1
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Martin SP, Mehta N, Emamaullee J. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in liver transplantation: Current practice, challenges, and opportunities. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:742-752. [PMID: 38345379 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are becoming a mainstay of cancer treatment. While first studied and approved for patients with unresectable disease, due to their efficacy, they are becoming increasingly used in the perioperative period across many cancer types. In patients with HCC, immune checkpoint inhibitors have now become the standard of care in the advanced setting and have shown promising results in the adjuvant setting after liver resection. While these drugs continue to show promise, their role in the peritransplant setting still remains a question. In this review, we explore the current use of this class of medications in patients with HCC, as well as the immunologic role of the pathways that they inhibit. We also identify potential for future research opportunities to better understand the role of these medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean P Martin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Neil Mehta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Juliet Emamaullee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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2
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Liu MC, Lizaola-Mayo B, Jayasekera CR, Mathur AK, Katariya N, Aqel B, Byrne TJ, Chascsa DMH. Downstaging Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy Improves Access to Curative Liver Transplant. J Gastrointest Cancer 2024; 55:969-974. [PMID: 38483692 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-024-01040-8] [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] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Liver transplantation is curative for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Checkpoint inhibitor therapy (CPIT) has been used in unresectable HCC, but recent advances have demonstrated CPIT as an innovative method of downstaging advanced HCC with the caveat that CPIT prior to transplantation has risks including irreversible graft rejection. We report the outcomes of Mayo Clinic Arizona patients who underwent downstaging with CPIT. METHODS This retrospective chart review was conducted for Mayo Clinic Arizona patients who were diagnosed with HCC who underwent downstaging with CPIT with the goal of meeting criteria for transplantation. RESULTS We present nine cases with HCC outside Milan who underwent CPIT. Four received a transplant; one was delisted due to his exceptional therapeutic response. All received liver-directed therapy. Peak alpha-fetoprotein pre-CPIT ranged from 8-29,523 ng/mL, which decreased to 2.2-19.6 ng/mL on CPIT. CPIT included atezolizumab/bevacizumab, ipilimumab/nivolumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab; one patient received two regimens. CPIT was held prior to transplant at a median of 3 months. Three patients received methylprednisolone for immunosuppression induction; one received thymoglobulin. One patient developed acute cellular rejection at 5 weeks, 9 weeks, and 5 months post-transplant; given the late onset, these were not attributed to CPIT and were successfully treated. During an average follow-up of 16.5 months, no tumor recurrence has occurred. CONCLUSION We describe nine patients with HCC outside Milan with inadequate response with liver-directed therapy, who achieved marked responses with CPIT, allowing for consideration of successful liver transplantation. Our case series supports the consideration of locoregional therapies and CPIT for downstaging to within transplant criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret C Liu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA.
| | - Blanca Lizaola-Mayo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Channa R Jayasekera
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Amit K Mathur
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Nitin Katariya
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Bashar Aqel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Thomas J Byrne
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - David M H Chascsa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
- Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
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3
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Cillo U, Carraro A, Avolio AW, Cescon M, Di Benedetto F, Giannelli V, Magistri P, Nicolini D, Vivarelli M, Lanari J. Immunosuppression in liver transplant oncology: position paper of the Italian Board of Experts in Liver Transplantation (I-BELT). Updates Surg 2024; 76:725-741. [PMID: 38713396 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-024-01845-z] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Liver transplant oncology (TO) represents an area of increasing clinical and scientific interest including a heterogeneous group of clinical-pathological settings. Immunosuppressive management after LT is a key factor relevantly impacting result. However, disease-related guidance is still lacking, and many open questions remain in the field. Based on such a substantial lack of solid evidences, the Italian Board of Experts in Liver Transplantation (I-BELT) (a working group including representatives of all national transplant centers), unprecedently promoted a methodologically sound consensus conference on the topic, based on the GRADE approach. The group final recommendations are herein presented and commented. The 18 PICOs and Statements and their levels of evidence and grades of recommendation are reported and grouped into seven areas: (1) risk stratification by histopathological and bio-molecular parameters and role of mTORi post-LT; (2) steroids and HCC recurrence; (3) management of immunosuppression when HCC recurs after LT; (4) mTORi monotherapy; (5) machine perfusion and HCC recurrence after LT; (6) physiopathology of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and immunosuppression, the role of inflammation; (7) immunotherapy in liver transplanted patients. The interest in mammalian targets of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi), for steroid avoidance and the need for a reduction to CNI exposure emerged from the consensus process. A selected list of unmet needs prompting further investigations have also been developed. The so far heterogeneous and granular approach to immunosuppression in oncologic patients deserves greater efforts for a more standardized therapeutic response to the different clinical scenarios. This consensus process makes a first unprecedented step in this direction, to be developed on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Cillo
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, General Surgery 2 Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Padua University Hospital, Via Giustiniani 2, 34128, Padua, PD, Italy.
| | - Amedeo Carraro
- Liver Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery and Oncology, University Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alfonso W Avolio
- Department of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Cescon
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria-Policlinico S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Di Benedetto
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valerio Giannelli
- Liver Unit, Department of Liver Transplant, Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Magistri
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Nicolini
- Hepatobiliary and Abdominal Transplantation Surgery, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Riuniti Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Vivarelli
- Hepatobiliary and Abdominal Transplantation Surgery, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Riuniti Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Jacopo Lanari
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, General Surgery 2 Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Padua University Hospital, Via Giustiniani 2, 34128, Padua, PD, Italy
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4
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Kim SJ, Cummins KC, Tsung A. Immunotherapy as a Complement to Surgical Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1852. [PMID: 38791931 PMCID: PMC11120323 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor in adults, and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. While surgical and ablative therapies remain the standard of care in early localized disease, late presentation with advanced stages of disease, impaired hepatic function, or local recurrence following surgical resection preclude operative management as the sole treatment modality in a subgroup of patients. As such, systemic therapies, namely immunotherapy, have become an integral part of the HCC treatment algorithm over the past decade. While agents, such as atezolizumab/bevacizumab, have well-established roles as first-line systemic therapy in intermediate- and advanced-stage HCC, the role of immunotherapy in disease amenable to surgical management continues to evolve. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence and aggregate impact of immunotherapy in the context of HCC amenable to surgical management, including its application in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
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5
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Yue M, Li C, Li G. New advances in the study of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors-induced liver injury. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 131:111799. [PMID: 38460297 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111799] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
The application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has made extraordinary achievements in tumor treatment. Among them, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors can improve the prognosis of advanced tumors, and have been widely used in clinical practice to treat many types of cancers. However, excessive immune response can also induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs) involving many organs. Of these, immune-related liver injury is the relatively common and carries the highest morbidity, which has attracted the attention of hepatologists all over the world. The incidence of this type of liver injury depends specifically on factors such as the type of drug being combined, viral infection, type of cancer and liver transplantation. Although there is no unanimity on the mechanism of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-induced liver injury, in this review, we also summarize the current evidence that provides insights into the pathogenesis of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-induced liver injury, including the fact that PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors cause reactivation of CTLs, aberrant presentation of autoantigens, hepatic immune tolerance environment is disrupted, and cytokine secretion, among other effects. Patients usually develop liver injury after the use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, and clinical symptoms mainly include weakness, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, and jaundice. Histologically, the main manifestation is lobular hepatitis with lobular inflammatory infiltration. Since the specific biomarkers for PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-associated liver injury have not been identified yet, alpha-fetoprotein, IL-6, and IL-33 have the potential to be biomarkers for predicting this type of liver injury in the future, but this requires further research. We also describe the examination and treatment of this type of liver injury, which usually includes eliminating related influencing factors, regularly monitoring liver function, temporarily retaining or permanently stopping ICIs treatment according to the severity of toxicity, and using corticosteroids. This review may provide useful information for the future clinical practice of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijun Yue
