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Liu Y, Mo CC, Hartley-Brown MA, Sperling AS, Midha S, Yee AJ, Bianchi G, Piper C, Tattersall A, Nadeem O, Laubach JP, Richardson PG. Targeting Ikaros and Aiolos: reviewing novel protein degraders for the treatment of multiple myeloma, with a focus on iberdomide and mezigdomide. Expert Rev Hematol 2024; 17:445-465. [PMID: 39054911 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2024.2382897] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) is evolving rapidly. Quadruplet regimens incorporating proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), and CD38 monoclonal antibodies have emerged as standard-of-care options for newly diagnosed MM, and numerous novel therapies have been approved for relapsed/refractory MM. However, there remains a need for novel options in multiple settings, including refractoriness to frontline standards of care. AREAS COVERED Targeting degradation of IKZF1 and IKZF3 - Ikaros and Aiolos - through modulation of cereblon, an E3 ligase substrate recruiter/receptor, is a key mechanism of action of the IMiDs and the CELMoD agents. Two CELMoD agents, iberdomide and mezigdomide, have demonstrated substantial preclinical and clinical activity in MM and have entered phase 3 investigation. Using a literature search methodology comprising searches of PubMed (unlimited time-frame) and international hematology/oncology conference abstracts (2019-2023), this paper reviews the importance of Ikaros and Aiolos in MM, the mechanism of action of the IMiDs and CELMoD agents and their relative potency for targeting Ikaros and Aiolos, and preclinical and clinical data on iberdomide and mezigdomide. EXPERT OPINION Emerging data suggest that iberdomide and mezigdomide have promising activity, including in IMiD-resistant settings and, pending phase 3 findings, may provide additional treatment options for patients with MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Clifton C Mo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monique A Hartley-Brown
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam S Sperling
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shonali Midha
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew J Yee
- Massachusetts General Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giada Bianchi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Piper
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alice Tattersall
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Omar Nadeem
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacob P Laubach
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul G Richardson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Shin E, Bak SH, Park T, Kim JW, Yoon SR, Jung H, Noh JY. Understanding NK cell biology for harnessing NK cell therapies: targeting cancer and beyond. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1192907. [PMID: 37539051 PMCID: PMC10395517 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1192907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene-engineered immune cell therapies have partially transformed cancer treatment, as exemplified by the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells in certain hematologic malignancies. However, there are several limitations that need to be addressed to target more cancer types. Natural killer (NK) cells are a type of innate immune cells that represent a unique biology in cancer immune surveillance. In particular, NK cells obtained from heathy donors can serve as a source for genetically engineered immune cell therapies. Therefore, NK-based therapies, including NK cells, CAR-NK cells, and antibodies that induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity of NK cells, have emerged. With recent advances in genetic engineering and cell biology techniques, NK cell-based therapies have become promising approaches for a wide range of cancers, viral infections, and senescence. This review provides a brief overview of NK cell characteristics and summarizes diseases that could benefit from NK-based therapies. In addition, we discuss recent preclinical and clinical investigations on the use of adoptive NK cell transfer and agents that can modulate NK cell activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunju Shin
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Ho Bak
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeho Park
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woo Kim
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Ran Yoon
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Haiyoung Jung
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Yoon Noh
- Aging Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Pugnetti L, Curci D, Bidoli C, Gerdol M, Celsi F, Renzo S, Paci M, Lega S, Nonnis M, Maestro A, Brumatti LV, Lionetti P, Pallavicini A, Licastro D, Edomi P, Decorti G, Stocco G, Lucafò M, Bramuzzo M. Gene expression profiling in white blood cells reveals new insights into the molecular mechanisms of thalidomide in children with inflammatory bowel disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114927. [PMID: 37257228 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Thalidomide has emerged as an effective immunomodulator in the treatment of pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refractory to standard therapies. Cereblon (CRBN), a component of E3 protein ligase complex that mediates ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of target proteins, has been identified as the primary target of thalidomide. CRBN plays a crucial role in thalidomide teratogenicity, however it is unclear whether it is also involved in the therapeutic effects in IBD patients. This study aimed at identifying the molecular mechanisms underpinning thalidomide action in pediatric IBD. In this study, ten IBD pediatric patients responsive to thalidomide were prospectively enrolled. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis and functional enrichment analysis were carried out on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained before and after twelve weeks of treatment with thalidomide. RNA-seq analysis revealed 378 differentially expressed genes before and after treatment with thalidomide. The most deregulated pathways were cytosolic calcium ion concentration, cAMP-mediated signaling, eicosanoid signaling and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases. Neuronal signaling mechanisms such as CREB signaling in neurons and axonal guidance signaling also emerged. Connectivity Map analysis revealed that thalidomide gene expression changes were similar to those exposed to MLN4924, an inhibitor of NEDD8 activating enzyme, suggesting that thalidomide exerts its immunomodulatory effects by acting on the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. In vitro experiments on cell lines confirmed the effect of thalidomide on candidate altered pathways observed in patients. These results represent a unique resource for enhanced understanding of thalidomide mechanism in pediatric patients with IBD, providing novel potential targets associated with drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Pugnetti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy
| | - Debora Curci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Carlotta Bidoli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Gerdol
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Fulvio Celsi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Sara Renzo
- Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCSS, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Paci
- Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCSS, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Lega
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Martina Nonnis
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Maestro
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Liza Vecchi Brumatti
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Lionetti
- Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCSS, 50139 Florence, Italy; Department NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Paolo Edomi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuliana Decorti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy; Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Gabriele Stocco
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy; Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marianna Lucafò
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Matteo Bramuzzo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137 Trieste, Italy
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Moscvin M, Evans B, Bianchi G. Dissecting molecular mechanisms of immune microenvironment dysfunction in multiple myeloma and precursor conditions. JOURNAL OF CANCER METASTASIS AND TREATMENT 2023; 9:17. [PMID: 38213954 PMCID: PMC10783205 DOI: 10.20517/2394-4722.2022.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease of clonally differentiated plasma cells. MM is almost always preceded by precursor conditions, monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), and smoldering MM (SMM) through largely unknown molecular events. Genetic alterations of the malignant plasma cells play a critical role in patient clinical outcomes. Del(17p), t(4;14), and additional chromosomal alterations such as del(1p32), gain(1q) and MYC translocations are involved in active MM evolution. Interestingly, these genetic alterations appear strikingly similar in transformed plasma cell (PC) clones from MGUS, SMM, and MM stages. Recent studies show that effectors of the innate and adaptive immune response show marked dysfunction and skewing towards a tolerant environment that favors disease progression. The MM myeloid compartment is characterized by myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), dendritic cells as well as M2-like phenotype macrophages that promote immune evasion. Major deregulations are found in the lymphoid compartment as well, with skewing towards immune tolerant Th17 and Treg and inhibition of CD8+ cytotoxic and CD4+ activated effector T cells. In summary, this review will provide an overview of the complex cross-talk between MM plasma cells and immune cells in the microenvironment and the molecular mechanisms promoting progression from precursor states to full-blown myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Moscvin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Benjamin Evans
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Giada Bianchi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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5
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Meng C, Chen S, He Q, Tan J, Wu J, Zhao J. IKZF3 modulates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting neuroinflammation. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109480. [PMID: 36525791 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109480] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a key mediator to the pathogenic cascades induced by cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. IKZF3, a key zinc finger transcription factor in the Ikaros family, has already been shown to modulate a wide range of cell functions and the production of inflammatory mediators. However, the effects of IKZF3 on inflammation and the potential mechanism after cerebral I/R injury remain unclear. In this study, we evaluated the effect of IKZF3 on HT-22 cells under oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R) in vitro and in mice with MACO in vivo. We found that IKZF3 expression peaked at 12 h after MCAO and OGD/R, and there was high expression of IKZF3 in brain tissues and HT-22 cells. IKZF3 knockdown exacerbated the damage by OGD-induced HT-22 cells injury and MCAO-induced brain injury in mice by regulating the production of inflammatory factors, which promoted the phosphorylation and nuclear transfer of NF-ĸB and may bind with NF-ĸB-p65 in vivo and in vitro. Our results suggested that IKZF3 may provide a new target in improve neurological recovery and reducing neuroinflammation after cerebral I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changchang Meng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shiyu Chen
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Qi He
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Junyi Tan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jingxian Wu
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Ho M, Xiao A, Yi D, Zanwar S, Bianchi G. Treating Multiple Myeloma in the Context of the Bone Marrow Microenvironment. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:8975-9005. [PMID: 36421358 PMCID: PMC9689284 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29110705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment landscape of multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved considerably with the FDA-approval of at least 15 drugs over the past two decades. Together with the use of autologous stem cell transplantation, these novel therapies have resulted in significant survival benefit for patients with MM. In particular, our improved understanding of the BM and immune microenvironment has led to the development of highly effective immunotherapies that have demonstrated unprecedented response rates even in the multiple refractory disease setting. However, MM remains challenging to treat especially in a high-risk setting. A key mediator of therapeutic resistance in MM is the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment; a deeper understanding is necessary to facilitate the development of therapies that target MM in the context of the BM milieu to elicit deeper and more durable responses with the ultimate goal of long-term control or a cure of MM. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the role the BM microenvironment plays in MM pathogenesis, with a focus on its immunosuppressive nature. We also review FDA-approved immunotherapies currently in clinical use and highlight promising immunotherapeutic approaches on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Ho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Alexander Xiao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Dongni Yi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Saurabh Zanwar
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Giada Bianchi
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02120, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-525-4953
