and chemotherapy leads to a significant reduction in tumor cell viability, proliferation, metabolic activity, immunomodulation, and secretion of immunosuppressive and tumor growth-promoting cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Kast
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ali Nadernezhad
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dagmar Pette
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anastasiia Gabrielyan
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maximilian Fusenig
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kim C Honselmann
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Daniel E Stange
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Medical Faculty, Technical University Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Carsten Werner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany.,Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technical University Dresden, Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V, Max Bergmann Centre of Biomaterials, Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany.,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
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45
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Bockorny B, Grossman JE, Hidalgo M. Facts and Hopes in Immunotherapy of Pancreatic Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:4606-4617. [PMID: 35775964 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat. For patients with advanced and metastatic disease, chemotherapy has yielded only modest incremental benefits, which are not durable. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of other solid tumors by leading to cures where none existed only a decade ago, yet it has made few inroads with PDAC. A host of trials with promising preclinical data have failed, except for in a small minority of patients with selected biomarkers. There is, however, a glimmer of hope, which we seek to cultivate. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of the uniquely immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) in PDAC, learnings from completed trials of checkpoint inhibitors, TME modifiers, cellular and vaccine therapies, oncolytic viruses, and other novel approaches. We go on to discuss our expectations for improved preclinical models of immunotherapy in PDAC, new approaches to modifying the TME including the myeloid compartment, and emerging biomarkers to better select patients who may benefit from immunotherapy. We also discuss improvements in clinical trial design specific to immunotherapy that will help us better measure success when we find it. Finally, we discuss the urgent imperative to better design and execute bold, but rational, combination trials of novel agents designed to cure patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bockorny
- Division of Medical Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Manuel Hidalgo
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York
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46
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Panebianco C, Ciardiello D, Villani A, Maiorano BA, Latiano TP, Maiello E, Perri F, Pazienza V. Insights into the role of gut and intratumor microbiota in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma as new key players in preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic perspective. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:997-1007. [PMID: 34838957 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Microbiota consists of a dynamic organization of bacteria, viruses, archaea, and fungal species involved in a number of vital functions spanning from the digestion of carbohydrates, vitamin synthesis, involvement in immune system to drug metabolism. More than 95 % of microbiota resides within the gut and it is essential for maintaining gut homeostasis. Dysregulation of gut microbiota contributes to the onset of several non-communicable diseases including cancer. Among the latter, pancreatic cancer is catching the attention of scientists around the globe being one of the most aggressive and resistant to therapies positioning the pancreatic cancer as one of the leading causes of death from cancer worldwide. In recent years, several studies have shown that the gut and tumor microbiota play a key role in the development, progression and prognosis of PDAC, mainly due to microbial ability to modulate host immune system and metabolize drugs. This review will focus on the new insights into the role of the microbiota as a new key player in pancreatic cancer PDAC development and prognosis by enlightening the microbial potential to interact with chemo/immunotherapeutic drugs and to modulate tumor microenvironment, thus impacting on cancer therapy success with the aim to pave the way to new integrative and interventional diagnostics or therapeutics approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Panebianco
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Davide Ciardiello
- Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; Oncology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Annacandida Villani
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Brigida Anna Maiorano
- Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziana Pia Latiano
- Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Evaristo Maiello
- Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Francesco Perri
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Valerio Pazienza
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
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47
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Ware MB, Wolfarth AA, Goon JB, Ezeanya UI, Dhar S, Ferrando-Martinez S, Lee BH. The Role of Interleukin-7 in the Formation of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures and Their Prognostic Value in Gastrointestinal Cancers. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOTHERAPY AND PRECISION ONCOLOGY 2022; 5:105-117. [PMID: 36483588 PMCID: PMC9714415 DOI: 10.36401/jipo-22-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies for the treatment of solid tumors continue to develop in preclinical and clinical research settings. Unfortunately, for many patients the tumor fails to respond or becomes resistant to therapies such as checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) targeting programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4). In many cancers, failed response to CPIs can be attributed to poor T cell infiltration, dominant immunosuppression, and exhausted immune responses. In gastrointestinal (GI) cancers T cell infiltration can be dismal, with several reports finding that CD8+ T cells compose less than 2% of all cells within the tumor. Organized aggregates of lymphocytes, antigen-presenting cells, and vessels, together termed tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs), are hypothesized to be a major source of T cells within solid tumors. The intratumoral formation of these organized immune centers appears to rely on intricate cytokine and chemokine signaling to heterogeneous cell populations such as B and T cells, innate lymphoid cells, fibroblasts, and dendritic cells. In GI cancers, the presence and density of TLSs provide prognostic value for predicting outcome and survival. Further, TLS presence and density associates with favorable responses to CPIs in many cancers. This review highlights the prognostic value of TLSs in GI cancers, the role of the homeostatic cytokine interleukin-7 (IL-7) in TLS formation, and the induction of TLSs in solid tumors by novel therapeutics.