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Guohui Li
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
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6
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Kim DS, Yoon YI, Kim BK, Choudhury A, Kulkarni A, Park JY, Kim J, Sinn DH, Joo DJ, Choi Y, Lee JH, Choi HJ, Yoon KT, Yim SY, Park CS, Kim DG, Lee HW, Choi WM, Chon YE, Kang WH, Rhu J, Lee JG, Cho Y, Sung PS, Lee HA, Kim JH, Bae SH, Yang JM, Suh KS, Al Mahtab M, Tan SS, Abbas Z, Shresta A, Alam S, Arora A, Kumar A, Rathi P, Bhavani R, Panackel C, Lee KC, Li J, Yu ML, George J, Tanwandee T, Hsieh SY, Yong CC, Rela M, Lin HC, Omata M, Sarin SK. Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver clinical practice guidelines on liver transplantation. Hepatol Int 2024; 18:299-383. [PMID: 38416312 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10629-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is a highly complex and challenging field of clinical practice. Although it was originally developed in western countries, it has been further advanced in Asian countries through the use of living donor liver transplantation. This method of transplantation is the only available option in many countries in the Asia-Pacific region due to the lack of deceased organ donation. As a result of this clinical situation, there is a growing need for guidelines that are specific to the Asia-Pacific region. These guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations for evidence-based management throughout the entire process of liver transplantation, covering both deceased and living donor liver transplantation. In addition, the development of these guidelines has been a collaborative effort between medical professionals from various countries in the region. This has allowed for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to a more comprehensive and effective set of guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Sik Kim
- Department of Surgery, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-In Yoon
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Jun Yong Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongman Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Sinn
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Jin Joo
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungRok Choi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Joong Choi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Tae Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University College of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Young Yim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheon-Soo Park
- Department of Surgery, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Deok-Gie Kim
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Won Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Mook Choi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Eun Chon
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Hyoung Kang
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinsoo Rhu
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Geun Lee
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuri Cho
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, Ilsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil Soo Sung
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Ah Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Si Hyun Bae
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Mo Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyung-Suk Suh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Mamun Al Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Soek Siam Tan
- Department of Medicine, Hospital Selayang, Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zaigham Abbas
- Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ananta Shresta
- Department of Hepatology, Alka Hospital, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Shahinul Alam
- Crescent Gastroliver and General Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Anil Arora
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Pravin Rathi
- TN Medical College and BYL Nair Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Ruveena Bhavani
- University of Malaya Medical Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Kuei Chuan Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jun Li
- College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - H C Lin
- Endoscopy Center for Diagnosis and Treatment, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Masao Omata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamanashi Central Hospital, Yamanashi, Japan
- University of Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Japan
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Tabrizian P, Zeitlhoefler M, Hassan AT, Marino R. Immunotherapy for transplantation of hepatocellular carcinoma: the next frontier in adjunctive therapy. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2024; 29:144-154. [PMID: 38164882 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000001133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The increasing success of liver transplantation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) drives an ever-evolving search for innovative strategies to broaden eligible patients' pools. Recent advances in immuno-oncology have turned the spotlight on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This review offers an updated overview of ICIs in liver transplantation for HCC, exploring neoadjuvant and adjuvant approaches and addressing unanswered questions on safety, patients' selection, and response predictors. RECENT FINDINGS ICIs have transitioned from being a last-chance therapeutic hope to becoming an integral cornerstone in the treatment of advanced HCC, holding great promise as a compelling option not only to downstage patients for transplantation but also as an alternative strategy in addressing posttransplantation disease recurrence. Despite ongoing refinements in immunotherapeutic agents, the complex molecular pathways involved emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to integrate immunotherapy in liver transplantation. SUMMARY Initial concerns about graft rejection, with ICIs as a bridging therapy to liver transplantation, were successfully addressed using adequate immunosuppressants strategies and minimized with a sufficient washout period. Post-liver transplantation disease recurrence remains challenging, requiring a balance between effective therapy and preserving graft function. Emphasis should be placed on clinical trials validating the risk-benefit ratio of ICIs for liver transplantation, guiding appropriate patients' selection, and establishing clear management pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parissa Tabrizian
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati-Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Gordan JD, Kennedy EB, Abou-Alfa GK, Beal E, Finn RS, Gade TP, Goff L, Gupta S, Guy J, Hoang HT, Iyer R, Jaiyesimi I, Jhawer M, Karippot A, Kaseb AO, Kelley RK, Kortmansky J, Leaf A, Remak WM, Sohal DPS, Taddei TH, Wilson Woods A, Yarchoan M, Rose MG. Systemic Therapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: ASCO Guideline Update. J Clin Oncol 2024:JCO2302745. [PMID: 38502889 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.02745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To update an evidence-based guideline to assist in clinical decision-making for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS ASCO convened an Expert Panel to update the 2020 guideline on systemic therapy for HCC. The panel updated the systematic review to include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published through October 2023 and updated recommendations. RESULTS Ten new RCTs met the inclusion criteria and were added to the evidence base. RECOMMENDATIONS Atezolizumab + bevacizumab (atezo + bev) or durvalumab + tremelimumab (durva + treme) may be offered first-line for patients with advanced HCC, Child-Pugh class A liver disease, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-1. Where there are contraindications to these therapies, sorafenib, lenvatinib, or durvalumab may be offered first-line. Following first-line treatment with atezo + bev, second-line therapy with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), ramucirumab (for patients with alpha-fetoprotein [AFP] ≥400 ng/mL), durva + treme, or nivolumab + ipilimumab (nivo + ipi) may be recommended for appropriate candidates. Following first-line therapy with durva + treme, second-line therapy with a TKI is recommended. Following first-line treatment with sorafenib or lenvatinib, second-line therapy options include cabozantinib, regorafenib for patients who previously tolerated sorafenib, ramucirumab (AFP ≥400 ng/mL), nivo + ipi, or durvalumab; atezo + bev or durva + treme may be considered for patients who did not have access to these therapies in the first-line setting, and do not have contraindications. Pembrolizumab or nivolumab are also options for appropriate patients following sorafenib or lenvatinib. Third-line therapy may be considered in Child-Pugh class A patients with good PS, using one of the agents listed previously that has a nonidentical mechanism of action with previously received therapy. A cautious approach to systemic therapy is recommended for patients with Child-Pugh class B advanced HCC. Further guidance on choosing between options is included within the guideline.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/gastrointestinal-cancer-guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Gordan
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Ghassan K Abou-Alfa
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Medical College at Cornell University, New York, NY
- Trinity College Dublin Medical School, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | | | - Laura Goff
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
| | | | | | | | - Renuka Iyer
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | | | | | | | | | - R Kate Kelley
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Andrea Leaf
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Brooklyn, NY
| | - William M Remak
- California Hepatitis C Task Force, California Chronic Care Coalition, FAIR Foundation, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Tamar H Taddei
- Yale University School of Medicine and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
| | | | | | - Michal G Rose
- Yale Cancer Center and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