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Minnie SA, Waltner OG, Ensbey KS, Nemychenkov NS, Schmidt CR, Bhise SS, Legg SRW, Campoy G, Samson LD, Kuns RD, Zhou T, Huck JD, Vuckovic S, Zamora D, Yeh A, Spencer A, Koyama M, Markey KA, Lane SW, Boeckh M, Ring AM, Furlan SN, Hill GR. Depletion of exhausted alloreactive T cells enables targeting of stem-like memory T cells to generate tumor-specific immunity. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabo3420. [PMID: 36240285 PMCID: PMC10184646 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abo3420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Some hematological malignancies such as multiple myeloma are inherently resistant to immune-mediated antitumor responses, the cause of which remains unknown. Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (alloBMT) is the only curative immunotherapy for hematological malignancies due to profound graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effects, but relapse remains the major cause of death. We developed murine models of alloBMT where the hematological malignancy is either sensitive [acute myeloid leukemia (AML)] or resistant (myeloma) to GVT effects. We found that CD8+ T cell exhaustion in bone marrow was primarily alloantigen-driven, with expression of inhibitory ligands present on myeloma but not AML. Because of this tumor-independent exhaustion signature, immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) in myeloma exacerbated graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) without promoting GVT effects. Administration of post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PT-Cy) depleted donor T cells with an exhausted phenotype and spared T cells displaying a stem-like memory phenotype with chromatin accessibility present in cytokine signaling genes, including the interleukin-18 (IL-18) receptor. Whereas ICI with anti-PD-1 or anti-TIM-3 remained ineffective after PT-Cy, administration of a decoy-resistant IL-18 (DR-18) strongly enhanced GVT effects in both myeloma and leukemia models, without exacerbation of GVHD. We thus defined mechanisms of resistance to T cell-mediated antitumor effects after alloBMT and described an immunotherapy approach targeting stem-like memory T cells to enhance antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone A. Minnie
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Olivia G. Waltner
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Kathleen S. Ensbey
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Nicole S. Nemychenkov
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Christine R. Schmidt
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Shruti S. Bhise
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Samuel RW. Legg
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Gabriela Campoy
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Luke D. Samson
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Rachel D. Kuns
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute; Brisbane, QLD, 4006, AUSTRALIA
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT, 06519, UNITED STATES
| | - John D. Huck
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT, 06519, UNITED STATES
| | - Slavica Vuckovic
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute; Brisbane, QLD, 4006, AUSTRALIA
| | - Danniel Zamora
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Albert Yeh
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Andrew Spencer
- Australian Center for Blood Diseases, Monash University/The Alfred Hospital; Melbourne, VIC, 3004, AUSTRALIA
- Malignant Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, The Alfred Hospital; Melbourne, VIC, 3004, AUSTRALIA
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Monash University; Melbourne, VIC, 3800, AUSTRALIA
| | - Motoko Koyama
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Kate A. Markey
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Steven W. Lane
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute; Brisbane, QLD, 4006, AUSTRALIA
| | - Michael Boeckh
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
| | - Aaron M. Ring
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT, 06519, UNITED STATES
| | - Scott N. Furlan
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington; WA, 98105, UNITED STATES
| | - Geoffrey R. Hill
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington; Seattle, WA, 98109, UNITED STATES
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Tang TF, Chan YT, Cheong HC, Cheok YY, Anuar NA, Looi CY, Gan GG, Wong WF. Regulatory network of BLIMP1, IRF4, and XBP1 triad in plasmacytic differentiation and multiple myeloma pathogenesis. Cell Immunol 2022; 380:104594. [PMID: 36081178 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Antibody secreting plasma cell plays an indispensable role in humoral immunity. As activated B cell undergoes germinal center reaction and develops into plasma cell, it gradually loses B cell characteristics and embraces functional changes associated with immunoglobulins production. Differentiation of B cell into plasma cell involves drastic changes in cell structure, granularity, metabolism, gene expression and epigenetic regulation that couple with the mounting capacity for synthesis of a large quantity of antigen-specific antibodies. The interplay between three hallmark transcriptional regulators IRF4, BLIMP1, and XBP1, is critical for supporting the cellular reprograming activities during B to plasma cell transition. IRF4 promotes plasma cell generation by directing immunoglobulin class switching, proliferation and survival; BLIMP1 serves as a transcriptional repressor that extinguishes B cell features; whereas XBP1 controls unfolded protein response that relieves endoplasmic reticulum stress and permits antibody release during terminal differentiation. Intriguingly, high expression of IRF4, BLIMP1, and XBP1 molecules have been reported in myeloma cells derived from multiple myeloma patients, which negatively impact treatment outcome, prognosis, and relapse frequency. Despite the introduction of immunomodulatory drugs in recent years, multiple myeloma is still an incurable disease with poor survival rate. An in-depth review of IRF4, BLIMP1, and XBP1 triad molecules in plasma cell generation and multiple myeloma tumorigenesis may provide clues to the possibility of targeting these molecules in disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Fang Tang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Teng Chan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Heng Choon Cheong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yi Ying Cheok
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Adila Anuar
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Bioscience, Taylor's University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Gin Gin Gan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Harnessing natural killer cells for cancer immunotherapy: dispatching the first responders. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:559-577. [PMID: 35314852 PMCID: PMC10019065 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00413-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have crucial roles in the innate immunosurveillance of cancer and viral infections. They are 'first responders' that can spontaneously recognize abnormal cells in the body, rapidly eliminate them through focused cytotoxicity mechanisms and potently produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that recruit and activate other immune cells to initiate an adaptive response. From the initial discovery of the diverse cell surface receptors on NK cells to the characterization of regulatory events that control their function, our understanding of the basic biology of NK cells has improved dramatically in the past three decades. This advanced knowledge has revealed increased mechanistic complexity, which has opened the doors to the development of a plethora of exciting new therapeutics that can effectively manipulate and target NK cell functional responses, particularly in cancer patients. Here, we summarize the basic mechanisms that regulate NK cell biology, review a wide variety of drugs, cytokines and antibodies currently being developed and used to stimulate NK cell responses, and outline evolving NK cell adoptive transfer approaches to treat cancer.
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Kosta A, Mekhloufi A, Lucantonio L, Zingoni A, Soriani A, Cippitelli M, Gismondi A, Fazio F, Petrucci MT, Santoni A, Stabile H, Fionda C. GAS6/TAM signaling pathway controls MICA expression in multiple myeloma cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:942640. [PMID: 35967396 PMCID: PMC9368199 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.942640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NKG2D ligands play a relevant role in Natural Killer (NK) cell -mediated immune surveillance of multiple myeloma (MM). Different levels of regulation control the expression of these molecules at cell surface. A number of oncogenic proteins and miRNAs act as negative regulators of NKG2D ligand transcription and translation, but the molecular mechanisms sustaining their basal expression in MM cells remain poorly understood. Here, we evaluated the role of the growth arrest specific 6 (GAS6)/TAM signaling pathway in the regulation of NKG2D ligand expression and MM recognition by NK cells. Our data showed that GAS6 as well as MERTK and AXL depletion in MM cells results in MICA downregulation and inhibition of NKG2D-mediated NK cell degranulation. Noteworthy, GAS6 derived from bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) also increases MICA expression at both protein and mRNA level in human MM cell lines and in primary malignant plasma cells. NF-kB activation is required for these regulatory mechanisms since deletion of a site responsive for this transcription factor compromises the induction of mica promoter by BMSCs. Accordingly, knockdown of GAS6 reduces the capability of BMSCs to activate NF-kB pathway as well as to enhance MICA expression in MM cells. Taken together, these results shed light on molecular mechanism underlying NKG2D ligand regulation and identify GAS6 protein as a novel autocrine and paracrine regulator of basal expression of MICA in human MM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kosta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Abdelilah Mekhloufi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Lorenzo Lucantonio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Gismondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fazio
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine and Precision, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Petrucci
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine and Precision, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Helena Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cinzia Fionda, ; Helena Stabile,
| | - Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cinzia Fionda, ; Helena Stabile,
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11
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Boyd-Gibbins N, Karagiannis P, Hwang DW, Kim SI. iPSCs in NK Cell Manufacturing and NKEV Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:890894. [PMID: 35874677 PMCID: PMC9305199 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.890894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapies for cancer can complement existing T cell therapies while benefiting from advancements already made in the immunotherapy field. For NK cell manufacturing, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer advantages including eliminating donor variation and providing an ideal platform for genome engineering. At the same time, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have become a major research interest, and purified NK cell extracellular vesicles (NKEVs) have been shown to reproduce the key functions of their parent NK cells. NKEVs have the potential to be developed into a standalone therapeutic with reduced complexity and immunogenicity compared to cell therapies. This review explores the role iPSC technology can play in both NK cell manufacturing and NKEV development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Karagiannis
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Do Won Hwang
- Research and Development Center, THERABEST Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
| | - Shin-Il Kim
- THERABEST Japan, Inc., Kobe, Japan
- Research and Development Center, THERABEST Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Shin-Il Kim,
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12
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Iraqi M, Edri A, Greenshpan Y, Goldstein O, Ofir N, Bolel P, Abu Ahmad M, Zektser M, Campbell KS, Rouvio O, Gazit R, Porgador A. Blocking the PCNA/NKp44 Checkpoint to Stimulate NK Cell Responses to Multiple Myeloma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4717. [PMID: 35563109 PMCID: PMC9105815 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a devastating malignancy that evades immune destruction using multiple mechanisms. The NKp44 receptor interacts with PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) and may inhibit NK cells' functions. Here we studied in vitro the expression and function of PCNA on MM cells. First, we show that PCNA is present on the cell membrane of five out of six MM cell lines, using novel anti-PCNA mAb developed to recognize membrane-associated PCNA. Next, we stained primary bone marrow (BM) mononuclear cells from MM patients and showed significant staining of membrane-associated PCNA in the fraction of CD38+CD138+ BM cells that contain the MM cells. Importantly, blocking of the membrane PCNA on MM cells enhanced the activity of NK cells, including IFN-γ-secretion and degranulation. Our results highlight the possible blocking of the NKp44-PCNA immune checkpoint by the mAb 14-25-9 antibody to enhance NK cell responses against MM, providing a novel treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Iraqi
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Avishay Edri
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Yariv Greenshpan
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Oron Goldstein
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Noa Ofir
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Priyanka Bolel
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Muhammad Abu Ahmad
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Miri Zektser
- Internal Medicine A and Multiple Myeloma Clinic, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8489501, Israel; (M.Z.); (O.R.)
| | - Kerry S. Campbell
- Blood Cell Development and Host Defense Program, Research Institute at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA;
| | - Ory Rouvio
- Internal Medicine A and Multiple Myeloma Clinic, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8489501, Israel; (M.Z.); (O.R.)
