1
|
Albert V, Bruss C, Tümen D, Piendl G, Weber F, Dahl E, Seitz S, Ortmann O, Wege AK, Brockhoff G. HER4 Affects Sensitivity to Tamoxifen and Abemaciclib in Luminal Breast Cancer Cells and Restricts Tumor Growth in MCF-7-Based Humanized Tumor Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7475. [PMID: 39000582 PMCID: PMC11242770 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The impact of the HER4 receptor on the growth and treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer is widely uncertain. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we generated stable HER4 knockout variants derived from the HER4-positive MCF-7, T-47D, and ZR-75-1 breast cancer cell lines. We investigated tumor cell proliferation as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms of tamoxifen, abemaciclib, AMG232, and NRG1 treatments as a function of HER4 in vitro. HER4 differentially affects the cellular response to tamoxifen and abemaciclib treatment. Most conspicuous is the increased sensitivity of MCF-7 in vitro upon HER4 knockout and the inhibition of cell proliferation by NRG1. Additionally, we assessed tumor growth and immunological effects as responses to tamoxifen and abemaciclib therapy in humanized tumor mice (HTM) based on MCF-7 HER4-wildtype and the corresponding HER4-knockout cells. Without any treatment, the enhanced MCF-7 tumor growth in HTM upon HER4 knockout suggests a tumor-suppressive effect of HER4 under preclinical but human-like conditions. This phenomenon is associated with an increased HER2 expression in MCF-7 in vivo. Independent of HER4, abemaciclib and tamoxifen treatment considerably inhibited tumor growth in these mice. However, abemaciclib-treated hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients with tumor-associated mdm2 gene copy gains or pronounced HER4 expression showed a reduced event-free survival. Evidently, the presence of HER4 affects the efficacy of tamoxifen and abemaciclib treatment in different estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells, even to different extents, and is associated with unfavorable outcomes in abemaciclib-treated patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veruschka Albert
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christina Bruss
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Deniz Tümen
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Piendl
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Florian Weber
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, 93093 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Edgar Dahl
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Stephan Seitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anja K Wege
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gero Brockhoff
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93935 Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sun W, Xie S, Liu SF, Hu X, Xing D. Evolving Tumor Characteristics and Smart Nanodrugs for Tumor Immunotherapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3919-3942. [PMID: 38708176 PMCID: PMC11070166 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s453265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Typical physiological characteristics of tumors, such as weak acidity, low oxygen content, and upregulation of certain enzymes in the tumor microenvironment (TME), provide survival advantages when exposed to targeted attacks by drugs and responsive nanomedicines. Consequently, cancer treatment has significantly progressed in recent years. However, the evolution and adaptation of tumor characteristics still pose many challenges for current treatment methods. Therefore, efficient and precise cancer treatments require an understanding of the heterogeneity degree of various factors in cancer cells during tumor evolution to exploit the typical TME characteristics and manage the mutation process. The highly heterogeneous tumor and infiltrating stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular components collectively form a unique TME, which plays a crucial role in tumor malignancy, including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and immune escape. Therefore, the development of new treatment methods that can adapt to the evolutionary characteristics of tumors has become an intense focus in current cancer treatment research. This paper explores the latest understanding of cancer evolution, focusing on how tumors use new antigens to shape their "new faces"; how immune system cells, such as cytotoxic T cells, regulatory T cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells, help tumors become "invisible", that is, immune escape; whether the diverse cancer-associated fibroblasts provide support and coordination for tumors; and whether it is possible to attack tumors in reverse. This paper discusses the limitations of targeted therapy driven by tumor evolution factors and explores future strategies and the potential of intelligent nanomedicines, including the systematic coordination of tumor evolution factors and adaptive methods, to meet this therapeutic challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenshe Sun
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaowei Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi Feng Liu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaokun Hu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongming Xing
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bruss C, Albert V, Seitz S, Blaimer S, Kellner K, Pohl F, Ortmann O, Brockhoff G, Wege AK. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy in ER +, HER2 +, and triple-negative -specific breast cancer based humanized tumor mice enhances anti-PD-L1 treatment efficacy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1355130. [PMID: 38742103 PMCID: PMC11089195 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1355130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pre-operative radiation therapy is not currently integrated into the treatment protocols for breast cancer. However, transforming immunological "cold" breast cancers by neoadjuvant irradiation into their "hot" variants is supposed to elicit an endogenous tumor immune defense and, thus, enhance immunotherapy efficiency. We investigated cellular and immunological effects of sub-lethal, neoadjuvant irradiation of ER pos., HER2 pos., and triple-negative breast cancer subtypes in-vitro and in-vivo in humanized tumor mice (HTM). This mouse model is characterized by a human-like immune system and therefore facilitates detailed analysis of the mechanisms and efficiency of neoadjuvant, irradiation-induced "in-situ vaccination", especially in the context of concurrently applied checkpoint therapy. Similar to clinical appearances, we observed a gradually increased immunogenicity from the luminal over the HER2-pos. to