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Tabrizian P, Yu A, Debnath N, Myers B, Marron T. Immunotherapy and Liver Transplantation: The Future or the Failure? Surg Clin North Am 2024; 104:163-182. [PMID: 37953034 DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
A quarter century has passed since the milestone study by Mazzaferro and colleagues on liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The increasing demand for LT for HCC has led to the continued efforts to expand LT indications. Downstaging to within Milan criteria has been incorporated into the organ allocation policy for HCC in the United States in 2017 and provides acceptable long-term survival. The present review focuses on the rationale of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) in HCC, the experience of ICI in the pre- and posttransplant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parissa Tabrizian
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Allen Yu
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Neha Debnath
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Bryan Myers
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Thomas Marron
- Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy, New York, NY 10029, USA
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10
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Sankar K, Gong J, Osipov A, Miles SA, Kosari K, Nissen NN, Hendifar AE, Koltsova EK, Yang JD. Recent advances in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Mol Hepatol 2024; 30:1-15. [PMID: 37482076 PMCID: PMC10776289 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2023.0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains a challenge of global health, being the 4th leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, and is usually precipitated by chronic viral infections (hepatitis B and C), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, heavy alcohol use, and other factors which may lead to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis of the liver. There have been significant advances in the systemic treatment options for HCC over the past decades, with several approvals of both immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with preserved liver function. These advances have led to improvement in survival outcomes, with expected survival of greater than 18 months, in those with sensitive tumors, adequate liver function, and those functionally fit to receive sequential therapies. Several ongoing and promising trials are now evaluating combinational strategies with novel systemic agents and combinations of systemic therapy with locoregional therapy. In view of these trials, further advances in the treatment of HCC are foreseen in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamya Sankar
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jun Gong
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arsen Osipov
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steven A. Miles
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kambiz Kosari
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas N. Nissen
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrew E. Hendifar
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ekaterina K. Koltsova
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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Abdelrahim M, Esmail A, Abudayyeh A, Murakami N, Victor D, Kodali S, Cheah YL, Simon CJ, Noureddin M, Connor A, Saharia A, Moore LW, Heyne K, Kaseb AO, Gaber AO, Ghobrial RM. Transplant Oncology: An Emerging Discipline of Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5337. [PMID: 38001597 PMCID: PMC10670243 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225337] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Transplant oncology is an emerging concept of cancer treatment with a promising prospective outcome. The applications of oncology, transplant medicine, and surgery are the core of transplant oncology to improve patients' survival and quality of life. The main concept of transplant oncology is to radically cure cancer by removing the diseased organ and replacing it with a healthy one, aiming to improve the survival outcomes and quality of life of cancer patients. Subsequently, it seeks to expand the treatment options and research for hepatobiliary malignancies, which have seen significantly improved survival outcomes after the implementation of liver transplantation (LT). In the case of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the transplant setting, where the liver is the most common site of metastasis of patients who are considered to have unresectable disease, initial studies have shown improved survival for LT treatment compared to palliative therapy interventions. The indications of LT for hepatobiliary malignancies have been slowly expanded over the years beyond Milan criteria in a stepwise manner. However, the outcome improvements and overall patient survival are limited to the specifics of the setting and systematic intervention options. This review aims to illustrate the representative concepts and history of transplant oncology as an emerging discipline for the management of hepatobiliary malignancies, in addition to other emerging concepts, such as the uses of immunotherapy in a peri-transplant setting as well as the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for surveillance post-transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maen Abdelrahim
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.E.)
- Cockrell Center of Advanced Therapeutics Phase I Program, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Abdullah Esmail
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.E.)
| | - Ala Abudayyeh
- Section of Nephrology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Naoka Murakami
- Division of Renal Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - David Victor
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sudha Kodali
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yee Lee Cheah
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Caroline J. Simon
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mazen Noureddin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ashton Connor
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ashish Saharia
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Linda W. Moore
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kirk Heyne
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.E.)
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ahmed O. Kaseb
- Department of Gastrointestinal (GI) Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - A. Osama Gaber
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rafik Mark Ghobrial
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr. Center for Transplantation, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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12
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Alghamdi S, Al-Hamoudi W. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of Immunotherapy and Transplantation in the Era of Transplant Oncology. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5115. [PMID: 37958291 PMCID: PMC10648843 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths worldwide. As most patients present with advanced disease, curative therapy such as surgical resection and radiofrequency ablation are rarely utilized. With the advent of immunotherapy, historical treatment approaches such as liver transplantation are being challenged. In particular, the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has emerged as a safe and useful option in the treatment of HCC. However, there is concern over adverse effects, such as graft rejection and graft loss. This updated review discusses the role of immunotherapy in the pre- and post-transplantation setting and provides insights into the potential of immunotherapy as an adjunct to liver transplantation. We deliberate on the use of ICI in the setting of the Milan criteria as well as the University of California San Francisco's expanded criteria for liver transplantation. Current data suggest that ICI has utility, especially in the pretransplantation setting. Nevertheless, larger, purposefully designed clinical trials are needed to clearly identify patients who will benefit most from ICI treatment in the transplant setting and determine parameters that will minimize the risk of graft rejection and maximize the benefits of this adjunct treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Alghamdi
- Liver & Small Bowel Health Centre Department, Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Waleed Al-Hamoudi
- Liver & Small Bowel Health Centre Department, Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia;
- Liver Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
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13
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Lebhar J, Jacobs J, Faraz K, Salama AK, Mosca PJ. Liver transplant patient with in-transit squamous cell carcinoma treated with talimogene laherparepvec. JAAD Case Rep 2023; 40:53-57. [PMID: 37711513 PMCID: PMC10497912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2023.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Lebhar
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | - April K.S. Salama
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Paul J. Mosca
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina
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14
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Wassmer CH, El Hajji S, Papazarkadas X, Compagnon P, Tabrizian P, Lacotte S, Toso C. Immunotherapy and Liver Transplantation: A Narrative Review of Basic and Clinical Data. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4574. [PMID: 37760542 PMCID: PMC10526934 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have improved the management of patients with intermediate- and advanced-stage HCC, even making some of them potential candidates for liver transplantation. However, acute rejection has been observed after ICI therapy, challenging its safety in transplant settings. We summarize the key basic impact of immune checkpoints on HCC and liver transplantation. We analyze the available case reports and case series on the use of ICI therapy prior to and after liver transplantation. A three-month washout period is desirable between ICI therapy and liver transplantation to reduce the risk of acute rejection. Whenever possible, ICIs should be avoided after liver transplantation, and especially so early after a transplant. Globally, more robust prospective data in the field are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles-Henri Wassmer
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.E.H.); (X.P.); (S.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Sofia El Hajji
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.E.H.); (X.P.); (S.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Xenofon Papazarkadas
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.E.H.); (X.P.); (S.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Philippe Compagnon
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Parissa Tabrizian
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10019, USA;
| | - Stéphanie Lacotte
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.E.H.); (X.P.); (S.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Christian Toso
- Division of Abdominal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.E.H.); (X.P.); (S.L.); (C.T.)