| | - Roi Gazit
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Angel Porgador
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
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13
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Clara JA, Childs RW. Harnessing natural killer cells for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Semin Oncol 2022; 49:69-85. [DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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14
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Vulpis E, Loconte L, Peri A, Molfetta R, Caracciolo G, Masuelli L, Tomaipitinca L, Peruzzi G, Petillo S, Petrucci MT, Fazio F, Simonelli L, Fionda C, Soriani A, Cerboni C, Cippitelli M, Paolini R, Bernardini G, Palmieri G, Santoni A, Zingoni A. Impact on NK cell functions of acute versus chronic exposure to extracellular vesicle-associated MICA: Dual role in cancer immunosurveillance. J Extracell Vesicles 2022; 11:e12176. [PMID: 34973063 PMCID: PMC8720178 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate cytotoxic lymphocytes that play a key role in cancer immunosurveillance thanks to their ability to recognize and kill cancer cells. NKG2D is an activating receptor that binds to MIC and ULBP molecules typically induced on damaged, transformed or infected cells. The release of NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) in the extracellular milieu through protease-mediated cleavage or by extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion allows cancer cells to evade NKG2D-mediated immunosurveillance. In this work, we investigated the immunomodulatory properties of the NKG2D ligand MICA*008 associated to distinct populations of EVs (i.e., small extracellular vesicles [sEVs] and medium size extracellular vesicles [mEVs]). By using as model a human MICA*008-transfected multiple myeloma (MM) cell line, we found that this ligand is present on both vesicle populations. Interestingly, our findings reveal that NKG2D is specifically involved in the uptake of vesicles expressing its cognate ligand. We provide evidence that MICA*008-expressing sEVs and mEVs are able on one hand to activate NK cells but, following prolonged stimulation induce a sustained NKG2D downmodulation leading to impaired NKG2D-mediated functions. Moreover, our findings show that MICA*008 can be transferred by vesicles to NK cells causing fratricide. Focusing on MM as a clinically and biologically relevant model of tumour-NK cell interactions, we found enrichment of EVs expressing MICA in the bone marrow of a cohort of patients. All together our results suggest that the accumulation of NKG2D ligands associated to vesicles in the tumour microenvironment could favour the suppression of NK cell activity either by NKG2D down-modulation or by fratricide of NK cell dressed with EV-derived NKG2D ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Vulpis
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Luisa Loconte
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Agnese Peri
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Rosa Molfetta
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- Department of Molecular MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Luana Tomaipitinca
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano & Neuro ScienceIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaRomeItaly
| | - Sara Petillo
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Maria Teresa Petrucci
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and HematologySapienza University of RomeItaly
| | - Francesca Fazio
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and HematologySapienza University of RomeItaly
| | - Lucilla Simonelli
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Cinzia Fionda
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Cristina Cerboni
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Rossella Paolini
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Giovanni Bernardini
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | - Angela Santoni
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
- Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.‐Istituto Neurologico MediterraneoPozzilliItaly
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineSapienza’ University of RomeRomeItaly
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15
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Xia R, Cheng Y, Han X, Wei Y, Wei X. Ikaros Proteins in Tumor: Current Perspectives and New Developments. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:788440. [PMID: 34950704 PMCID: PMC8689071 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.788440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ikaros is a zinc finger transcription factor (TF) of the Krüppel family member, which significantly regulates normal lymphopoiesis and tumorigenesis. Ikaros can directly initiate or suppress tumor suppressors or oncogenes, consequently regulating the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Over recent decades, a series of studies have been devoted to exploring and clarifying the relationship between Ikaros and associated tumors. Therapeutic strategies targeting Ikaros have shown promising therapeutic effects in both pre-clinical and clinical trials. Nevertheless, the increasingly prominent problem of drug resistance targeted to Ikaros and its analog is gradually appearing in our field of vision. This article reviews the role of Ikaros in tumorigenesis, the mechanism of drug resistance, the progress of targeting Ikaros in both pre-clinical and clinical trials, and the potential use of associated therapy in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolan Xia
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuejiao Han
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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16
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Domingo S, Solé C, Moliné T, Ferrer B, Cortés-Hernández J. Thalidomide Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Cutaneous Lupus by Inhibiting the IRF4/NF-ҡB and AMPK1/mTOR Pathways. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121857. [PMID: 34944673 PMCID: PMC8698478 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalidomide is effective in patients with refractory cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). However, the mechanism of action is not completely understood, and its use is limited by its potential, severe side-effects. Immune cell subset analysis in thalidomide’s CLE responder patients showed a reduction of circulating and tissue cytotoxic T-cells with an increase of iNKT cells and a shift towards a Th2 response. We conducted an RNA-sequencing study using CLE skin biopsies performing a Therapeutic Performance Mapping System (TMPS) analysis in order to generate a predictive model of its mechanism of action and to identify new potential therapeutic targets. Integrating RNA-seq data, public databases, and literature, TMPS analysis generated mathematical models which predicted that thalidomide acts via two CRBN-CRL4A- (CRL4CRBN) dependent pathways: IRF4/NF-ҡB and AMPK1/mTOR. Skin biopsies showed a significant reduction of IRF4 and mTOR in post-treatment samples by immunofluorescence. In vitro experiments confirmed the effect of thalidomide downregulating IRF4 in PBMCs and mTOR in keratinocytes, which converged in an NF-ҡB reduction that led to a resolution of the inflammatory lesion. These results emphasize the anti-inflammatory role of thalidomide in CLE treatment, providing novel molecular targets for the development of new therapies that could avoid thalidomide’s side effects while maintaining its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Domingo
- Lupus Unit, Rheumatology Departament, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (S.D.); (J.C.-H.)
| | - Cristina Solé
- Lupus Unit, Rheumatology Departament, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (S.D.); (J.C.-H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-489-4045
| | - Teresa Moliné
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (T.M.); (B.F.)
| | - Berta Ferrer
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (T.M.); (B.F.)
| | - Josefina Cortés-Hernández
- Lupus Unit, Rheumatology Departament, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (S.D.); (J.C.-H.)
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17
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PLZF and its fusion proteins are pomalidomide-dependent CRBN neosubstrates. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1277. [PMID: 34764413 PMCID: PMC8586336 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02801-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pomalidomide and lenalidomide are immunomodulatory agents that were derived from thalidomide. Cereblon (CRBN) is a common direct target of thalidomide and related compounds and works as a Cullin Ring 4 E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL4) with DDB1, CUL4, and ROC1. The substrate specificity of CRL4CRBN is modulated by thalidomide-related compounds. While lenalidomide is approved for the treatment of several diseases including multiple myeloma, 5q- syndrome, mantle cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma, pomalidomide is approved only for the treatment of lenalidomide-resistant multiple myeloma. Here we show that PLZF/ZBTB16 and its fusion proteins are pomalidomide-dependent neosubstrates of CRL4CRBN. PLZF joins to RARα or potentially other partner genes, and the translocation causes leukemias, such as acute promyelocytic leukemia and T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We demonstrate that pomalidomide treatment induces PLZF-RARα degradation, resulting in antiproliferation of leukemic cells expressing PLZF-RARα. This study highlights a potential therapeutic role of pomalidomide as a degrader of leukemogenic fusion proteins.
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18
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Immunomodulatory effect of NEDD8-activating enzyme inhibition in Multiple Myeloma: upregulation of NKG2D ligands and sensitization to Natural Killer cell recognition. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:836. [PMID: 34482362 PMCID: PMC8418610 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04104-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic malignancy of terminally differentiated plasma cells (PCs), where immune interactions play a key role in the control of cancer cell growth and survival. In particular, MM is characterized by a highly immunosuppressive bone marrow microenvironment where the anticancer/cytotoxic activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells is impaired. This study is focused on understanding whether modulation of neddylation can regulate NK cell-activating ligands expression and sensitize MM to NK cell killing. Neddylation is a post-translational modification that adds a ubiquitin-like protein, NEDD8, to selected substrate proteins, affecting their stability, conformation, subcellular localization, and function. We found that pharmacologic inhibition of neddylation using a small-molecule inhibitor, MLN4924/Pevonedistat, increases the expression of the NK cell-activating receptor NKG2D ligands MICA and MICB on the plasma membrane of different MM cell lines and patient-derived PCs, leading to enhanced NK cell degranulation. Mechanistically, MICA expression is upregulated at mRNA level, and this is the result of an increased promoter activity after the inhibition of IRF4 and IKZF3, two transcriptional repressors of this gene. Differently, MLN4924/Pevonedistat induced accumulation of MICB on the plasma membrane with no change of its mRNA levels, indicating a post-translational regulatory mechanism. Moreover, inhibition of neddylation can cooperate with immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) in upregulating MICA surface levels in MM cells due to increased expression of CRBN, the cellular target of these drugs. In summary, MLN4924/Pevonedistat sensitizes MM to NK cell recognition, adding novel information on the anticancer activity of neddylation inhibition.
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19
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Moon J, Oh YM, Ha SJ. Perspectives on immune checkpoint ligands: expression, regulation, and clinical implications. BMB Rep 2021. [PMID: 34078531 PMCID: PMC8411045 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2021.54.8.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment, immune checkpoint ligands (ICLs) must be expressed in order to trigger the inhibitory signal via immune checkpoint receptors (ICRs). Although ICL expression frequently occurs in a manner intrinsic to tumor cells, extrinsic factors derived from the tumor microenvironment can fine-tune ICL expression by tumor cells or prompt non-tumor cells, including immune cells. Considering the extensive interaction between T cells and other immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, ICL expression on immune cells can be as significant as that of ICLs on tumor cells in promoting anti-tumor immune responses. Here, we introduce various regulators known to induce or suppress ICL expression in either tumor cells or immune cells, and concise mechanisms relevant to their induction. Finally, we focus on the clinical significance of understanding the mechanisms of ICLs for an optimized immunotherapy for individual cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 (BK21) FOUR Program, Yonsei Education & Research Center for Biosystems, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Yoo Min Oh
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 (BK21) FOUR Program, Yonsei Education & Research Center for Biosystems, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Sang-Jun Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science & Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 (BK21) FOUR Program, Yonsei Education & Research Center for Biosystems, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
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miR-22 Modulates Lenalidomide Activity by Counteracting MYC Addiction in Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174365. [PMID: 34503175 PMCID: PMC8431372 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary MYC-driven deregulation of microRNAs represents a critical event in human malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM). Although the introduction of new therapeutic strategies has prolonged survival of patients, MM remains an incurable disease, often due to the onset of drug resistance. MYC hyperactivation is involved in the development of resistance to immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs), but the mechanism is still unclear. Here, we report that MYC represses the transcription of tumor suppressor miR-22 in MM, and that low miR-22 expression is associated with IMiD resistance in MM patients. By in silico and in vitro analysis, we show that miR-22 mimics affect MYC signaling, leading to MM cell death in MYC proficient cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate here that lenalidomide treatment enhances miR-22 activity by reducing the MYC inhibitory effect, and that the combination of lenalidomide with miR-22 mimics restores drug sensitivity, leading to synergistic anti-MM activity. Abstract Background: MYC is a master regulator of multiple myeloma (MM) by orchestrating several pro-tumoral pathways, including reprograming of the miRNA transcriptome. MYC is also involved in the acquirement of resistance to anti-MM drugs, including immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs). Methods: In silico analysis was performed on MM proprietary and on public MMRF-CoMMpass datasets. Western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments were performed to validate miR-22 repression induced by MYC. Cell viability and apoptosis assays were used to evaluate lenalidomide sensitization after miR-22 overexpression. Results: We found an inverse correlation between MYC and miR-22 expression, which is associated with poor outcome in IMiD-treated MM patients. Mechanistically, we showed that MYC represses transcription of miR-22, which, in turn, targets MYC, thus establishing a feed-forward loop. Interestingly, we found that IMiD lenalidomide increases miR-22 expression by reducing MYC repression and, most importantly, that the combination of lenalidomide with miR-22 mimics results in a synergistic direct and NK-mediated cytotoxic activity. Conclusions: Taken together, our findings indicate that: (1) low miR-22 expression could represent a potential predictive biomarker of poor lenalidomide response in MM patients; and (2) miR-22 reduces MYC oncogenic activity, thus triggering a novel synthetic lethality loop, which sensitizes MM cells to lenalidomide.