the triple negative subtype in HTM indicated by an increasing immune cell infiltration into the tumor tissue. Anti-PD-L1 therapy divided the HER2-pos. and triple negative HTM groups into responder and non-responder, while the luminal HTMs were basically irresponsive. Irradiation alone was effective in the HER2-pos. and luminal subtype-specific HTM and was supportive for overcoming irresponsiveness to single anti-PD-L1 treatment. The treatment success correlated with a significantly increased T cell proportion and PD-1 expression in the spleen. In all subtype-specific HTM combination therapy proved most effective in diminishing tumor growth, enhancing the immune response, and converted non-responder into responder during anti-PD-L1 therapy. In HTM, neoadjuvant irradiation reinforced anti-PD-L1 checkpoint treatment of breast cancer in a subtype -specific manner. According to the "bench to bedside" principle, this study offers a vital foundation for clinical translating the use of neoadjuvant irradiation in the context of checkpoint therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Bruss
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Veruschka Albert
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Seitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Blaimer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kellner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Pohl
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gero Brockhoff
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anja K. Wege
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ning JY, Zhang ZH, Zhang J, Liu YM, Li GC, Wang AM, Li Y, Shan X, Wang JH, Zhang X, Zhao Y. Ginsenoside Rg3 decreases breast cancer stem-like phenotypes through impairing MYC mRNA stability. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:601-615. [PMID: 38455405 PMCID: PMC10915333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are responsible for breast cancer metastasis, recurrence and treatment resistance, all of which make BCSCs potential drivers of breast cancer aggression. Ginsenoside Rg3, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, was reported to have multiple antitumor functions. Here, we revealed a novel effect of Rg3 on BCSCs. Rg3 inhibits breast cancer cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Importantly, Rg3 suppressed mammosphere formation, reduced the expression of stemness-related transcription factors, including c-Myc, Oct4, Sox2 and Lin28, and diminished ALDH(+) populations. Moreover, tumor-bearing mice treated with Rg3 exhibited robust delay of tumor growth and a decrease in tumor-initiating frequency. In addition, we found that Rg3 suppressed breast cancer stem-like properties mainly through inhibiting MYC expression. Mechanistically, Rg3 accelerated the degradation of MYC mRNA by enhancing the expression of the let-7 family, which was demonstrated to bind to the MYC 3' untranslated region (UTR). In conclusion, our findings reveal the remarkable suppressive effect of Rg3 on BCSCs, suggesting that Rg3 is a promising therapeutic treatment for breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yue Ning
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Zi-Han Zhang
- Medical College of Tianjin UniversityTianjin 300072, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Department of Oncology, People’s Hospital of NingxiangNingxiang 410600, Hunan, China
| | - Yong-Min Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Guan-Chu Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430000, China
| | - A-Man Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiu Shan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| | - Ju-Hong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijing 100021, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University Cardiovascular HospitalDalian 116000, Liaoning, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical UniversityDalian 116011, Liaoning, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mass E, Nimmerjahn F, Kierdorf K, Schlitzer A. Tissue-specific macrophages: how they develop and choreograph tissue biology. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:563-579. [PMID: 36922638 PMCID: PMC10017071 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 122.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are innate immune cells that form a 3D network in all our tissues, where they phagocytose dying cells and cell debris, immune complexes, bacteria and other waste products. Simultaneously, they produce growth factors and signalling molecules - such activities not only promote host protection in response to invading microorganisms but are also crucial for organ development and homeostasis. There is mounting evidence of macrophages orchestrating fundamental physiological processes, such as blood vessel formation, adipogenesis, metabolism and central and peripheral neuronal function. In parallel, novel methodologies have led to the characterization of tissue-specific macrophages, with distinct subpopulations of these cells showing different developmental trajectories, transcriptional programmes and life cycles. Here, we summarize our growing knowledge of macrophage diversity and how macrophage subsets orchestrate tissue development and function. We further interrelate macrophage ontogeny with their core functions across tissues, that is, the signalling events within the macrophage niche that may control organ functionality during development, homeostasis and ageing. Finally, we highlight the open questions that will need to be addressed by future studies to better understand the tissue-specific functions of distinct macrophage subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Mass
- Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Falk Nimmerjahn
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katrin Kierdorf
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlitzer
- Quantitative Systems Biology, Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kumari R, Feuer G, Bourré L. Humanized Mouse Models for Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e852. [PMID: 37552031 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Breakthroughs in cancer treatment with immunotherapeutics have provided long-term patient benefits for many different types of cancer. However, complete response is not achieved in many patients and tumor types, and the mechanisms underlying this lack of response are poorly understood. Despite this, numerous new targets, therapeutics, and drug combinations are being developed and tested in clinical trials. Preclinical models that recapitulate the complex human tumor microenvironment and the interplay between tumor and immune cells within the cancer-immunity cycle are needed to improve our understanding and screen new therapeutics for efficacy and safety/toxicity. Humanized mice, encompassing human tumors and human immune cells engrafted on immunodeficient mice, have been widely used for many years in immuno-oncology, with developments to improve both the humanization and the translational value central to the next generation of models. In this overview, we discuss recent advances in humanized models relevant to immuno-oncology drug discovery, the advantages and limitations of such models, the application of humanized models for efficacy and safety assessments of immunotherapeutics, and the potential opportunities. © 2023 Crown Bioscience. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerold Feuer