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15
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Cesario S, Genovesi V, Salani F, Vasile E, Fornaro L, Vivaldi C, Masi G. Evolving Landscape in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: From Stage Migration to Immunotherapy Revolution. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1562. [PMID: 37511937 PMCID: PMC10382048 DOI: 10.3390/life13071562] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) represents the primary curative option for HCC. Despite the extension of transplantation criteria and conversion with down-staging loco-regional treatments, transplantation is not always possible. The introduction of new standards of care in advanced HCC including a combination of immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapies led to an improvement in response rates and could represent a promising strategy for down-staging the tumor burden. In this review, we identify reports and series, comprising a total of 43 patients who received immune checkpoint inhibitors as bridging or down-staging therapies prior to LT. Overall, treated patients registered an objective response rate of 21%, and 14 patients were reduced within the Milan criteria. Graft rejection was reported in seven patients, resulting in the death of four patients; in the remaining cases, LT was performed safely after immunotherapy. Further investigations are required to define the duration of immune checkpoint inhibitors, their minimum washout period and the LT long-term safety of this strategy. Some randomized clinical trials including immunotherapy combinations, loco-regional treatment and/or tyrosine kinase inhibitors are ongoing and will likely determine the appropriateness of immune checkpoint inhibitors' administration before LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cesario
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Virginia Genovesi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Salani
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Research "Health Science", Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Enrico Vasile
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Fornaro
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Caterina Vivaldi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Masi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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16
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Hsu YC, Chen CH, Huang HF, Lee YT, Wu MC, Su CW, Chou HC, Wang LF, Lee HS, Lin SW, Hsu PN, Wu YM, Sheu JC, Weng MT. Therapeutic Effects of Anti-PD1 Immunotherapy on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Under Administration of Tacrolimus. Transplantation 2023; 107:1492-1501. [PMID: 36380450 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recurrence of HCC after LT occurs in 10% to 20% of cases. Preclinical studies to evaluate immune checkpoint inhibitors in conjunction with immunosuppressant treatment in transplant recipients have been lacking. Here, we evaluated the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of programmed cell death-1 (PD1) blockade under tacrolimus treatment in transplant recipients. METHODS We used a murine allogeneic skin transplantation model and murine syngeneic subcutaneous and orthotopic HCC models and measured the tumor volume and the change in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes under PD1 blockade and tacrolimus treatment. RESULTS Tacrolimus treatment prolonged allograft survival in the allogeneic transplantation model and enhanced tumor growth in both subcutaneous and orthotopic HCC models. PD1 blockade suppressed tumor growth and lung metastasis in correlation with the number of infiltrating CD8 + T cells. Under tacrolimus treatment, PD1 blockade still resulted in an antitumor effect accompanied by a significant increase in tumor-infiltrating CD8 + T cells, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and natural killer T cells. Tacrolimus treatment rescued the acceleration of transplant rejection induced by PD1 blockade in the allogeneic transplantation model. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that treatment with high-dose tacrolimus in conjunction with PD1 blockade has an antitumor effect and reduces transplant rejection in mouse models of allograft skin transplantation and HCC. Thus, these results suggest that a clinical trial of PD1 inhibitors for HCC in LT merits consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Hsu
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chien-Hung Chen
- Department of Medicine, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hui-Fu Huang
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ying-Te Lee
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Meng-Chuan Wu
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chien-Wen Su
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Huei-Chi Chou
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Li-Fang Wang
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hsuan-Shu Lee
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shu-Wha Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ping-Ning Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yao-Ming Wu
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jin-Chuan Sheu
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Meng-Tzu Weng
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China
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17
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Szymanska S, Markiewicz-Kijewska M, Pyzlak M, Karkucinska-Wienckowska A, Ciopinski M, Czubkowski P, Kaliciński P. Tissue Expression of Programmed Cell Death 1 Ligand1 (PD-L1) in Biopsies of Transplant Livers of Pediatric Patients as a Possible Marker of Acute Cellular Rejection. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4269. [PMID: 37445304 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preclinical models have demonstrated that PD-1 and its ligand programmed death ligand1 (PD-L1) play significant roles in both graft induction and the maintenance of immune tolerance. It has also been suggested that PD-L1 tissue expression may predict graft rejection; however, the available data are sparse and inconclusive. Some studies were conducted on patients with cancer; most of them do not concern the liver, especially within the context of the use of immunohistochemical tests. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess the relationship between tissue expression of PD-L1 in a unique material, i.e., in the liver biopsies of pediatric patients after transplantation with the presence of acute cellular rejection (ACR). MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study enrolled 55 biopsies from 55 patients who underwent protocol liver biopsies. The control group consisted of 19 biopsies from 13 patients diagnosed with acute cellular rejection (rejection activity index/RAI/ from 2 to 8). An immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for PD-L1 was performed in all of the liver specimens; its expression was analyzed in different regions of liver tissue (in inflammatory infiltrates and within the endothelium and hepatocytes). The following changes were re-evaluated in each specimen: features of any kind of rejection (acute cellular, antibody-mediated, chronic); the presence and severity of fibrosis (Ishak scale); and the presence of cholestasis and steatosis. Clinical parameters were also evaluated, including tests of liver function (AST, ALT, GGT, bilirubin). RESULTS The age of patients in the study group ranged from 2.37 to 18.9 years (median 13.87 years), with the time after transplantation being 1-17 years (median 8.36 years). The age of patients in the control group ranged from 1.48 to 17.51 years (median 7.93 years), with their biopsies being taken 0.62-14.39 years (median 1.33 years) after transplantation. We found a statistically significant relationship between PD-L1 expression on inflammatory infiltrates and ACR; however, there was no statistically significant relationship between PD-L1 endothelial expression and ACR. PD-L1 was not positive in the hepatocytes regardless of if it was the study or control group that was under observation. CONCLUSION PD-L1 appears to be a promising marker to predict graft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Szymanska
- Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, 04-736 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Markiewicz-Kijewska
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Organ's Transplantation, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, 04-736 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michal Pyzlak
- Warsaw Department of Pathology, The Institute of Mather and Child, 01-211 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Mateusz Ciopinski
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Organ's Transplantation, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, 04-736 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Czubkowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutrition Disorder and Pediatric, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, 04-736 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Kaliciński
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Organ's Transplantation, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, 04-736 Warsaw, Poland
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18