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Fionda C, Stabile H, Molfetta R, Kosta A, Peruzzi G, Ruggeri S, Zingoni A, Capuano C, Soriani A, Paolini R, Gismondi A, Cippitelli M, Santoni A. Cereblon regulates NK cell cytotoxicity and migration via Rac1 activation. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2607-2617. [PMID: 34392531 PMCID: PMC9291148 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149269] [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: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton is critical for cytotoxic and immunoregulatory functions as well as migration of natural killer (NK) cells. However, dynamic reorganization of actin is a complex process, which remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role of the protein Cereblon (CRBN), an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex co‐receptor and the primary target of the immunomodulatory drugs, in NK cells. We observed that CRBN partially colocalizes with F‐actin in chemokine‐treated NK cells and is recruited to the immunological synapse, thus suggesting a role for this protein in cytoskeleton reorganization. Accordingly, silencing of CRBN in NK cells results in a reduced cytotoxicity that correlates with a defect in conjugate and lytic synapse formation. Moreover, CRBN depletion significantly impairs the ability of NK cells to migrate and reduces the enhancing effect of lenalidomide on NK cell migration. Finally, we provided evidence that CRBN is required for activation of the small GTPase Rac1, a critical mediator of cytoskeleton dynamics. Indeed, in CRBN‐depleted NK cells, chemokine‐mediated or target cell–mediated Rac1 activation is significantly reduced. Altogether our data identify a critical role for CRBN in regulating NK cell functions and suggest that this protein may mediate the stimulatory effect of lenalidomide on NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Helena Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Molfetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Kosta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Ruggeri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Capuano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Gismondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.,RCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, IS, Italy
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22
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Unleashing the power of NK cells in anticancer immunotherapy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:337-349. [PMID: 34374809 PMCID: PMC8843917 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02120-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to their physiological role in removing damaged cells, natural killer (NK) cells represent ideal candidates for cellular immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Thereby, the cytotoxicity of NK cells is regulated by signals on both, the NK cells as well as the targeted tumor cells, and the interplay and balance of these signals determine the killing capacity of NK cells. One promising avenue in cancer treatment is therefore the combination of NK cell therapy with agents that either help to increase the killing capacity of NK cells or sensitize tumor cells to an NK cell-mediated attack. In this mini-review, we present different strategies that can be explored to unleash the potential of NK cell immunotherapy. In particular, we summarize how modulation of apoptosis signaling within tumor cells can be exploited to sensitize tumor cells to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
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23
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Hirano M, Imai Y, Kaito Y, Murayama T, Sato K, Ishida T, Yamamoto J, Ito T, Futami M, Ri M, Yasui H, Denda T, Tanaka Y, Ota Y, Nojima M, Kamikubo Y, Gotoh N, Iida S, Handa H, Tojo A. Small-molecule HDAC and Akt inhibitors suppress tumor growth and enhance immunotherapy in multiple myeloma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:110. [PMID: 33757580 PMCID: PMC7989023 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01909-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable disease. The acquisition of resistance to drugs, including immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), has a negative effect on its prognosis. Cereblon (CRBN) is a key mediator of the bioactivities of IMiDs such as lenalidomide. Moreover, genetic alteration of CRBN is frequently detected in IMiD-resistant patients and is considered to contribute to IMiD resistance. Thus, overcoming resistance to drugs, including IMiDs, is expected to improve clinical outcomes. Here, we examined potential mechanisms of a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and Akt inhibitor in relapsed/refractory MM patients. Methods We established lenalidomide-resistant cells by knocking down CRBN with RNAi-mediated downregulation or knocking out CRBN using CRISPR-Cas9 in MM cells. Additionally, we derived multi-drug (bortezomib, doxorubicin, or dexamethasone)-resistant cell lines and primary cells from relapsed/refractory MM patients. The effects of HDAC and Akt inhibitors on these drug-resistant MM cells were then observed with a particular focus on whether HDAC inhibitors enhance immunotherapy efficacy. We also investigated the effect of lenalidomide on CRBN-deficient cells. Results The HDAC inhibitor suppressed the growth of drug-resistant MM cell lines and enhanced the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of therapeutic antibodies by upregulating natural killer group 2D (NKG2D) ligands in MM cells. CRBN-deficient cells showed lenalidomide-induced upregulation of phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3 (p-GSK-3) and c-Myc phosphorylation. Moreover, HDAC and Akt inhibitors downregulated c-Myc by blocking GSK-3 phosphorylation. HDAC and Akt inhibitors also exhibited synergistic cytotoxic and c-Myc-suppressive effects. The dual HDAC and PI3K inhibitor, CUDC-907, exhibited cytotoxic and immunotherapy-enhancing effects in MM cells, including multi-drug-resistant lines and primary cells from lenalidomide-resistant patients. Conclusions The combination of an HDAC and an Akt inhibitor represents a promising approach for the treatment of relapsed/refractory MM. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-01909-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuhito Hirano
- Division of Molecular Therapy, Advanced Clinical Research Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoichi Imai
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yuta Kaito
- Division of Molecular Therapy, Advanced Clinical Research Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiko Murayama
- Division of Cancer Cell Biology, Cancer Research Institute of Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kota Sato
- Department of Hematology, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadao Ishida
- Department of Hematology, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junichi Yamamoto
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Chemical Biology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Ito
- Department of Chemical Biology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Muneyoshi Futami
- Division of Molecular Therapy, Advanced Clinical Research Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Hematology/Oncology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaki Ri
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yasui
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Project Division of Fundamental Study on Cutting Edge of Genome Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tamami Denda
- Department of Pathology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukihisa Tanaka
- Department of Pathology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasunori Ota
- Department of Pathology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanori Nojima
- Center for Translational Research/Division of Advanced Medicine Promotion The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Kamikubo
- Laboratory of Oncology and Strategic Innovation, Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Gotoh
- Division of Cancer Cell Biology, Cancer Research Institute of Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Iida
- Department of Hematology & Oncology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Handa
- Department of Chemical Biology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Arinobu Tojo
- Division of Molecular Therapy, Advanced Clinical Research Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Hematology/Oncology, Research Hospital, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Díaz-Tejedor A, Lorenzo-Mohamed M, Puig N, García-Sanz R, Mateos MV, Garayoa M, Paíno T. Immune System Alterations in Multiple Myeloma: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies to Reverse Immunosuppression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061353. [PMID: 33802806 PMCID: PMC8002455 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A common characteristic of multiple myeloma (MM) is the dysfunction of patients’ immune system, a condition termed immunosuppression. This state is mainly due to alterations in the number and functionality of the principal immune populations. In this setting, immunotherapy has acquired high relevance in the last years and the investigation of agents that boost the immune system represent a field of interest. In the present review, we will summarize the main cellular and molecular alterations observed in MM patients’ immune system. Furthermore, we will describe the mechanisms of action of the four immunotherapeutic drugs approved so far for the treatment of MM, which are part of the group of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Finally, the immune-stimulating effects of several therapeutic agents are described due to their potential role in reversing immunosuppression and, therefore, in favoring the efficacy of immunotherapy drugs, such as mAbs, as part of future pharmacological combinations. Abstract Immunosuppression is a common feature of multiple myeloma (MM) patients and has been associated with disease evolution from its precursor stages. MM cells promote immunosuppressive effects due to both the secretion of soluble factors, which inhibit the function of immune effector cells, and the recruitment of immunosuppressive populations. Alterations in the expression of surface molecules are also responsible for immunosuppression. In this scenario, immunotherapy, as is the case of immunotherapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), aims to boost the immune system against tumor cells. In fact, mAbs exert part of their cytotoxic effects through different cellular and soluble immune components and, therefore, patients’ immunosuppressive status could reduce their efficacy. Here, we will expose the alterations observed in symptomatic MM, as compared to its precursor stages and healthy subjects, in the main immune populations, especially the inhibition of effector cells and the activation of immunosuppressive populations. Additionally, we will revise the mechanisms responsible for all these alterations, including the interplay between MM cells and immune cells and the interactions among immune cells themselves. We will also summarize the main mechanisms of action of the four mAbs approved so far for the treatment of MM. Finally, we will discuss the potential immune-stimulating effects of non-immunotherapeutic drugs, which could enhance the efficacy of immunotherapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Díaz-Tejedor
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Mauro Lorenzo-Mohamed
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Noemí Puig
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC, CB16/12/00233), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ramón García-Sanz
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC, CB16/12/00233), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - María-Victoria Mateos
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC, CB16/12/00233), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Mercedes Garayoa
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Teresa Paíno
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-IBMCC (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca), Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Hematology, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.D.-T.); (M.L.-M.); (N.P.); (R.G.-S.); (M.-V.M.); (M.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC, CB16/12/00233), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-923-294-812; Fax: +34-923-294-743
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Role of Aiolos and Ikaros in the Antitumor and Immunomodulatory Activity of IMiDs in Multiple Myeloma: Better to Lose Than to Find Them. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031103. [PMID: 33499314 PMCID: PMC7865245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ikaros zing-finger family transcription factors (IKZF TFs) are important regulators of lymphocyte development and differentiation and are also highly expressed in B cell malignancies, including Multiple Myeloma (MM), where they are required for cancer cell growth and survival. Moreover, IKZF TFs negatively control the functional properties of many immune cells. Thus, the targeting of these proteins has relevant therapeutic implications in cancer. Indeed, accumulating evidence demonstrated that downregulation of Ikaros and Aiolos, two members of the IKZF family, in malignant plasma cells as well as in adaptative and innate lymphocytes, is key for the anti-myeloma activity of Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). This review is focused on IKZF TF-related pathways in MM. In particular, we will address how the depletion of IKZF TFs exerts cytotoxic effects on MM cells, by reducing their survival and proliferation, and concomitantly potentiates the antitumor immune response, thus contributing to therapeutic efficacy of IMiDs, a cornerstone in the treatment of this neoplasia.