- Crown Bioscience Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bruss C, Kellner K, Albert V, Hutchinson JA, Seitz S, Ortmann O, Brockhoff G, Wege AK. Immune Checkpoint Profiling in Humanized Breast Cancer Mice Revealed Cell-Specific LAG-3/PD-1/TIM-3 Co-Expression and Elevated PD-1/TIM-3 Secretion. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092615. [PMID: 37174080 PMCID: PMC10177290 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Checkpoint blockade is particularly based on PD-1/PD-L1-inhibiting antibodies. However, an efficient immunological tumor defense can be blocked not only by PD-(L)1 but also by the presence of additional immune checkpoint molecules. Here, we investigated the co-expression of several immune checkpoint proteins and the soluble forms thereof (e.g., PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3, PD-L1, PD-L2 and others) in humanized tumor mice (HTM) simultaneously harboring cell line-derived (JIMT-1, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7) or patient-derived breast cancer and a functional human immune system. We identified tumor-infiltrating T cells with a triple-positive PD-1, LAG-3 and TIM-3 phenotype. While PD-1 expression was increased in both the CD4 and CD8 T cells, TIM-3 was found to be upregulated particularly in the cytotoxic T cells in the MDA-MB-231-based HTM model. High levels of soluble TIM-3 and galectin-9 (a TIM-3 ligand) were detected in the serum. Surprisingly, soluble PD-L2, but only low levels of sPD-L1, were found in mice harboring PD-L1-positive tumors. Analysis of a dataset containing 3039 primary breast cancer samples on the R2 Genomics Analysis Platform revealed increased TIM-3, galectin-9 and LAG-3 expression, not only in triple-negative breast cancer but also in the HER2+ and hormone receptor-positive breast cancer subtypes. These data indicate that LAG-3 and TIM-3 represent additional key molecules within the breast cancer anti-immunity landscape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Bruss
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kellner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Veruschka Albert
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - James A Hutchinson
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Seitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gero Brockhoff
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anja K Wege
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and breast cancer: a good therapeutic candidate or not? A minireview. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:9017-9022. [PMID: 35941415 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07739-w] [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: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC), as the most common cancer among women, affects a great number of subjects around the world. This heterogenic disease is divided into several types and subtypes, and each subtype has various phenotypes and genotypes. Against BC, several options have been proposed, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapeutic agents. However, these approaches may have detrimental effects on health and life quality of patients. Hence, harnessing a therapeutic tool with high effectiveness and low side effects is required. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have created a new window to treat various disorders, like cancer, and among these, umbilical cord (UC)-derived MSCs have acquired much interest due to their advantages. Therefore, in this narrative review, the influences of UC-derived MSCs on BC were reviewed and summarized with a focus on the molecular mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis and treatment.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bruss C, Kellner K, Ortmann O, Seitz S, Brockhoff G, Hutchinson JA, Wege AK. Advanced Immune Cell Profiling by Multiparameter Flow Cytometry in Humanized Patient-Derived Tumor Mice. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2214. [PMID: 35565343 PMCID: PMC9103756 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
"Humanized" mice have been widely used for the characterization of human cancer progression and as a powerful preclinical model. Standardization of multicolor phenotyping could help to identify immune cell patterns involved in checkpoint-related complications. Therefore, we applied established protocols for immune cell profiling to our humanized Patient-Derived Xenograft (hPDX) model. hPDX are characterized by the co-existence of a human immune system and a patient-derived tumor transplant. These mice possess a human-like immune system after CD34+ stem cell transplantation while the reconstitution level of the immune system was not related to the quantity of transplanted CD34+ cells. Contamination ≤ 1.2% by CD3+ cells in the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant did not trigger abnormal T cell maturation. Different B and T cell differentiation stages were identified, as well as regulatory T cells (Tregs) and exhausted T cells that expressed TIGIT, PD-1, or KLRG1. Overall, the application of standardized protocols for the characterization of immune cells using flow cytometry will contribute to a better understanding of immune-oncologic processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Bruss
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Kerstin Kellner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Stephan Seitz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Gero Brockhoff
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| | - James A. Hutchinson
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
| | - Anja Kathrin Wege