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Montano-Loza AJ, Rodríguez-Perálvarez ML, Pageaux GP, Sanchez-Fueyo A, Feng S. Liver transplantation immunology: Immunosuppression, rejection, and immunomodulation. J Hepatol 2023; 78:1199-1215. [PMID: 37208106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Outcomes after liver transplantation have continuously improved over the past decades, but long-term survival rates are still lower than in the general population. The liver has distinct immunological functions linked to its unique anatomical configuration and to its harbouring of a large number of cells with fundamental immunological roles. The transplanted liver can modulate the immunological system of the recipient to promote tolerance, thus offering the potential for less aggressive immunosuppression. The selection and adjustment of immunosuppressive drugs should be individualised to optimally control alloreactivity while mitigating toxicities. Routine laboratory tests are not accurate enough to make a confident diagnosis of allograft rejection. Although several promising biomarkers are being investigated, none of them is sufficiently validated for routine use; hence, liver biopsy remains necessary to guide clinical decisions. Recently, there has been an exponential increase in the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors due to the unquestionable oncological benefits they provide for many patients with advanced-stage tumours. It is expected that their use will also increase in liver transplant recipients and that this might affect the incidence of allograft rejection. Currently, the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in liver transplant recipients is limited and cases of severe allograft rejection have been reported. In this review, we discuss the clinical relevance of alloimmune disease, the role of minimisation/withdrawal of immunosuppression, and provide practical guidance for using checkpoint inhibitors in liver transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| | - Manuel L Rodríguez-Perálvarez
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Universidad de Córdoba, IMIBIC, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Madrid, Spain
| | - George-Philippe Pageaux
- Liver Transplantation Unit, Digestive Department, Saint Eloi University Hospital, University of Montpellier, 34295, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Alberto Sanchez-Fueyo
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London University and King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandy Feng
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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19
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Kuo FC, Chen CY, Lin NC, Liu C, Hsia CY, Loong CC. Optimizing the Safe Washout Period for Liver Transplantation Following Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors with Atezolizumab, Nivolumab, or Pembrolizumab. Transplant Proc 2023:S0041-1345(23)00232-4. [PMID: 37127513 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2023.03.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a downstaging therapy for liver transplantation (LT) has improved outcomes for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, this therapy carries a risk of post-transplant graft rejection. The washout (WO) period between the last ICI dose and LT seems critical in preventing postoperative rejection. This study aimed to optimize the WO period by balancing tumor burden suppression and rejection prevention using ICIs before LT. METHODS We reviewed published case reports or series from March 2020 to December 2022 regarding LT for HCC after downstaging or bridge therapy with ICIs and included 4 of our cases. Most patients received atezolizumab, nivolumab, or pembrolizumab; these ICIs shared a half-life of around 28 days. Therefore, we excluded cases without definite WO period data and those using non-atezolizumab/nivolumab/pembrolizumab ICIs and ultimately enrolled 22 patients for analysis. We compared their clinical outcomes and estimated the rejection-free survival for every 0.5 half-life interval. RESULTS Most study subjects received nivolumab (n = 25). Six patients had severe rejections (nivolumab group, n = 5) and needed rescue management. Of the 6 cases, 1 patient died after rejection, and 2 underwent re-transplantation. The median WO period in these 6 patients was 22 days (IQR: 9-35 days). In addition, we found that a 1.5 half-life (42 days) was the shortest safe WO period associated with significant rejection-free survival (P = .005). CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that 42 days was the safest WO period before LT for HCC after ICI with atezolizumab, nivolumab, or pembrolizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Cheng Kuo
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Chen
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Public Health, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Niang-Cheng Lin
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chinsu Liu
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yuan Hsia
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Chuan Loong
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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20
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Cui X, Yan C, Xu Y, Li D, Guo M, Sun L, Zhu Z. Allograft rejection following immune checkpoint inhibitors in solid organ transplant recipients: A safety analysis from a literature review and a pharmacovigilance system. Cancer Med 2023; 12:5181-5194. [PMID: 36504294 PMCID: PMC10028127 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to systematically characterize transplant rejection after immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) initiation in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs). METHODS Data were extracted from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database and case reports in the literature. Disproportionality analysis including information component and reported odds ratio (ROR) was performed to access potential risk signals. RESULTS A total of 168 patients with transplant rejection after ICIs usage were identified in the FAERS database, and 89 cases were identified in the literature review. ICIs were significantly associated with transplant rejection (ROR025 : 2.2). A strong risk signal was found for combination therapy with pembrolizumab and ipilimumab compared to monotherapy. CONCLUSION Immune checkpoint inhibitors were significantly associated with transplant rejection in SOTRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangli Cui
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Liver Transplantation Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cilin Yan
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Xu
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Guo
- Pharmacy Department of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Sun
- Liver Transplantation Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijun Zhu
- Liver Transplantation Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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21
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:1-120. [PMID: 37384024 PMCID: PMC10202234 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2022.11.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korean Liver Cancer Association (KLCA) and National Cancer Center (NCC) Korea
- Corresponding author: KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee (KPGRC) (Committee Chair: Joong-Won Park) Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, Korea Tel. +82-31-920-1605, Fax: +82-31-920-1520, E-mail:
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22
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Abboud K, Umoru G, Esmail A, Abudayyeh A, Murakami N, Al-Shamsi HO, Javle M, Saharia A, Connor AA, Kodali S, Ghobrial RM, Abdelrahim M. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Solid Tumors in the Adjuvant Setting: Current Progress, Future Directions, and Role in Transplant Oncology. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051433. [PMID: 36900226 PMCID: PMC10000896 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The rationale for administering immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the adjuvant setting is to eradicate micro-metastases and, ultimately, prolong survival. Thus far, clinical trials have demonstrated that 1-year adjuvant courses of ICIs reduce the risk of recurrence in melanoma, urothelial cancer, renal cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancers. Overall survival benefit has been shown in melanoma while survival data are still not mature in other malignancies. Emerging data also show the feasibility of utilizing ICIs in the peri-transplant setting for hepatobiliary malignancies. While ICIs are generally well-tolerated, the development of chronic immune-related adverse events, typically endocrinopathies or neurotoxicities, as well as delayed immune-related adverse events, warrants further scrutiny regarding the optimal duration of adjuvant therapy and requires a thorough risk-benefit determination. The advent of blood-based, dynamic biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can help detect minimal residual disease and identify the subset of patients who would likely benefit from adjuvant treatment. In addition, the characterization of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and ctDNA-adjusted blood tumor mutation burden (bTMB) has also shown promise in predicting response to immunotherapy. Until additional, prospective studies delineate the magnitude of overall survival benefit and validate the use of predictive biomarkers, a tailored, patient-centered approach to adjuvant ICIs that includes extensive patient counseling on potentially irreversible adverse effects should be routinely incorporated into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Abboud
- Department of Pharmacy, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Godsfavour Umoru
- Department of Pharmacy, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Abdullah Esmail
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: (A.E.); (M.A.)
| | - Ala Abudayyeh
- Section of Nephrology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Naoka Murakami
- Division of Renal Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Humaid O. Al-Shamsi
- Department of Oncology, Burjeel Cancer Institute, Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 92510, United Arab Emirates
| | - Milind Javle
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ashish Saharia
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation and Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ashton A. Connor
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation and Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sudha Kodali
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation and Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rafik M. Ghobrial
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation and Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Maen Abdelrahim
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cockrell Center of Advanced Therapeutics Phase I Program, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 14853, USA
- Correspondence: (A.E.); (M.A.)