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26
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Pazina T, MacFarlane AW, Bernabei L, Dulaimi E, Kotcher R, Yam C, Bezman NA, Robbins MD, Ross EA, Campbell KS, Cohen AD. Alterations of NK Cell Phenotype in the Disease Course of Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020226. [PMID: 33435153 PMCID: PMC7827733 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Multiple myeloma (MM) is a deadly cancer localized in the bone marrow, where changes can support progression and therapy resistance. This study examined the expression of numerous biological markers on natural killer (NK) cells in blood and bone marrow of patients with MM. NK cells play key roles in the innate immunosurveillance of MM, so we sought to identify biomarkers on NK cells that may be prognostic for patient outcomes and identify new therapeutic targets in these patients. Biomarker expression was compared on NK cells between MM disease stages and healthy donors, between blood and bone marrow, and associations with disease progression. The study shows that loss of certain biomarkers on NK cells may limit their anti-tumor function in MM patients, that several drug-targetable biomarkers are upregulated on NK cells, and that high expression of the biomarker, SLAMF7, may have prognostic potential to identify patients more likely to show rapid disease progression. Abstract Accumulating evidence demonstrates important roles for natural killer (NK) cells in controlling multiple myeloma (MM). A prospective flow cytometry-based analysis of NK cells in the blood and bone marrow (BM) of MM patient subgroups was performed (smoldering (SMM), newly diagnosed (ND), relapsed/refractory, (RR) and post-stem cell transplantation (pSCT)). Assessments included the biomarker expression and function of NK cells, correlations between the expression of receptors on NK cells with their ligands on myeloma cells, and comparisons between MM patient subgroups and healthy controls. The most striking differences from healthy controls were found in RR and pSCT patients, in which NK cells were less mature and expressed reduced levels of the activating receptors DNAM-1, NKG2D, and CD16. These differences were more pronounced in the BM than in blood, including upregulation of the therapeutic targets TIM3, TIGIT, ICOS, and GITR. Their expression suggests NK cells became exhausted upon chronic encounters with the tumor. A high expression of SLAMF7 on blood NK cells correlated with shorter progression-free survival. This correlation was particularly evident in ND patients, including on mature CD56dim NK cells in the BM. Thus, our NK cell analysis identified possible therapeutic targets in MM and a biomarker with prognostic potential for disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Pazina
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA; (T.P.); (A.W.M.IV)
- FSBSI “Institute of Experimental Medicine”, Department of General Pathology and Pathological Physiology, 197376 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander W. MacFarlane
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA; (T.P.); (A.W.M.IV)
| | - Luca Bernabei
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.B.); (R.K.); (C.Y.)
| | - Essel Dulaimi
- Department of Pathology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA;
| | - Rebecca Kotcher
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.B.); (R.K.); (C.Y.)
| | - Clinton Yam
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.B.); (R.K.); (C.Y.)
| | | | | | - Eric A. Ross
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA;
| | - Kerry S. Campbell
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA; (T.P.); (A.W.M.IV)
- Correspondence: (K.S.C.); (A.D.C.); Tel.: +1-215-728-7761 (K.S.C.); +1-215-615-5853 (A.D.C.)
| | - Adam D. Cohen
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.B.); (R.K.); (C.Y.)
- Correspondence: (K.S.C.); (A.D.C.); Tel.: +1-215-728-7761 (K.S.C.); +1-215-615-5853 (A.D.C.)
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Shrestha P, Davis DA, Jaeger HK, Stream A, Aisabor AI, Yarchoan R. Pomalidomide restores immune recognition of primary effusion lymphoma through upregulation of ICAM-1 and B7-2. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009091. [PMID: 33411730 PMCID: PMC7817053 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pomalidomide (Pom) is an immunomodulatory drug that has efficacy against Kaposi’s sarcoma, a tumor caused by Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Pom also induces direct cytotoxicity in primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), a B-cell malignancy caused by KSHV, in part through downregulation of IRF4, cMyc, and CK1α as a result of its interaction with cereblon, a cellular E3 ubiquitin ligase. Additionally, Pom can reverse KSHV-induced downregulation of MHCI and co-stimulatory immune surface molecules ICAM-1 and B7-2 on PELs. Here, we show for the first time that Pom-induced increases in ICAM-1 and B7-2 on PEL cells lead to an increase in both T-cell activation and NK-mediated cytotoxicity against PEL. The increase in T-cell activation can be prevented by blocking ICAM-1 and/or B7-2 on the PEL cell surface, suggesting that both ICAM-1 and B7-2 are important for T-cell co-stimulation by PELs. To gain mechanistic insights into Pom’s effects on surface markers, we generated Pom-resistant (PomR) PEL cells, which showed about 90% reduction in cereblon protein level and only minimal changes in IRF4 and cMyc upon Pom treatment. Pom no longer upregulated ICAM-1 and B7-2 on the surface of PomR cells, nor did it increase T-cell and NK-cell activation. Cereblon-knockout cells behaved similarly to the pomR cells upon Pom-treatment, suggesting that Pom’s interaction with cereblon is necessary for these effects. Further mechanistic studies revealed PI3K signaling pathway as being important for Pom-induced increases in these molecules. These observations provide a rationale for the study of Pom as therapy in treating PEL and other KSHV-associated tumors. Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma caused by Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). KSHV encodes various genes that enable infected cells to evade recognition and elimination by the immune system. PEL cells are poorly recognized by T-cells and NK cells, partly due to KSHV-induced downregulation of immune stimulatory surface molecules ICAM-1 and B7-2. We previously found that a cereblon-binding immunomodulatory drug pomalidomide (Pom) can restore the levels of these markers on PELs. Here, we show that the increases in ICAM-1 and B7-2 induced by Pom leads to a functional increase in the recognition and killing of PELs by both T-cells and NK cells. Further, exposure of both the PEL cells and T-cells to Pom lead to an even higher T-cell stimulation providing strong evidence that Pom could help PEL patients by providing specific immune-stimulatory effect. We further perform mechanistic studies and show that Pom’s cellular binding partner cereblon as well as the PI3K pathway are important for Pom-mediated increases in these surface markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabha Shrestha
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David A. Davis
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Hannah K. Jaeger
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Alexandra Stream
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ashley I. Aisabor
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Robert Yarchoan
- HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Misiewicz-Krzeminska I, de Ramón C, Corchete LA, Krzeminski P, Rojas EA, Isidro I, García-Sanz R, Martínez-López J, Oriol A, Bladé J, Lahuerta JJ, San Miguel J, Rosiñol L, Mateos MV, Gutiérrez NC. Quantitative expression of Ikaros, IRF4, and PSMD10 proteins predicts survival in VRD-treated patients with multiple myeloma. Blood Adv 2020; 4:6023-6033. [PMID: 33284947 PMCID: PMC7724915 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The search for biomarkers based on the mechanism of drug action has not been thoroughly addressed in the therapeutic approaches to multiple myeloma (MM), mainly because of the difficulty in analyzing proteins obtained from purified plasma cells. Here, we investigated the prognostic impact of the expression of 12 proteins involved in the mechanism of action of bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (VRD), quantified by capillary nanoimmunoassay, in CD138-purified samples from 174 patients with newly diagnosed MM treated according to the PETHEMA/GEM2012 study. A high level of expression of 3 out of 5 proteasome components tested (PSMD1, PSMD4, and PSMD10) negatively influenced survival. The 5 analyzed proteins involved in lenalidomide's mode of action were associated with time to progression (TTP); low levels of cereblon and IRF4 protein and high levels of Ikaros, AGO2, and Aiolos were significantly associated with shorter TTP. Although the glucocorticoid receptor (GCR) level by itself had no significant impact on MM prognosis, a high XPO1 (exportin 1)/GCR ratio was associated with shorter TTP and progression-free survival (PFS). The multivariate Cox model identified high levels of PSMD10 (hazard ratio [HR] TTP, 3.49; P = .036; HR PFS, 5.33; P = .004) and Ikaros (HR TTP, 3.01, P = .014; HR PFS, 2.57; P = .028), and low levels of IRF4 protein expression (HR TTP, 0.33; P = .004; HR PFS, 0.35; P = .004) along with high-risk cytogenetics (HR TTP, 3.13; P < .001; HR PFS, 2.69; P = .002), as independently associated with shorter TTP and PFS. These results highlight the value of assessing proteins related to the mechanism of action of drugs used in MM for predicting treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Misiewicz-Krzeminska
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Cristina de Ramón
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Luis A Corchete
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patryk Krzeminski
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Nanobiotechnology and Experimental Ecology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elizabeta A Rojas
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Isabel Isidro
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ramón García-Sanz
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Martínez-López
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
- Medicine Department, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
- Hematology Department, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Albert Oriol
- Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Jesús San Miguel
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
- Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Centro de Investigaciones Médicas Aplicadas, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - María-Victoria Mateos
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Norma C Gutiérrez
- Hematology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Cancer Research Center, Institute of Cancer Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Salamanca-National Research Council (USAL-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
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Novel Approaches to Improve Myeloma Cell Killing by Monoclonal Antibodies. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9092864. [PMID: 32899714 PMCID: PMC7564331 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have significantly changed the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. However, despite their introduction, MM remains an incurable disease. The mAbs currently used for MM treatment were developed with different mechanisms of action able to target antigens, such as cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) and SLAM family member 7 (SLAMF7) expressed by both, MM cells and the immune microenvironment cells. In this review, we focused on the mechanisms of action of the main mAbs approved for the therapy of MM, and on the possible novel approaches to improve MM cell killing by mAbs. Actually, the combination of anti-CD38 or anti-SLAMF7 mAbs with the immunomodulatory drugs significantly improved the clinical effect in MM patients. On the other hand, pre-clinical evidence indicates that different approaches may increase the efficacy of mAbs. The use of trans-retinoic acid, the cyclophosphamide or the combination of anti-CD47 and anti-CD137 mAbs have given the rationale to design these types of combinations therapies in MM patients in the future. In conclusion, a better understanding of the mechanism of action of the mAbs will allow us to develop novel therapeutic approaches to improve their response rate and to overcome their resistance in MM patients.