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.B.); (K.K.); (O.O.); (S.S.); (G.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mandó P, Rivero SG, Rizzo MM, Pinkasz M, Levy EM. Targeting ADCC: A different approach to HER2 breast cancer in the immunotherapy era. Breast 2021; 60:15-25. [PMID: 34454323 PMCID: PMC8399304 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical outcome of patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplified breast carcinoma (BC) has improved with the development of anti-HER2 targeted therapies. However, patients can experience disease recurrence after curative intent and disease progression in the metastatic setting. In the current era of evolving immunotherapy agents, the understanding of the immune response against HER2 tumor cells developed by anti-HER2 antibodies (Abs) is rapidly evolving. Trastuzumab therapy promotes Natural Killer (NK) cell activation in patients with BC overexpressing HER2, indicating that the efficacy of short-term trastuzumab monotherapy, albeit direct inhibition of HER, could also be related with antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Currently, dual HER2 blockade using trastuzumab and pertuzumab is the standard of care in early and advanced disease as this combination could confer an additive effect in ADCC. In patients with disease relapse or progression, ADCC may be hampered by several factors such as FcγRIIIa polymorphism and an immunosuppressive environment, among others. Hence, new drug development strategies are being investigated aiming to boost the ADCC response triggered by anti-HER2 therapy. In this review, we summarize these strategies and the rationale, through mAbs engineering and combinatorial strategies, focusing on clinical results and ongoing trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Mandó
- Fundación Cáncer, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas "Norberto Quirno" (CEMIC), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Sergio G Rivero
- Instituto Alexander Fleming, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Manglio M Rizzo
- Cancer Immunobiology, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, CONICET, Universidad Austral, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina; Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Austral, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina
| | - Marina Pinkasz
- Centro de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Fundación Cáncer, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Estrella M Levy
- Centro de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Fundación Cáncer, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fiore PF, Di Matteo S, Tumino N, Mariotti FR, Pietra G, Ottonello S, Negrini S, Bottazzi B, Moretta L, Mortier E, Azzarone B. Interleukin-15 and cancer: some solved and many unsolved questions. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-001428. [PMID: 33203664 PMCID: PMC7674108 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Soluble interleukin (IL)-15 exists under two forms: as monomer (sIL-15) or as heterodimeric complex in association with sIL-15Rα (sIL-15/IL-15Rα). Both forms have been successfully tested in experimental tumor murine models and are currently undergoing investigation in phase I/II clinical trials. Despite more than 20 years research on IL-15, some controversial issues remain to be addressed. A first point concerns the detection of the sIL-15/IL-15Rα in plasma of healthy donors or patients with cancer and its biological significance. The second and third unsolved question regards the protumorigenic role of the IL-15/IL-15Rα complex in human cancer and the detrimental immunological consequences associated to prolonged exposure of natural killer (NK) cells to both forms of soluble IL-15, respectively. Data suggest that in vivo prolonged or repeated exposure to monomeric sIL-15 or the soluble complex may lead to NK hypo-responsiveness through the expansion of the CD8+/CD44+ T cell subset that would suppress NK cell functions. In vitro experiments indicate that soluble complex and monomeric IL-15 may cause NK hyporesponsiveness through a direct effect caused by their prolonged stimulation, suggesting that this mechanism could also be effective in vivo. Therefore, a better knowledge of IL-15 and a more appropriate use of both its soluble forms, in terms of concentrations and time of exposure, are essential in order to improve their therapeutic use. In cancer, the overproduction of sIL-15/IL-15Rα could represent a novel mechanism of immune escape. The soluble complex may act as a decoy cytokine unable to efficiently foster NK cells, or could induce NK hyporesponsiveness through an excessive and prolonged stimulation depending on the type of IL-15Rα isoforms associated. All these unsolved questions are not merely limited to the knowledge of IL-15 pathophysiology, but are crucial also for the therapeutic use of this cytokine. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss key unanswered issues on the heterogeneity and biological significance of IL-15 isoforms, analyzing both their cancer-related biological functions and their therapeutic implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Pietra
- Immuology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Selene Ottonello
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Barbara Bottazzi
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Erwan Mortier
- University of Nantes, CNRS, Inserm, CRCINA, University of Nantes, Nantes, France .,Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology, LabEx IGO, Nantes, France
| | - Bruno Azzarone
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Do-Thi VA, Lee H, Jeong HJ, Lee JO, Kim YS. Protective and Therapeutic Effects of an IL-15:IL-15Rα-Secreting Cell-Based Cancer Vaccine Using a Baculovirus System. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164039. [PMID: 34439192 PMCID: PMC8394727 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports the use of the BacMam system to deliver and express self-assembling IL-15 and IL-15Rα genes to murine B16F10 melanoma and CT26 colon cancer cells. BacMam-based IL-15 and IL-15Rα were well-expressed and assembled to form the biologically functional IL-15:IL-15Rα complex. Immunization with this IL-15:IL-15Rα cancer vaccine delayed tumor growth in mice by inducing effector memory CD4+ and CD8+ cells and effector NK cells which are tumor-infiltrating. It caused strong antitumor immune responses of CD8+ effector cells in a tumor-antigen specific manner both in vitro and in vivo and significantly attenuated Treg cells which a control virus-infected cancer vaccine could induce. Post-treatment with this cancer vaccine after a live cancer cell injection also prominently delayed the growth of the tumor. Collectively, we demonstrate a vaccine platform consisting of BacMam virus-infected B16F10 or CT26 cancer cells that secrete IL-15:IL-15Rα. This study is the first demonstration of a functionally competent soluble IL-15:IL-15Rα complex-related cancer vaccine using a baculovirus system and advocates that the BacMam system can be used as a secure and rapid method of producing a protective and therapeutic cancer vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Van Anh Do-Thi
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea; (V.A.D.-T.); (H.J.J.)