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23
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Laschtowitz A, Roderburg C, Tacke F, Mohr R. Preoperative Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current State of the Art. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:181-191. [PMID: 36789252 PMCID: PMC9922501 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s347944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy that requires multidisciplinary evaluation to develop individualized and tailored treatment concepts. While liver resection and transplantation represent the mainstay of curative treatment in patients with early-stage HCC, disease recurrence remains an important burden. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become standard of care in the palliative setting, achieving promising response rates with overall good tolerability. Accordingly, ICIs are being evaluated in (neo)adjuvant concepts in order to improve survival. Nevertheless, neoadjuvant therapies are not recommended by current guidelines as they have not been proven to improve the outcome in large Phase III trials yet. Especially in the context of liver transplantation (LT), perioperative ICI usage is in need of a particularly critical risk-benefit assessment, as the immunotherapy may significantly increase the risk of rejection. In this review, we summarize available data on ICI-based perioperative treatment strategies in HCC. We discuss current drawbacks and challenges of this treatment concept and specifically highlight the risk of allograft rejection when ICI are given in patients (subsequently) considered for liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Laschtowitz
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Roderburg
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany
| | - Raphael Mohr
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany,Correspondence: Raphael Mohr, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany, Email
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24
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Xu X. State of the art and perspectives in liver transplantation. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:1-3. [PMID: 36528548 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xu
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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25
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Li J, Yang F, Li J, Huang ZY, Cheng Q, Zhang EL. Postoperative adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma with microvascular invasion. World J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 15:19-31. [PMID: 36741072 PMCID: PMC9896490 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i1.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal tumors in the world. Liver resection (LR) and liver transplantation (LT) are widely considered as radical treatments for early HCC. However, the recurrence rates after curative treatment are still high and overall survival is unsatisfactory. Microvascular invasion (MVI) is considered to be one of the important prognostic factors affecting postoperative recurrence and long-term survival. Unfortunately, whether HCC patients with MVI should receive postoperative adjuvant therapy remains unknown. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic effects of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy, tyrosine protein kinase inhibitor-based targeted therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with MVI after LR or LT, aiming to provide a reference for the best adjuvant treatment strategy for HCC patients with MVI after LT or LR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Li
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Regions, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Minzu University, Enshi 445000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jian Li
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Er-Lei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
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26
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Lominadze Z, Hill K, Shaik MR, Canakis JP, Bourmaf M, Adams-Mardi C, Abutaleb A, Mishra L, Shetty K. Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Setting of Liver Transplantation: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032358. [PMID: 36768686 PMCID: PMC9917203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The emerging field of immuno-oncology has brought exciting developments in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It has also raised urgent questions about the role of immunotherapy in the setting of liver transplantation, both before and after transplant. A growing body of evidence points to the safety and efficacy of immunotherapeutic agents as potential adjuncts for successful down-staging of advanced HCCs to allow successful transplant in carefully selected patients. For patients with recurrent HCC post-transplant, immunotherapy has a limited, yet growing role. In this review, we describe optimal regimens in the setting of liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zurabi Lominadze
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Kareen Hill
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Mohammed Rifat Shaik
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Justin P. Canakis
- Department of Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Mohammad Bourmaf
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Cyrus Adams-Mardi
- Department of Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Ameer Abutaleb
- Department of Surgery, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Lopa Mishra
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - Kirti Shetty
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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27
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Jiang J, Huang H, Chen R, Lin Y, Ling Q. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplantation, can we harness the power of immune checkpoint inhibitors? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1092401. [PMID: 36875077 PMCID: PMC9978931 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1092401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death globally and liver transplantation (LT) can serve as the best curative treatment option. However, HCC recurrence after LT remains the major obstacle to the long-term survival of recipients. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of many cancers and provided a new treatment strategy for post-LT HCC recurrence. Evidence has been accumulated with the real-world application of ICIs in patients with post-LT HCC recurrence. Notably, the use of these agents as immunity boosters in recipients treated with immunosuppressors is still controversial. In this review, we summarized the immunotherapy for post-LT HCC recurrence and conducted an efficacy and safety evaluation based on the current experience of ICIs for post-LT HCC recurrence. In addition, we further discussed the potential mechanism of ICIs and immunosuppressive agents in regulating the balance between immune immunosuppression and lasting anti-tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Jiang
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Huang
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruihan Chen
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yimou Lin
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Ling
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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28
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Kayali S, Pasta A, Plaz Torres MC, Jaffe A, Strazzabosco M, Marenco S, Giannini EG. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in malignancies after liver transplantation: A systematic review and pooled analysis. Liver Int 2023; 43:8-17. [PMID: 36102312 PMCID: PMC10087158 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Treatment of de novo malignancies and recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in liver transplant recipients (LT) is an attractive strategy that is infrequently pursued because of the lack of strong evidence regarding their safety and efficacy. In this systematic review with pooled analysis, we aimed to assess safety and efficacy of ICI therapy following LT. METHODS We performed a systematic search of case reports and series published until January 2022. We included 31 publications reporting a total of 52 patients treated with ICIs after LT and assessed in a pooled analysis the risk of graft rejection and the outcome of ICI therapy. RESULTS Acute graft rejection occurred in 15 patients (28.8%) and 7 patients (13.4% of the total cohort) died because of graft loss. Rejection was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) (17.2 months, confidence interval [CI] 12.1-22.2 vs. 3.5 months, CI 1.6-5.4, p < 0.001). Disease control rate was 44.2% (n = 23), and in these patients, OS was longer than in non-responders (26.4 months, CI 20.8-32.0 vs. 3.4 months, CI 2.1-4.7, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Observational, off-label experience suggests that treatment with ICI for advanced malignancies in LT recipients might not be discarded a priori. This notwithstanding, ICI treatment in these patients is associated with a substantial risk of graft rejection and mortality. Prospective studies are needed to provide adequate safety and efficacy figures of ICI treatment in this fragile population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Kayali
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Pasta
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Corina Plaz Torres
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ariel Jaffe
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Smilow Cancer Hospital and Liver Cancer Program, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Smilow Cancer Hospital and Liver Cancer Program, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Simona Marenco
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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29
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Jin X, Ma X, Zhao D, Yang L, Ma N. Immune microenvironment and therapeutic progress of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Transl Oncol 2022; 28:101603. [PMID: 36542991 PMCID: PMC9794975 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC is a highly lethal tumor, and orthotopic liver transplantation, as one of the radical treatment methods for HCC, has opened-up a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of primary liver cancer. However, tumor recurrence after liver transplantation is the main reason that affects the long-term survival of recipients. At present, the application of ICIs has brought dawn to patients with refractory HCC. However, because of the special immune tolerance state created by long-term oral immunosuppressants in patients with HCC after liver transplantation, the current focus is how to regulate the immune balance of such patients and simultaneously maximize the anti-tumor effect. This article reviews the relationship between liver cancer and immunity, immune tolerance of liver transplantation, immune microenvironment after liver transplantation for HCC, and the application of immunotherapy in the recurrence of liver transplantation for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Division of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation Center, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, No.29 Bulan Road, Longgang District, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaoting Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Dong Zhao
- Division of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation Center, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, No.29 Bulan Road, Longgang District, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China,Corresponding authors.
| | - Nan Ma
- Division of Liver Surgery and Organ Transplantation Center, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, No.29 Bulan Road, Longgang District, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong Province, China,Corresponding authors.