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Dinić J, Efferth T, García-Sosa AT, Grahovac J, Padrón JM, Pajeva I, Rizzolio F, Saponara S, Spengler G, Tsakovska I. Repurposing old drugs to fight multidrug resistant cancers. Drug Resist Updat 2020; 52:100713. [PMID: 32615525 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2020.100713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Overcoming multidrug resistance represents a major challenge for cancer treatment. In the search for new chemotherapeutics to treat malignant diseases, drug repurposing gained a tremendous interest during the past years. Repositioning candidates have often emerged through several stages of clinical drug development, and may even be marketed, thus attracting the attention and interest of pharmaceutical companies as well as regulatory agencies. Typically, drug repositioning has been serendipitous, using undesired side effects of small molecule drugs to exploit new disease indications. As bioinformatics gain increasing popularity as an integral component of drug discovery, more rational approaches are needed. Herein, we show some practical examples of in silico approaches such as pharmacophore modelling, as well as pharmacophore- and docking-based virtual screening for a fast and cost-effective repurposing of small molecule drugs against multidrug resistant cancers. We provide a timely and comprehensive overview of compounds with considerable potential to be repositioned for cancer therapeutics. These drugs are from diverse chemotherapeutic classes. We emphasize the scope and limitations of anthelmintics, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials, antihypertensives, psychopharmaceuticals and antidiabetics that have shown extensive immunomodulatory, antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, and antimetastatic potential. These drugs, either used alone or in combination with existing anticancer chemotherapeutics, represent strong candidates to prevent or overcome drug resistance. We particularly focus on outcomes and future perspectives of drug repositioning for the treatment of multidrug resistant tumors and discuss current possibilities and limitations of preclinical and clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Dinić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Jelena Grahovac
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - José M Padrón
- BioLab, Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica Antonio González (IUBO AG), Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez 2, E-38071 La Laguna, Spain.
| | - Ilza Pajeva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 105, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, 301724 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Simona Saponara
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gabriella Spengler
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Dóm tér 10, Hungary
| | - Ivanka Tsakovska
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 105, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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31
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Miyazato K, Tahara H, Hayakawa Y. Antimetastatic effects of thalidomide by inducing the functional maturation of peripheral natural killer cells. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:2770-2778. [PMID: 32573072 PMCID: PMC7419051 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalidomide and its analogues are known as immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) that possess direct antimyeloma effects, in addition to other secondary effects, including antiangiogenic, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Although the involvement of natural killer (NK) cells in the antitumor effects of IMiDs has been reported, it is unclear whether IMiDs inhibit cancer cell metastasis by regulating the antitumor function of NK cells. In this study, we examined the protective effects of thalidomide against cancer metastasis by focusing on its immunomodulatory effects through NK cells. Using experimental lung metastasis models, we found that pharmacological effects of thalidomide on host cells, but not its direct anticancer tumor effects, are responsible for the inhibition of lung metastases. To exert the antimetastatic effects of thalidomide, both γ‐interferon (IFN‐γ) production and direct cytotoxicity of NK cells were essential, without notable contribution from T cells. In thalidomide‐treated mice, there was a significant increase in the terminally differentiated mature CD27lo NK cells in the peripheral tissues and NK cells in thalidomide‐treated mice showed significantly higher cytotoxicity and IFN‐γ production. The NK cell expression of T‐bet was upregulated by thalidomide treatment and the downregulation of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β expression was observed in thalidomide‐treated NK cells. Collectively, our study suggests that thalidomide induces the functional maturation of peripheral NK cells through alteration of T‐bet expression to inhibit lung metastasis of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiho Miyazato
- Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hideaki Tahara
- Project Division of Cancer Biomolecular Therapy, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Cancer Drug Discovery and Development, Osaka International Cancer Center, Osaka, Japan
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32
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Role of the Bone Marrow Milieu in Multiple Myeloma Progression and Therapeutic Resistance. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2020; 20:e752-e768. [PMID: 32651110 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2020.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of the plasma cells within the bone marrow (BM). Studies have shown that the cellular and noncellular components of the BM milieu, such as cytokines and exosomes, play an integral role in MM pathogenesis and progression by mediating drug resistance and inducing MM proliferation. Moreover, the BM microenvironment of patients with MM facilitates cancer tolerance and immune evasion through the expansion of regulatory immune cells, inhibition of antitumor effector cells, and disruption of the antigen presentation machinery. These are of special relevance, especially in the current era of cancer immunotherapy. An improved understanding of the supportive role of the MM BM microenvironment will allow for the development of future therapies targeting MM in the context of the BM milieu to elicit deeper and more durable responses. In the present review, we have discussed our current understanding of the role of the BM microenvironment in MM progression and resistance to therapy and discuss novel potential approaches to alter its pro-MM function.
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33
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Mechanisms of Resistance to NK Cell Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040893. [PMID: 32272610 PMCID: PMC7226138 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has recently been a major breakthrough in cancer treatment. Natural killer (NK) cells are suitable targets for immunotherapy owing to their potent cytotoxic activity that may target cancer cells in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and antigen-unrestricted manner. Current therapies targeting NK cells include monoclonal antibodies that promote NK cell antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the adoptive transfer of NK cells, the redirection of NK cells using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK cells and the use of cytokines and immunostimulatory drugs to boost the anti-tumor activity of NK cells. Despite some encouraging clinical results, patients receiving these therapies frequently develop resistance, and a myriad of mechanisms of resistance affecting both the immune system and cancer cells have been reported. A first contributing factor that modulates the efficacy of the NK cell therapy is the genetic profile of the individual, which regulates all aspects of NK cell biology. Additionally, the resistance of cancer cells to apoptosis and the immunoediting of cancer cells, a process that decreases their immunogenicity and promotes immunosuppression, are major determinants of the resistance to NK cell therapy. Consequently, the efficacy of NK cell anti-tumor therapy is specific to each patient and disease. The elucidation of such immunosubversive mechanisms is crucial to developing new procedures and therapeutic strategies to fully harness the anti-tumor potential of NK cells.
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34
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Bone Marrow Stromal Cell-Derived IL-8 Upregulates PVR Expression on Multiple Myeloma Cells via NF-kB Transcription Factor. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020440. [PMID: 32069911 PMCID: PMC7072437 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) strongly contribute to multiple myeloma (MM) progression, promoting the survival and growth of malignant plasma cells (PCs). However, the possible impact of these cells on the immune-mediated recognition of MM cells remains largely unknown. DNAM-1 activating receptor plays a prominent role in NK cell anti-MM response engaging the ligands poliovirus receptor (PVR) and nectin-2 on malignant PCs. Here, we analysed the role of MM patient-derived BMSCs in the regulation of PVR expression. We found that BMSCs enhance PVR surface expression on MM cells and promote their NK cell-mediated recognition. PVR upregulation occurs at transcriptional level and involves NF-kB transcription factor activation by BMSC-derived soluble factors. Indeed, overexpression of a dominant-negative mutant of IKBα blocked PVR upregulation. IL-8 plays a prominent role in these mechanisms since blockade of CXCR1/2 receptors as well as depletion of the cytokine via RNA interference prevents the enhancement of PVR expression by BMSC-derived conditioned medium. Interestingly, IL-8 is associated with stromal microvesicles which are also required for PVR upregulation via CXCR1/CXCR2 signaling activation. Our findings identify BMSCs as regulators of NK cell anti-MM response and contribute to define novel molecular pathways involved in the regulation of PVR expression in cancer cells.
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35
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CD155: A Multi-Functional Molecule in Tumor Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030922. [PMID: 32019260 PMCID: PMC7037299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
CD155 is an adhesion molecule belonging to the Nectin/Nectin-like family often overexpressed on tumor cells and involved in many different processes such as cell adhesion, migration and proliferation. In contrast to these pro-tumorigenic functions, CD155 is also a ligand for the activating receptor DNAM-1 expressed on cytotoxic lymphocytes including Natural Killer (NK) cells and involved in anti-tumor immune response. However, during tumor progression inhibitory receptors for CD155 are up-regulated on the surface of effector cells, contributing to an impairment of their cytotoxic capacity. In this review we will focus on the roles of CD155 as a ligand for the activating receptor DNAM-1 regulating immune surveillance against cancer and as pro-oncogenic molecule favoring tumor proliferation, invasion and immune evasion. A deeper understanding of the multiple roles played by CD155 in cancer development contributes to improving anti-tumor strategies aimed to potentiate immune response against cancer.
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36
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Rautela J, Dagley LF, de Oliveira CC, Schuster IS, Hediyeh-Zadeh S, Delconte RB, Cursons J, Hennessy R, Hutchinson DS, Harrison C, Kita B, Vivier E, Webb AI, Degli-Esposti MA, Davis MJ, Huntington ND, Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes F. Therapeutic blockade of activin-A improves NK cell function and antitumor immunity. Sci Signal 2019; 12:12/596/eaat7527. [PMID: 31455725 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aat7527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that play a major role in immunosurveillance against tumor initiation and metastatic spread. The signals and checkpoints that regulate NK cell fitness and function in the tumor microenvironment are not well defined. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a suppressor of NK cells that inhibits interleukin-15 (IL-15)-dependent signaling events and increases the abundance of receptors that promote tissue residency. Here, we showed that NK cells express the type I activin receptor ALK4, which, upon binding to its ligand activin-A, phosphorylated SMAD2/3 to suppress IL-15-mediated NK cell metabolism. Activin-A impaired human and mouse NK cell proliferation and reduced the production of granzyme B to impair tumor killing. Similar to TGF-β, activin-A also induced SMAD2/3 phosphorylation and stimulated NK cells to increase their cell surface expression of several markers of ILC1 cells. Activin-A also induced these changes in TGF-β receptor-deficient NK cells, suggesting that activin-A and TGF-β stimulate independent pathways that drive SMAD2/3-mediated NK cell suppression. Last, inhibition of activin-A by follistatin substantially slowed orthotopic melanoma growth in mice. These data highlight the relevance of examining TGF-β-independent SMAD2/3 signaling mechanisms as a therapeutic axis to relieve NK cell suppression and promote antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Rautela
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura F Dagley
- Systems Biology and Personalized Medicine Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Carolina C de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Células Inflamatórias e Neoplásicas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, SCB, Centro Politecnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, CEP 81531-980, PR, Brazil
| | - Iona S Schuster
- Immunology and Virology Program, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Soroor Hediyeh-Zadeh
- Bioinformatics Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology and Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Rebecca B Delconte
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Joseph Cursons
- Bioinformatics Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology and Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Robert Hennessy
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Dana S Hutchinson
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Craig Harrison
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Badia Kita
- Paranta Biosciences Limited, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Eric Vivier
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Andrew I Webb
- Systems Biology and Personalized Medicine Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Mariapia A Degli-Esposti
- Immunology and Virology Program, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melissa J Davis
- Bioinformatics Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology and Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Nicholas D Huntington
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fernando Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. .,University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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37
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The POU-Domain Transcription Factor Oct-6/POU3F1 as a Regulator of Cellular Response to Genotoxic Stress. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060810. [PMID: 31212703 PMCID: PMC6627474 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key mechanisms of apoptotic cell death by commonly used genotoxic drugs. However, the complex cellular response to these pharmacologic agents remains yet to be fully characterized. Several studies have described the role of transcription factor octamer-1 (Oct-1)/Pit-1, Oct-1/2, and Unc-86 shared domain class 2 homeobox 1 (POU2F1) in the regulation of the genes important for cellular response to genotoxic stress. Evaluating the possible involvement of other POU family transcription factors in these pathways, we revealed the inducible expression of Oct-6/POU3F1, a regulator of neural morphogenesis and epidermal differentiation, in cancer cells by genotoxic drugs. The induction of Oct-6 occurs at the transcriptional level via reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ataxia telangiectasia mutated- and Rad3-related (ATR)-dependent mechanisms, but in a p53 independent manner. Moreover, we provide evidence that Oct-6 may play a role in the regulation of cellular response to DNA damaging agents. Indeed, by using the shRNA approach, we demonstrate that in doxorubicin-treated H460 non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells, Oct-6 depletion leads to a reduced G2-cell cycle arrest and senescence, but also to increased levels of intracellular ROS and DNA damage. In addition, we could identify p21 and catalase as Oct-6 target genes possibly mediating these effects. These results demonstrate that Oct-6 is expressed in cancer cells after genotoxic stress, and suggests its possible role in the control of ROS, DNA damage response (DDR), and senescence.