| | - Hayyoung Lee
- Institute of Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea;
| | - Hye Jin Jeong
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea; (V.A.D.-T.); (H.J.J.)
| | - Jie-Oh Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea; (V.A.D.-T.); (H.J.J.)
- Correspondence: (J.-O.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Young Sang Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.-O.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wege AK, Dreyer TF, Teoman A, Ortmann O, Brockhoff G, Bronger H. CX3CL1 Overexpression Prevents the Formation of Lung Metastases in Trastuzumab-Treated MDA-MB-453-Based Humanized Tumor Mice (HTM). Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102459. [PMID: 34070094 PMCID: PMC8158361 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In about 15–18% of breast cancers the HER2 gene is amplified, which allows an anti-HER2 treatment. However, about 50% of HER2-positive patients experience de novo or acquired resistance to the antibody-based therapy with trastuzumab. Therefore, the identification of predictive markers for therapy success and novel combination strategies is needed. Here we explored the impact of CX3CL1 on trastuzumab treatment efficiency and immunological mechanism involved in a humanized tumor mouse model. Trastuzumab treatment showed pronounced efficiency in CX3CL1 overexpressing cancer cells compared to low expressing cells preventing lung metastasis, while the administration of CX3CL1 shedding inhibition did not cause an enhanced treatment effect. Moreover, the application of shedding inhibitors to CX3CL1 overexpression tumors resulted in a slightly enhanced tumor growth. Therefore, the presence of CX3CL1 might predict a pronounced response to trastuzumab therapy in patients and should be investigated in a large cohort of HER2+ patients. Abstract CX3CL1 is a multifunctional chemokine that is involved in numerous biological processes, such as immune cell attraction and enhanced tumor immune cell interaction, but also in enhancing tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. The multifarious activity is partially determined by two CX3CL1 isoforms, a membrane-bound and a soluble version generated by proteolytic cleavage through proteases. Here, we investigated the impact of CX3CL1 overexpression in MDA-MB-453 and SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells. Moreover, we evaluated the therapeutic capacity of Matrix-Metalloproteinases-inhibitors TMI-1 and GI254023X in combination with the anti-HER2 antibody trastuzumab in vitro and in vivo. TMI-1 and GI254023X caused a reduced shedding of CX3CL1 and of HER2 in vitro but without effects on tumor cell proliferation or viability. In addition, trastuzumab treatment did not retard MDA-MB-453 cell expansion in vitro unless CX3CL1 was overexpressed upon transfection (MDA-MB-453CX3CL1). In humanized tumor mice, which show a coexistence of human tumor and human immune system, CX3CL1 overexpression resulted in a slightly enhanced tumor growth. However, trastuzumab treatment attenuated tumor growth of both MDA-MB-453CX3CL1 and empty vector transfected MDA-MB-453 transplanted mice but showed enhanced efficiency especially in preventing lung metastases in CX3CL1 overexpressing cancer cells. However, TMI-1 did not further enhance the trastuzumab treatment efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Kathrin Wege
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Cancer Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.T.); (O.O.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +(49)-(0)941-944-8913
| | - Tobias F. Dreyer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; (T.F.D.); (H.B.)
| | - Attila Teoman
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Cancer Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.T.); (O.O.); (G.B.)