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48
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Savani M, Shroff RT. Decision-Making Regarding Perioperative Therapy in Individuals with Localized Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:961-978. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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49
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Mukherji R, Debnath D, Hartley ML, Noel MS. The Role of Immunotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:6864-6892. [PMID: 36290818 PMCID: PMC9600738 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29100541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the most lethal cancers globally, with a significant need for improved therapeutic options. While the recent breakthroughs of immunotherapy through checkpoint inhibitors have dramatically changed treatment paradigms in other malignancies based on considerable survival benefits, this is not so for pancreatic cancer. Chemotherapies with modest benefits are still the cornerstone of advanced pancreatic cancer treatment. Pancreatic cancers are inherently immune-cold tumors and have been largely refractory to immunotherapies in clinical trials. Understanding and overcoming the current failures of immunotherapy through elucidating resistance mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic approaches are essential to harnessing the potential durable benefits of immune-modulating therapy in pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetu Mukherji
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Dipanjan Debnath
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medstar Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Marion L. Hartley
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Marcus S. Noel
- The Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
- Correspondence:
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50
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Yamamoto K, Iwadate D, Kato H, Nakai Y, Tateishi K, Fujishiro M. Targeting autophagy as a therapeutic strategy against pancreatic cancer. J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:603-618. [PMID: 35727403 PMCID: PMC9392712 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-022-01889-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Macroautophagy (hereafter autophagy) is a catabolic process through which cytosolic components are captured in the autophagosome and degraded in the lysosome. Autophagy plays two major roles: nutrient recycling under starvation or stress conditions and maintenance of cellular homeostasis by removing the damaged organelles or protein aggregates. In established cancer cells, autophagy-mediated nutrient recycling promotes tumor progression, whereas in normal/premalignant cells, autophagy suppresses tumor initiation by eliminating the oncogenic/harmful molecules. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly disease that is refractory to most currently available treatment modalities, including immune checkpoint blockade and molecular-targeted therapy. One prominent feature of PDAC is its constitutively active and elevated autophagy-lysosome function, which enables PDAC to thrive in its nutrient-scarce tumor microenvironment. In addition to metabolic support, autophagy promotes PDAC progression in a metabolism-independent manner by conferring resistance to therapeutic treatment or facilitating immune evasion. Besides to cell-autonomous autophagy in cancer cells, host autophagy (autophagy in non-cancer cells) supports PDAC progression, further highlighting autophagy as a promising therapeutic target in PDAC. Based on a growing list of compelling preclinical evidence, there are numerous ongoing clinical trials targeting the autophagy-lysosome pathway in PDAC. Given the multifaceted and context-dependent roles of autophagy in both cancer cells and normal host cells, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the tumor-promoting roles of autophagy as well as of the consequences of autophagy inhibition is necessary for the development of autophagy inhibition-based therapies against PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Dosuke Iwadate
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yousuke Nakai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Keisuke Tateishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Fujishiro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
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