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38
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Abruzzese MP, Bilotta MT, Fionda C, Zingoni A, Soriani A, Petrucci MT, Ricciardi MR, Molfetta R, Paolini R, Santoni A, Cippitelli M. The homeobox transcription factor MEIS2 is a regulator of cancer cell survival and IMiDs activity in Multiple Myeloma: modulation by Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal (BET) protein inhibitors. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:324. [PMID: 30975979 PMCID: PMC6459881 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1562-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The transcription factor Myeloid Ecotropic Insertion Site 2 (MEIS2) has been identified as a cellular substrate of the E3-ubiquitin ligase complex CRL4-cereblon (CRL4CRBN) in crystal structure and by biochemical screen. Emerging evidence suggests that IMiDs can block MEIS2 from binding to CRBN facilitating the subsequent activation of a CRL4CRBNIMiD-E3-ubiquitin ligase activity and proteasome-mediated degradation of critical substrates regulators of Multiple Myeloma (MM) cell survival and proliferation. Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal (BET) family of proteins are important epigenetic regulators involved in promoting gene expression of several oncogenes, and many studies have revealed important anticancer activities mediated by BET inhibitors (BETi) in hematologic malignancies including MM. Here, we investigated MEIS2 in MM, the role of this protein as a modulator of IMiDs activity and the ability of BETi to inhibit its expression. Our observations indicate that inhibition of MEIS2 in MM cells by RNA interference correlates with reduced growth, induction of apoptosis and enhanced efficacy of different anti-MM drugs. In addition, MEIS2 regulates the expression of Cyclin E/CCNE1 in MM and induction of apoptosis after treatment with the CDK inhibitor Seliciclib/Roscovitine. Interestingly, modulation of MEIS2 can regulate the expression of NKG2D and DNAM-1 NK cell-activating ligands and, importantly, the activity of IMiDs in MM cells. Finally, BETi have the ability to inhibit the expression of MEIS2 in MM, underscoring a novel anticancer activity mediated by these drugs. Our study provides evidence on the role of MEIS2 in MM cell survival and suggests therapeutic strategies targeting of MEIS2 to enhance IMiDs anti-myeloma activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Petrucci
- Division of Hematology, Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Ricciardi
- Hematology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Molfetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. .,Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Roma, RM, Italy. .,IRCCS, Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Natural Killer Cells as Key Players of Tumor Progression and Angiogenesis: Old and Novel Tools to Divert Their Pro-Tumor Activities into Potent Anti-Tumor Effects. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040461. [PMID: 30939820 PMCID: PMC6521276 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune cells, as a consequence of their plasticity, can acquire altered phenotype/functions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Some of these aberrant functions include attenuation of targeting and killing of tumor cells, tolerogenic/immunosuppressive behavior and acquisition of pro-angiogenic activities. Natural killer (NK) cells are effector lymphocytes involved in tumor immunosurveillance. In solid malignancies, tumor-associated NK cells (TANK cells) in peripheral blood and tumor-infiltrating NK (TINK) cells show altered phenotypes and are characterized by either anergy or reduced cytotoxicity. Here, we aim at discussing how NK cells can support tumor progression and how induction of angiogenesis, due to TME stimuli, can be a relevant part on the NK cell-associated tumor supporting activities. We will review and discuss the contribution of the TME in shaping NK cell response favoring cancer progression. We will focus on TME-derived set of factors such as TGF-β, soluble HLA-G, prostaglandin E2, adenosine, extracellular vesicles, and miRNAs, which can exhibit a dual function. On one hand, these factors can suppress NK cell-mediated activities but, on the other hand, they can induce a pro-angiogenic polarization in NK cells. Also, we will analyze the impact on cancer progression of the interaction of NK cells with several TME-associated cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, mast cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. Then, we will discuss the most relevant therapeutic approaches aimed at potentiating/restoring NK cell activities against tumors. Finally, supported by the literature revision and our new findings on NK cell pro-angiogenic activities, we uphold NK cells to a key host cellular paradigm in controlling tumor progression and angiogenesis; thus, we should bear in mind NK cells like a TME-associated target for anti-tumor therapeutic approaches.
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Cucè M, Gallo Cantafio ME, Siciliano MA, Riillo C, Caracciolo D, Scionti F, Staropoli N, Zuccalà V, Maltese L, Di Vito A, Grillone K, Barbieri V, Arbitrio M, Di Martino MT, Rossi M, Amodio N, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Botta C. Trabectedin triggers direct and NK-mediated cytotoxicity in multiple myeloma. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:32. [PMID: 30898137 PMCID: PMC6429746 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genomic instability is a feature of multiple myeloma (MM), and impairment in DNA damaging response (DDR) has an established role in disease pathobiology. Indeed, a deregulation of DNA repair pathways may contribute to genomic instability, to the establishment of drug resistance to genotoxic agents, and to the escape from immune surveillance. On these bases, we evaluated the role of different DDR pathways in MM and investigated, for the first time, the direct and immune-mediated anti-MM activity of the nucleotide excision repair (NER)-dependent agent trabectedin. METHODS Gene-expression profiling (GEP) was carried out with HTA2.0 Affymetrix array. Evaluation of apoptosis, cell cycle, and changes in cytokine production and release have been performed in 2D and 3D Matrigel-spheroid models through flow cytometry on MM cell lines and patients-derived primary MM cells exposed to increasing nanomolar concentrations of trabectedin. DNA-damage response has been evaluated through Western blot, immunofluorescence, and DNA fragmentation assay. Trabectedin-induced activation of NK has been assessed by CD107a degranulation. miRNAs quantification has been done through RT-PCR. RESULTS By comparing GEP meta-analysis of normal and MM plasma cells (PCs), we observed an enrichment in DNA NER genes in poor prognosis MM. Trabectedin triggered apoptosis in primary MM cells and MM cell lines in both 2D and 3D in vitro assays. Moreover, trabectedin induced DDR activation, cellular stress with ROS production, and cell cycle arrest. Additionally, a significant reduction of MCP1 cytokine and VEGF-A in U266-monocytes co-cultures was observed, confirming the impairment of MM-promoting milieu. Drug-induced cell stress in MM cells led to upregulation of NK activating receptors ligands (i.e., NKG2D), which translated into increased NK activation and degranulation. Mechanistically, this effect was linked to trabectedin-induced inhibition of NKG2D-ligands negative regulators IRF4 and IKZF1, as well as to miR-17 family downregulation in MM cells. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our findings indicate a pleiotropic activity of NER-targeting agent trabectedin, which appears a promising candidate for novel anti-MM therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cucè
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Eugenia Gallo Cantafio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Anna Siciliano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Caterina Riillo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Daniele Caracciolo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesca Scionti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Staropoli
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Di Vito
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vito Barbieri
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Mariamena Arbitrio
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, UOS of Pharmacology, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Di Martino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy.
- Medical and Translational Oncology Units, AOU Mater Domini, Catanzaro, Italy.