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30
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Zhang P, Zhu G, Li L, Lai G, Wang Z, Sun C, Xia W, Wu L. Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for malignant tumors in liver transplantation recipients: A systematic review of the literature. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2022; 36:100712. [PMID: 35870411 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2022.100712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment for de novo or recurrent tumors of liver transplantation (LT) recipients is challenging and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) is recently well developed and could be a potentially effective option for this population. There remains limited evidence on the safety and efficacy of ICI therapy in LT recipients. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed database through April 1, 2022, to identify publications reporting ICI treatment for malignant tumors in LT recipients. We summarized the allograft rejection, mortality, and tumor response of ICI treatment. RESULTS 24 articles with 41 LT recipients were identified. The age of LT recipients ranged from 14 to 78, 76.2% were male, 56.1% had recurrent HCC, and 87.8% received anti-PD-1 therapy. Allograft rejection occurred in 31.7% of patients, death was reported in 46.3% and 6 cases died secondary to allograft rejection. Progressive disease rate of this population was 48.8% and 10 patients responded to immunotherapy. Half of recipients with positive PD-L1 staining (4/8) experienced allograft rejection. CONCLUSIONS ICI therapy has potential therapeutic value on malignant tumors for LT recipients, accompanied by a high rate of allograft rejection and mortality. PD-L1 expression, type of ICI, and immunosuppression agent should be taken into consideration before initiation of immunotherapy. Further studies are needed to optimize this anticancer treatment approach in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinzhe Zhang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Guanghao Zhu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leping Li
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Guanzhi Lai
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Zekang Wang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengjun Sun
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wuzheng Xia
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linwei Wu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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31
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Korean J Radiol 2022; 23:1126-1240. [PMID: 36447411 PMCID: PMC9747269 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2022.0822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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32
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Ouranos K, Chatziioannou A, Goulis I, Sinakos E. Role of immunotherapy in downsizing hepatocellular carcinoma prior to liver transplantation. World J Transplant 2022; 12:331-346. [PMID: 36437845 PMCID: PMC9693898 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v12.i11.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive primary liver neoplasm that, according to tumor stage, can be treated with resection, transplantation, locoregional treatment options, or systemic therapy. Although interventions only in early-stage disease can offer complete tumor regression, systemic therapy in advanced disease can significantly prolong overall survival, according to published clinical trials. The emergence of immunotherapy in the field of cancer therapy has had a positive impact on patients with HCC, resulting in atezolizumab–bevacizumab currently being the first-line option for treatment of advanced HCC. In light of this, application of immunotherapy in the preoperative process could increase the number of patients fulfilling the criteria for liver transplantation (LT). Implementation of this approach is faced with challenges regarding the safety of immunotherapy and the possibly increased risk of rejection in the perioperative period. Case reports and clinical trials assessing the safety profile and effectiveness of neoadjuvant immunotherapy, highlight important aspects regarding this newly evolving approach to HCC management. More studies need to be conducted in order to reach a consensus regarding the optimal way to administer immunotherapy prior to LT. In this review, we summarize the role, safety profile and future considerations regarding the use of neoadjuvant immunotherapy prior to LT in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Ouranos
- 4th Medical Department, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Anthi Chatziioannou
- 4th Medical Department, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Ioannis Goulis
- 4th Medical Department, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Sinakos
- 4th Medical Department, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
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33
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Immune checkpoint blockade for organ-transplant recipients with cancer: A review. Eur J Cancer 2022; 175:326-335. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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34
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Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Alpha Fetoprotein, and Liver Allocation for Transplantation: Past, Present and Future. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:7537-7551. [PMID: 36290870 PMCID: PMC9600271 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29100593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading indications for liver transplantation and has been the treatment of choice due to the oncologic benefit for patients with advanced chronic liver disease (AdvCLD) and small tumors for the last 25 years. For HCC patients undergoing liver transplantation, alpha fetoprotein (AFP) has increasingly been applied as an independent predictor for overall survival, disease free recurrence, and waitlist drop out. In addition to static AFP, newer studies evaluating the AFP dynamic response to downstaging therapy show enhanced prognostication compared to static AFP alone. While AFP has been utilized to select HCC patients for transplant, despite years of allocation policy changes, the US allocation system continues to take a uniform approach to HCC patients, without discriminating between those with favorable or unfavorable tumor biology. We aim to review the history of liver allocation for HCC in the US, the utility of AFP in liver transplantation, the implications of weaving AFP as a biomarker into policy. Based on this review, we encourage the US transplant community to revisit its HCC organ allocation model, to incorporate more precise oncologic principles for patient selection, and to adopt AFP dynamics to better stratify waitlist dropout risk.
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35
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:583-705. [PMID: 36263666 PMCID: PMC9597235 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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36
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Sposito C, Citterio D, Virdis M, Battiston C, Droz Dit Busset M, Flores M, Mazzaferro V. Therapeutic strategies for post-transplant recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:4929-4942. [PMID: 36160651 PMCID: PMC9494935 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i34.4929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite stringent selection criteria, hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) still occurs in up to 20% of cases, mostly within the first 2–3 years. No adjuvant treatments to prevent such an occurrence have been developed so far. However, a balanced use of immunosuppression with minimal dose of calcineurin inhibitors and possible addition of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors is strongly advisable. Moreover, several pre- and post-transplant predictors of recurrence have been identified and may help determine the frequency and duration of post-transplant follow-up. When recurrence occurs, the outcomes are poor with a median survival of 12 mo according to most retrospective studies. The factor that most impacts survival after recurrence is timing (within 1–2 years from LT according to different authors). Several therapeutic options may be chosen in case of recurrence, according to timing and disease presentation. Surgical treatment seems to provide a survival benefit, especially in case of late recurrence, while the benefit of locoregional treatments has been suggested only in small retrospective studies. When systemic treatment is indicated, sorafenib has been proved safe and effective, while only few data are available for lenvatinib and regorafenib in second line. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors is controversial in this setting, given the safety warnings for the risk of acute rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Sposito
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan 20100, Italy
| | - Davide Citterio
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Matteo Virdis
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Carlo Battiston
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Michele Droz Dit Busset
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Maria Flores
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mazzaferro
- HPB Surgery, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan 20100, Italy
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37
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Jin X, Zhang K, Fang T, Zeng X, Yan X, Tang J, Liang Z, Xie L, Zhao D. Low-dose PD-1 inhibitor combined with lenvatinib for preemptive treatment of recurrence after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: Case report and literature review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:951303. [PMID: 36119543 PMCID: PMC9478730 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.951303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), as one of the curative methods for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has brought hope to patients with HCC. However, treatment options for HCC recurrence and metastasis after liver transplantation are limited. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitor, have been successfully used in advanced or metastatic HCC, but the data on the safety of PD-1 inhibitor after liver transplantation is limited. In this article, we report a 47-year-old patient with acute-on-chronic liver failure and multiple HCC who was successfully treated with liver transplantation. On the 45th day after OLT, the patient’s alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP (AFP-L3) were increased, and imaging examination showed no residual tumor. The patient had high risk factors for tumor recurrence before operation, so the possibility of tumor recurrence was considered. When the tumor markers showed an upward trend, we immediately treated the patient with lenvatinib 8 mg, after half a month, the AFP and AFP-L3 continued to increase compared with before. Then we used low-dose nivolumab 40mg, the patient’s AFP and AFP-L3 gradually decreased. One month later, a second low-dose nivolumab 40mg was given, and the patient’s tumor markers gradually decreased to normal. No acute rejection and other complications occurred during the treatment. So far, we have followed up this patient for 2 years, and no tumor recurrence was observed. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case using a low dose of nivolumab in combination with lenvatinib to prevent recurrence of HCC after liver transplantation.
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38
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Chen J, Zhang D, Yuan Y. Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy in conversion treatment of locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2022:10.1007/s10238-022-00873-6. [PMID: 36018466 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00873-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Curative surgery and locoregional therapy are radical therapies for patients with HCC. But more than 80% of HCC patients cannot be fitful for radical therapies because of local progression or distant metastasis at initial diagnosis. Among patients with unresectable locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), some patients can be converted to be technically resectable by conversion treatment and salvage surgery. For unresectable locally advanced hepatocellular, conversion treatment prior to salvage surgery with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and other locoregional therapies improve outcomes. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy which show high antineoplastic activity in HCC patients by preclinical and clinical researches can also be a good choice for conversion therapy. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor combined with locoregional therapy plus antiangiogenic agents or not is most potential conversion therapy comparing to PD-1 inhibitor monotherapy and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor combined with antiangiogenic agents or CTLA-4 inhibitor. As more clinical evidence reported, PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy would be widely used in conversion treatment of locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ding Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China. .,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China.