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Cancer Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.T.); (O.O.); (G.B.)
| | - Gero Brockhoff
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Cancer Center Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (A.T.); (O.O.); (G.B.)
| | - Holger Bronger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; (T.F.D.); (H.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Guil-Luna S, Sedlik C, Piaggio E. Humanized Mouse Models to Evaluate Cancer Immunotherapeutics. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY-SERIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-050520-100526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is at the forefront of cancer treatment. The advent of numerous novel approaches to cancer immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint antibodies, adoptive transfer of CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) T cells and TCR (T cell receptor) T cells, NK (natural killer) cells, T cell engagers, oncolytic viruses, and vaccines, is revolutionizing the treatment for different tumor types. Some are already in the clinic, and many others are underway. However, not all patients respond, resistance develops, and as available therapies multiply there is a need to further understand how they work, how to prioritize their clinical evaluation, and how to combine them. For this, animal models have been highly instrumental, and humanized mice models (i.e., immunodeficient mice engrafted with human immune and cancer cells) represent a step forward, although they have several limitations. Here, we review the different humanized models available today, the approaches to overcome their flaws, their use for the evaluation of cancer immunotherapies, and their anticipated evolution as tools to help personalized clinical decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Guil-Luna
- Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Christine Sedlik
- Translational Research Department, Institut Curie Research Center, INSERM U932, PSL Research University, 75248 Paris, France;,
| | - Eliane Piaggio
- Translational Research Department, Institut Curie Research Center, INSERM U932, PSL Research University, 75248 Paris, France;,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wege AK, Kirchhammer N, Kazandjian LV, Prassl S, Brandt M, Piendl G, Ortmann O, Fischer S, Brockhoff G. A novel rabbit derived anti-HER2 antibody with pronounced therapeutic effectiveness on HER2-positive breast cancer cells in vitro and in humanized tumor mice (HTM). J Transl Med 2020; 18:316. [PMID: 32799890 PMCID: PMC7429704 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02484-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antibody based cancer therapies have achieved convincing success rates combining enhanced tumor specificity and reduced side effects in patients. Trastuzumab that targets the human epidermal growth factor related receptor 2 (HER2) is one of the greatest success stories in this field. For decades, trastuzumab based treatment regimens are significantly improving the prognosis of HER2-positive breast cancer patients both in the metastatic and the (neo-) adjuvant setting. Nevertheless, ≥ 50% of trastuzumab treated patients experience de-novo or acquired resistance. Therefore, an enhanced anti-HER2 targeting with improved treatment efficiency is still aspired. Methods Here, we determined cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the treatment of HER2-positive BC cells with a new rabbit derived HER2 specific chimeric monoclonal antibody called “B100″. We evaluated the B100 treatment efficiency of HER2-positive BC cells with different sensitivity to trastuzumab both in vitro and in the presence of a human immune system in humanized tumor mice. Results B100 not only efficiently blocks cell proliferation but more importantly induces apoptotic tumor cell death. Detailed in vitro analyses of B100 in comparison to trastuzumab (and pertuzumab) revealed equivalent HER2 internalization and recycling capacity, similar Fc receptor signaling, but different HER2 epitope recognition with high binding and treatment efficiency. In trastuzumab resistant SK-BR-3 based humanized tumor mice the B100 treatment eliminated the primary tumor but even more importantly eradicated metastasized tumor cells in lung, liver, brain, and bone marrow. Conclusion Overall, B100 demonstrated an enhanced anti-tumor activity both in vitro and in an enhanced preclinical HTM in vivo model compared to trastuzumab or pertuzumab. Thus, the use of B100 is a promising option to complement and to enhance established treatment regimens for HER2-positive (breast) cancer and to overcome trastuzumab resistance. Extended preclinical analyses using appropriate models and clinical investigations are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Kathrin Wege
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Nicole Kirchhammer
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Gerhard Piendl
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Gero Brockhoff