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Cirino Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Salvatore Venuta University Campus, Viale Europa, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
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Sarkar S, McKenney S, Sabhachandani P, Adler J, Hu X, Stroopinksy D, Rosenblatt J, Avigan D, Konry T. Anti-myeloma activity and molecular logic operation by Natural Killer cells in microfluidic droplets. SENSORS AND ACTUATORS. B, CHEMICAL 2019; 282:580-589. [PMID: 31537955 PMCID: PMC6752214 DOI: 10.1016/j.snb.2018.11.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Immune-targeted therapies that activate effector lymphocytes such as Natural Killer (NK) cells are currently being investigated for the treatment of Multiple myeloma (MM), the second most common form of hematological cancer. However, individual NK cells are highly heterogeneous in their cytolytic potential, making it difficult to detect, quantify and correlate the outcome of dynamic effector-target cell interactions at single cell resolution. Here, we present a microfluidic bioassay platform capable of activity-based screening of cellular and molecular immunotherapies. We identified distinct functional signatures associated with NK-MM cell interaction. The addition of immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide altered responses of NK-susceptible MM cells but not that of NK-tolerant MM cells. Antitumor cytotoxicity was significantly increased by the blockade of PD1/PDL1 axis as well as the clinically relevant cell line NK92, which were used to construct molecular logic functions (AND and NOT gates). A predictive agent-based mathematical model was developed to simulate progressive disease states and drug efficacy. The findings of the current study validate the applicability of this microfluidic cytotoxicity assay for immunotherapy screening, biocomputation and for future employment in detection of patient-specific cell response for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saheli Sarkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - Seamus McKenney
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - Pooja Sabhachandani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - James Adler
- Department of Mathematics, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Xiaozhe Hu
- Department of Mathematics, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Dina Stroopinksy
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Jacalyn Rosenblatt
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - David Avigan
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Tania Konry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115
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Kwon E, Li X, Deng Y, Chang HW, Kim DY. AMPK is down-regulated by the CRL4A-CRBN axis through the polyubiquitination of AMPKα isoforms. FASEB J 2019; 33:6539-6550. [PMID: 30807229 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801766rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
As a master regulator for metabolic and energy homeostasis, AMPK controls the activity of metabolic enzymes and transcription factors in response to cellular ATP status. AMPK has been thus recognized as a main target for the regulation of cellular energy metabolism. Here, we report that AMPK can be down-regulated by the cullin-RING ubiquitin E3 ligase 4A (CRL4A) with cereblon (CRBN). CRL4A interacted with AMPK holoenzymes and mediated AMPKα-specific polyubiquitination for its proteasomal degradation through non-K48 polyubiquitin linkages. In the ubiquitination system, CRBN was required for efficient polyubiquitination of AMPKα subunits. Consistently, polyubiquitination of AMPKα subunits was reduced by inhibitors of CRL4A-CRBN. Physiologic function of AMPK down-regulation by CRL4-CRBN was also confirmed using mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs). The inactivation of CRL4A-CRBN in BMMC increased AMPK stability and suppressed secretion of allergic mediators via AMPK activation followed by MAPK inhibition. In addition, CRBN knockout of BMMC also decreased allergic responses in mice. Our results suggest that the CRL4A-CRBN axis could be a target for the regulation of AMPK-dependent responses.-Kwon, E., Li, X., Deng, Y., Chang, H. W., Kim, D. Y. AMPK is down-regulated by the CRL4A-CRBN axis through the polyubiquitination of AMPKα isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunju Kwon
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Xian Li
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Yifeng Deng
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Hyeun Wook Chang
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Dong Young Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
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43
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Lazarova M, Steinle A. The NKG2D axis: an emerging target in cancer immunotherapy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:281-294. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1580693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Lazarova
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander Steinle
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Vulpis E, Stabile H, Soriani A, Fionda C, Petrucci MT, Mariggio' E, Ricciardi MR, Cippitelli M, Gismondi A, Santoni A, Zingoni A. Key Role of the CD56 lowCD16 low Natural Killer Cell Subset in the Recognition and Killing of Multiple Myeloma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10120473. [PMID: 30501078 PMCID: PMC6317053 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10120473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in the immunosurveillance of Multiple Myeloma (MM), but it is still undefined whether the NK cell functional properties underlying their protective activity against MM are confined to distinct NK cell populations. Interestingly, herein we report that the CD56lowCD16low NK cell subset displayed higher cytolytic activity compared to the other NK cell subsets (i.e., CD56highCD16+/−, CD56lowCD16high) against MM cells and its activity was impaired in MM patients. Decreased DNAM-1 expression levels were observed on the CD56lowCD16low NK cells during MM progression. Evaluating NK cell subset frequency after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, we found that CD56lowCD16low NK cells recovered earlier after transplantation. Overall, our data denote a key role of CD56lowCD16low subpopulation in the killing of MM cells and suggest that the reconstitution of CD56lowCD16low subpopulation after HSCT could be a useful approach of adoptive immunotherapy in the treatment of relapsed/refractory MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Vulpis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Helena Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Teresa Petrucci
- Division of Hematology, Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Elena Mariggio'
- Division of Hematology, Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Ricciardi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Angela Gismondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
- IRCCS, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Tognarelli S, Wirsching S, von Metzler I, Rais B, Jacobs B, Serve H, Bader P, Ullrich E. Enhancing the Activation and Releasing the Brakes: A Double Hit Strategy to Improve NK Cell Cytotoxicity Against Multiple Myeloma. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2743. [PMID: 30542346 PMCID: PMC6277768 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes with a strong antitumor ability. In tumor patients, such as multiple myeloma (MM) patients, an elevated number of NK cells after stem cell transplantation (SCT) has been reported to be correlated with a higher overall survival rate. With the aim of improving NK cell use for adoptive cell therapy, we also addressed the cytotoxicity of patient-derived, cytokine-stimulated NK cells against MM cells at specific time points: at diagnosis and before and after autologous stem cell transplantation. Remarkably, after cytokine stimulation, the patients' NK cells did not significantly differ from those of healthy donors. In a small cohort of MM patients, we were able to isolate autologous tumor cells, and we could demonstrate that IL-2/15 stimulated autologous NK cells were able to significantly improve their killing capacity of autologous tumor cells. With the aim to further improve the NK cell killing capacity against MM cells, we investigated the potential use of NK specific check point inhibitors with focus on NKG2A because this inhibitory NK cell receptor was upregulated following ex vivo cytokine stimulation and MM cells showed HLA-E expression that could even be increased by exposure to IFN-γ. Importantly, blocking of NKG2A resulted in a significant increase in the NK cell-mediated lysis of different MM target cells. Finally, these results let suggest that combining cytokine induced NK cell activation and the specific check point inhibition of the NKG2A-mediated pathways can be an effective strategy to optimize NK cell therapeutic approaches for treatment of multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tognarelli
- Childrens Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wirsching
- Childrens Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ivana von Metzler
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Bushra Rais
- Childrens Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Benedikt Jacobs
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hubert Serve
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Bader
- Childrens Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Childrens Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
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Campbell KS, Cohen AD, Pazina T. Mechanisms of NK Cell Activation and Clinical Activity of the Therapeutic SLAMF7 Antibody, Elotuzumab in Multiple Myeloma. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2551. [PMID: 30455698 PMCID: PMC6230619 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a bone marrow plasma cell neoplasm and is the second most-common hematologic malignancy. Despite advances in therapy, MM remains largely incurable. Elotuzumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody targeting SLAMF7, which is highly expressed on myeloma cells, and the antibody is approved for the treatment of relapsed and/or refractory (RR) MM in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Elotuzumab can stimulate robust antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) through engaging with FcγRIIIA (CD16) on NK cells and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) by macrophages. Interestingly, SLAMF7 is also expressed on cytolytic NK cells, which also express the requisite adaptor protein, EAT-2, to mediate activation signaling. Accumulating evidence indicates that antibody crosslinking of SLAMF7 on human and mouse NK cells can stimulate EAT-2-dependent activation of PLCγ, ERK, and intracellular calcium mobilization. The binding of SLAMF7 by elotuzumab can directly induce signal transduction in human NK cells, including co-stimulation of the calcium signaling triggered through other surface receptors, such as NKp46 and NKG2D. In RRMM patients, elotuzumab monotherapy did not produce objective responses, but did enhance the activity of approved standard of care therapies, including lenalidomide or bortezomib, which are known to enhance anti-tumor responses by NK cells. Taken together, these preclinical results and accumulating experience in the clinic provide compelling evidence that the mechanism of action of elotuzumab in MM patients involves the activation of NK cells through both CD16-mediated ADCC and direct co-stimulation via engagement with SLAMF7, as well as promoting ADCP by macrophages. We review the current understanding of how elotuzumab utilizes multiple mechanisms to facilitate immune-mediated attack of myeloma cells, as well as outline goals for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry S Campbell
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Adam D Cohen
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tatiana Pazina
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,FSBSI "Institute of Experimental Medicine", St. Petersburg, Russia
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Fionda C, Stabile H, Molfetta R, Soriani A, Bernardini G, Zingoni A, Gismondi A, Paolini R, Cippitelli M, Santoni A. Translating the anti-myeloma activity of Natural Killer cells into clinical application. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 70:255-264. [PMID: 30326421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Natural Killer cells (NK) are innate effector cells with a critical role in immunosurveillance against different kinds of cancer cells, including Multiple Myeloma (MM). However, the number and/or function of these lymphocytes are strongly reduced during MM progression and in advanced clinical stages. A better understanding of the mechanisms controlling both MM and NK cell biology have greatly contributed to develop novel and combined therapeutic strategies in the treatment of this incurable hematologic malignancy. These include approaches to reverse the immunosuppressive MM microenvironment or potentiate the natural or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of NK cells. Moreover, chemotherapeutic drugs or specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) can render cancer cells more susceptible to NK cell-mediated recognition and lysis; direct enhancement of NK cell function can be obtained by means of immunomodulatory drugs, cytokines and blocking mAbs targeting NK cell inhibitory receptors. Finally, adoptive transfer of ex-vivo expanded and genetically manipulated NK cells is also a promising therapeutic tool for MM. Here, we review current knowledge on complex mechanisms affecting NK cell activity during MM progression. We also discuss recent advances on innovative approaches aimed at boosting the functions of these cytotoxic innate lymphocytes. In particular, we focus our attention on recent preclinical and clinical studies addressing the therapeutic potential of different NK cell-based strategies for the management of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy.
| | - Helena Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Molfetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernardini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy; IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Gismondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy; IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
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Sagar F, Malik SU, Soontornprueksa S, Ijaz A, Usman M, Khan AY, Tenneti P, Fraz MA, Anwer F. Extrapyramidal Symptoms with Administration of Lenalidomide Maintenance Therapy for Multiple Myeloma. Cureus 2018; 10:e3349. [PMID: 30483455 PMCID: PMC6255714 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.3349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Lenalidomide is commonly used as induction or maintenance therapy in multiple myeloma. We report a case of 71-year-old female presenting with tardive dyskinesia-like symptoms one month after starting her lenalidomide maintenance therapy after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell rescue. Her symptoms evolved over days to pronounced uncontrollable limb movements, tongue smacking, lip-smacking, abnormal sounds, and tongue biting. The patient categorically denied any exposure to other drugs which are known to cause symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. The patient underwent a thorough evaluation, stopped the lenalidomide, and received therapy to control her symptoms with a gradual improvement over a six-week period. There is a paucity of literature on the association of lenalidomide with tardive dyskinesia. Common central nervous system-related side effects include peripheral neuropathy, dizziness, dysgeusia, headache, tremor, somnolence, and memory impairment. Very few studies in the existing literature have reported an association of tardive dyskinesia with lenalidomide therapy. Here, we present a case of an elderly female with multiple myeloma who developed severe tardive dyskinesia while she was on lenalidomide maintenance therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fnu Sagar
- Internal Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, USA
| | | | | | - Awais Ijaz
- Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona, Tucson, USA
| | | | | | - Pavan Tenneti
- Internal Medicine, Banner University Medical Center, Tucson, USA
| | | | - Faiz Anwer
- Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona, Tucson, USA
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Agnarelli A, Chevassut T, Mancini EJ. IRF4 in multiple myeloma—Biology, disease and therapeutic target. Leuk Res 2018; 72:52-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2018.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Holstein SA, Suman VJ, McCarthy PL. Update on the role of lenalidomide in patients with multiple myeloma. Ther Adv Hematol 2018; 9:175-190. [PMID: 30013765 DOI: 10.1177/2040620718775629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lenalidomide is a derivative of thalidomide and belongs to the class of drugs known as the immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). The IMiDs have played a large role in improving the survival outcomes of patients with multiple myeloma. In particular, lenalidomide is currently standard of care in the newly diagnosed setting, in the maintenance setting post-autologous stem cell transplant, as well as in the relapsed/refractory setting. While the combination of lenalidomide and various proteasome inhibitors has proven particularly effective, there are emerging data demonstrating the effectiveness of lenalidomide in combination with other important classes of drugs including the monoclonal antibodies. Recent studies have provided insight into the molecular target of lenalidomide and the other IMiDs, although there is still much to be learned regarding the mechanisms by which lenalidomide affects the myeloma cell and the immune system. Here we review the molecular mechanisms of action, side effects, and the results of the clinical trials which have led to the widespread incorporation of lenalidomide into the myeloma therapeutic armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Holstein
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Vera J Suman
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Philip L McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Blood and Marrow Transplant Center, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, Elm and Carlton Streets, CSC 815, NY 14263, USA
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