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stripecke R, Münz C, Schuringa JJ, Bissig K, Soper B, Meeham T, Yao L, Di Santo JP, Brehm M, Rodriguez E, Wege AK, Bonnet D, Guionaud S, Howard KE, Kitchen S, Klein F, Saeb‐Parsy K, Sam J, Sharma AD, Trumpp A, Trusolino L, Bult C, Shultz L. Innovations, challenges, and minimal information for standardization of humanized mice. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e8662. [PMID: 32578942 PMCID: PMC7338801 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201708662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice xenotransplanted with human cells and/or expressing human gene products (also known as "humanized mice") recapitulate the human evolutionary specialization and diversity of genotypic and phenotypic traits. These models can provide a relevant in vivo context for understanding of human-specific physiology and pathologies. Humanized mice have advanced toward mainstream preclinical models and are now at the forefront of biomedical research. Here, we considered innovations and challenges regarding the reconstitution of human immunity and human tissues, modeling of human infections and cancer, and the use of humanized mice for testing drugs or regenerative therapy products. As the number of publications exploring different facets of humanized mouse models has steadily increased in past years, it is becoming evident that standardized reporting is needed in the field. Therefore, an international community-driven resource called "Minimal Information for Standardization of Humanized Mice" (MISHUM) has been created for the purpose of enhancing rigor and reproducibility of studies in the field. Within MISHUM, we propose comprehensive guidelines for reporting critical information generated using humanized mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renata Stripecke
- Regenerative Immune Therapies AppliedHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF)Hannover RegionGermany
| | - Christian Münz
- Viral ImmunobiologyInstitute of Experimental ImmunologyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Jan Jacob Schuringa
- Department of HematologyUniversity Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael Brehm
- University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMAUSA
| | | | - Anja Kathrin Wege
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsUniversity Cancer Center RegensburgRegensburgGermany
| | | | | | | | - Scott Kitchen
- University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | | | | | | | - Amar Deep Sharma
- Regenerative Immune Therapies AppliedHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Andreas Trumpp
- Division of Stem Cells and CancerGerman Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI‐STEM gGmbH)HeidelbergGermany
| | - Livio Trusolino
- Department of OncologyUniversity of Torino Medical SchoolTurinItaly
- Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO IRCCSCandioloItaly
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pang Z, Wang Y, Ding N, Chen X, Yang Y, Wang G, Liu Q, Du J. High PKD2 predicts poor prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma via promoting Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1324. [PMID: 30718593 PMCID: PMC6362154 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37285-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase D2 (PKD2) has been reported to be related with progression and invasion in various cancers. However, its prognostic value and the underlying mechanism in lung cancer remains unclear. Herein we evaluated the expression of PKD2 in lung adenocarcinoma and investigated its relationship with EMT. GSEA, TCGA and K-M plotter database were applied and revealed that high PKD2 expression predicted poor outcome and related with lymph nodes metastasis in lung cancer. IHC and qRT-PCR were performed and found PKD2 was elevated in lung adenocarcinoma and negatively related with OS (p = 0.015), PFS (p = 0.006) and the level of E-cadherin (p = 0.021). Experiment in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines demonstrated up-regulation of PKD2 led to high expression of mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, vim, mmp9 et al.) and EMT transcription factors(zeb1, twist, snail), and the results were reversed when PKD2 was knocked down. Further investigation showed that abrogation of PKD2 inhibited A549 cell migration, invasion, proliferation and induced cell arrest in G2/M phase. We concluded that high expression of PKD2 was associated with poor prognosis and cancer progression in lung adenocarcinoma patients by promoting EMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaofei Pang
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Ding
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yufan Yang
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghui Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajun Du
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Immunotherapy is one of the most exciting recent breakthroughs in the field of cancer treatment. Many different approaches are being developed and a number have already gained regulatory approval or are under investigation in clinical trials. However, learning from the past, preclinical animal models often insufficiently reflect the physiological situation in humans, which subsequently causes treatment failures in clinical trials. Due to species-specific differences in most parts of the immune system, the transfer of knowledge from preclinical studies to clinical trials is eminently challenging. Human tumor cell line-based or patient-derived xenografts in immunocompromised mice have been successfully applied in the preclinical testing of cytotoxic or molecularly targeted agents, but naturally these systems lack the human immune system counterpart. The co-transplantation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells or hematopoietic stem cells is employed to overcome this limitation. This review summarizes some important aspects of the different available tumor xenograft mouse models, their history, and their implementation in drug development and personalized therapy. Moreover, recent progress, opportunities and limitations of different humanized mouse models will be discussed.
Collapse
|
19
|
Humanized Mice for the Study of Immuno-Oncology. Trends Immunol 2018; 39:748-763. [DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
|
20
|
Fercher C, Keshvari S, McGuckin MA, Barnard RT. Evolution of the magic bullet: Single chain antibody fragments for the targeted delivery of immunomodulatory proteins. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2017; 243:166-183. [PMID: 29256259 DOI: 10.1177/1535370217748575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunocytokines are fusion proteins that combine the specific antigen binding capacities of an antibody or derivative thereof and the potent bioactivity of a cytokine partner. These novel biopharmaceuticals have been directed to various targets of oncological as well as non-oncological origin and a handful of promising constructs are currently advancing in the clinical trial pipeline. Several factors such as the choice of a disease specific antigen, the antibody format and the modulatory nature of the payload are crucial, not only for therapeutic efficacy and safety but also for the commercial success of such a product. In this review, we provide an overview of the basic principles and obstacles in immunocytokine design with a specific focus on single chain antibody fragment-based constructs that employ interleukins as the immunoactive component. Impact statement Selective activation of the immune system in a variety of malignancies represents an attractive approach when existing strategies have failed to provide adequate treatment options. Immunocytokines as a novel class of bifunctional protein therapeutics have emerged recently and generated promising results in preclinical and clinical studies. In order to harness their full potential, multiple different aspects have to be taken into consideration. Several key points of these fusion constructs are discussed here and should provide an outline for the development of novel products based on an overview of selected formats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Fercher
- 1 School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sahar Keshvari
- 2 Inflammatory Diseases Biology and Therapeutics, Mater Research Institute - The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Michael A McGuckin
- 2 Inflammatory Diseases Biology and Therapeutics, Mater Research Institute - The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Ross T Barnard
- 1 School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.,3 Australian Research Council Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Muntasell A, Cabo M, Servitja S, Tusquets I, Martínez-García M, Rovira A, Rojo F, Albanell J, López-Botet M. Interplay between Natural Killer Cells and Anti-HER2 Antibodies: Perspectives for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1544. [PMID: 29181007 PMCID: PMC5694168 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) defines a subgroup of breast tumors with aggressive behavior. The addition of HER2-targeted antibodies (i.e., trastuzumab, pertuzumab) to chemotherapy significantly improves relapse-free and overall survival in patients with early-stage and advanced disease. Nonetheless, considerable proportions of patients develop resistance to treatment, highlighting the need for additional and co-adjuvant therapeutic strategies. HER2-specific antibodies can trigger natural killer (NK) cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and indirectly enhance the development of tumor-specific T cell immunity; both mechanisms contributing to their antitumor efficacy in preclinical models. Antibody-dependent NK cell activation results in the release of cytotoxic granules as well as the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IFNγ and TNFα) and chemokines. Hence, NK cell tumor suppressive functions include direct cytolytic killing of tumor cells as well as the regulation of subsequent antitumor adaptive immunity. Albeit tumors with gene expression signatures associated to the presence of cytotoxic lymphocyte infiltrates benefit from trastuzumab-based treatment, NK cell-related biomarkers of response/resistance to HER2-specific therapeutic antibodies in breast cancer patients remain elusive. Several variables, including (i) the configuration of the patient NK cell repertoire; (ii) tumor molecular features (i.e., estrogen receptor expression); (iii) concomitant therapeutic regimens (i.e., chemotherapeutic agents, tyrosine kinase inhibitors); and (iv) evasion mechanisms developed by progressive breast tumors, have been shown to quantitatively and qualitatively influence antibody-triggered NK cell responses. In this review, we discuss possible interventions for restoring/enhancing the therapeutic activity of HER2 therapeutic antibodies by harnessing NK cell antitumor potential through combinatorial approaches, including immune checkpoint blocking/stimulatory antibodies, cytokines and toll-like receptor agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aura Muntasell
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariona Cabo
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sonia Servitja
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Oncology, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignasi Tusquets
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Oncology, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez-García
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Oncology, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Rovira
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Oncology, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Joan Albanell
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Oncology, Hospital del Mar-CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain.,Univ. Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel López-Botet
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Univ. Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Guo Y, Luan L, Patil NK, Sherwood ER. Immunobiology of the IL-15/IL-15Rα complex as an antitumor and antiviral agent. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2017; 38:10-21. [PMID: 28888485 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-15 is essential for natural killer (NK), NKT and memory (m) CD8+ T cell development and function, and is currently under investigation as an immunotherapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer. Recently, the creation of IL-15 superagonist by complexing IL-15 and its high affinity receptor alpha (IL-15 Rα) in solution, inspired by the natural trans-presentation of IL-15, advances the potential of IL-15-based tumor immunotherapy. IL-15 superagonist shows promising advantages over monomeric IL-15 such as sustaining high circulating concentrations due to prolonged half-life and more potently stimulating NK and CD8+ T effector lymphocytes. So far, there are three different forms of recombinant IL-15 superagonist fusion protein based on configurational modifications. Gene therapy using engineered cells co-expressing IL-15/IL-15 Rα complex for cancer treatment is also emerging. All forms have demonstrated efficacy in causing tumor regression in animal studies, which provides strong rationale for advancing IL-15 superagonist through clinical trials. To date, there are fourteen phase I/II IL-15 superagonist trials in cancer patients and one phase I trial in HIV patients. Information generated by ongoing trials regarding the toxicity and efficacy of IL-15 superagonist is awaited. Finally, we elaborate on immunotoxicity caused by IL-15 superagonist in preclinical studies and discuss important safety considerations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Guo
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology. Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Anesthesiology. Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Liming Luan
- Department of Anesthesiology. Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Naeem K Patil
- Department of Anesthesiology. Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Edward R Sherwood
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology. Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Anesthesiology. Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
King J, Mir H, Singh S. Association of Cytokines and Chemokines in Pathogenesis of Breast Cancer. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 151:113-136. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|