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39
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Hanania HL, Lewis DJ. Systematic Review of Programmed Cell Death-1 Inhibitor Therapy for Advanced-Stage Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Solid-organ Transplant Recipients. J DERMATOL TREAT 2022; 33:3119-3126. [PMID: 36018250 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2022.2118516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors represent an effective treatment option for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). However, solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients with cSCC have traditionally been excluded from clinical trials. OBJECTIVE To assess the safety and efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors for stage III-IV cSCC in SOT recipients. MATERIALS & METHODS A systematic review was performed using the PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases. RESULTS We identified 21 articles describing 33 SOT recipients (26 kidney, four liver, two lung, and one heart) with stage III-IV cSCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors. Eleven patients (33.3%) experienced allograft rejection. Of the 25 cases with iRECIST scores, twelve patients (48.0%) had a complete response (CR), eight (32.0%) showed a partial response (PR), three (12.0%) progressive disease, and two (8.0%) stable disease (SD). Including patients without available iRECIST scores, 21 patients (63.6%) showed tumor response. Eleven patients died, with six (50.0%) due to tumor progression and one (11.1%) due to allograft rejection after foregoing dialysis. CONCLUSION PD-1 inhibitors demonstrate efficacy for advanced cSCC and confer a risk of allograft rejection in SOT recipients, requiring careful assessment of risks and benefits. If anti-PD-1 therapy is pursued, use of mTOR inhibitors, prophylactic steroids, and donor-derived cell-free DNA monitoring may mitigate the risk of rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L Hanania
- Baylor College of Medicine, School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Daniel J Lewis
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Dermatology, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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40
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Nishio T, Ito T, Hata K, Taura K, Hatano E. Current status of liver transplantation for non-B non-C liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Ann Gastroenterol Surg 2022; 7:42-52. [PMID: 36643372 PMCID: PMC9831911 DOI: 10.1002/ags3.12612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, non-B non-C chronic liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), have markedly increased worldwide. Liver transplantation (LT) is an effective curative therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as decompensated liver cirrhosis. In Japan, where the source of liver grafts is strongly dependent on living donors, efforts have been made to unify the indications for eligibility of HCC patients for LT, leading to the development of 5-5-500 criteria. Along with the expansion of eligibility for LT, the current changing trends in underlying liver diseases of LT recipients, which are related to the rising tide of non-B non-C cirrhosis and HCC, are highlighting the importance of peri-transplant management of patients with various comorbidities. The post-LT prognosis of patients with ALD is significantly affected by de novo malignancies and metabolic syndrome-related complications as well as posttransplant alcohol relapse. NAFLD/NASH patients often suffer from obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and other metabolic syndrome-related disorders, and nonneoplastic factors such as cardiovascular events and recurrence of NAFLD/NASH have a significant impact on post-LT outcomes. Patient management in the peri-transplant period as well as risk assessment for LT are key to improving post-LT outcomes in the era of a growing number of cases of LT for non-B non-C liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Nishio
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Takashi Ito
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Koichiro Hata
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Kojiro Taura
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Etsuro Hatano
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
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41
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Immune checkpoint inhibitors in kidney transplant recipients: a multicentre, single-arm, phase 1 study. Lancet Oncol 2022; 23:1078-1086. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(22)00368-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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42
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Luo X, Du G, Chen B, Yan G, Zhu L, Cui P, Dai H, Qi Z, Lan T. Novel immunosuppressive effect of FK506 by upregulation of PD-L1 via FKBP51 in heart transplantation. Scand J Immunol 2022; 96:e13203. [PMID: 35801698 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13203] [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: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The calcineurin inhibitor-FK506-is a first-line immunosuppressant that regulates T-cell secretion of IL-2 and other cytokines. However, the mechanism of its protective effect on target cells and its role on tumor recurrence and interaction with anti-tumor immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as PD-L1 blocking, are still unclear. Here, in a murine heart transplantation model, we observed the upregulation of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression by FK506 in both dendritic cells (DCs) and allografts. Blocking PD-L1 during FK506 treatment increased IFN-γ and TNF-α expression, enhanced CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell proliferation, and suppressed Treg differentiation. Moreover, PD-L1 decreased T-cell infiltration and induced T cell apoptosis in both the spleen and graft. PD-L1 was not only required in FK506-mediated immunosuppression but also upregulated by FK506. Treatment with SAFit2, a FKBP51 selective inhibitor, reduced the expression of PD-L1 on DCs and the grafts and interfered with the immunosuppressive effect of FK506, suggesting that the mechanism depends on FK506-binding protein (FKBP) 51 expression. Overall, our results add new insights into the role of FK506, not only on T-cell cytokine secretion but also on co-inhibitory molecular regulation and target cell immune privilege.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuewei Luo
- Medical College of Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Guicheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Bingye Chen
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Guoliang Yan
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Luyao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Pengcheng Cui
- Medical College of Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,Clinical Research Center for Organ Transplantation in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Helong Dai
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Organ Transplantation in Hunan Province, Changsha, China.,Clinical Immunology Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhongquan Qi
- Medical College of Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Tianshu Lan
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Respiratory diseases,Xiamen medical college
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43
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Yau T, Tai D, Chan SL, Huang YH, Choo SP, Hsu C, Cheung TT, Lin SM, Yong WP, Lee J, Leung T, Shum T, Yeung CS, Tai AYP, Law ALY, Cheng AL, Chen LT. Systemic Treatment of Advanced Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma after First-Line Therapy: Expert Recommendations from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan. Liver Cancer 2022; 11:426-439. [PMID: 36158587 PMCID: PMC9485972 DOI: 10.1159/000525582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asia has a high burden of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to the high rates of chronic hepatitis B infection and accounts for 70% of HCC cases globally. In the past 20 years, the systemic treatment landscape of advanced HCC has evolved substantially - from tyrosine kinase inhibitors to immune-oncology agents plus anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents. The appropriate sequence of therapies has become critical in optimizing patient outcomes given the increase in systemic therapeutic options. This article evaluates the evidence and provides expert recommendations for the use of systemic therapies after first-line treatment in patients with advanced HCC. SUMMARY Based on three virtual meetings held in early 2021, a team of 17 experts comprising oncologists, a hepatologist, and a hepatobiliary surgeon from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan reviewed available data about systemic treatments for HCC after first line and formulated 28 statements. These statements aimed to provide expert guidance on selecting first and subsequent lines of therapies as well as recommending therapies in special circumstances, such as poor liver function, posttransplantation, recent gastrointestinal bleeding, or autoimmune diseases. Data supporting the statements were drawn from clinical trials and real-world studies. The 28 statements were then evaluated anonymously using a 5-point Likert scale, and 24 reached consensus, predefined as achieving 75% agreement. Statements generated covered the selection of first-line systemic therapy, considerations and goals of second-line systemic therapies, treatment selection following first-line therapy, and treatment recommendations following first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune-oncology monotherapy, or immune-oncology combination therapy. The authors also shared expert opinion on the use of second-line systemic therapy in patients with liver dysfunction, liver transplantation, and recent gastrointestinal or autoimmune disease. KEY MESSAGES These expert statements summarize the latest data and expert opinion on selecting systemic treatment following first-line therapy in patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Yau
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China,*Thomas Yau,
| | - David Tai
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Stephen Lam Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Hsiang Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chiun Hsu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tan To Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shi-Ming Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkuo, Taiwan
| | - Wei Peng Yong
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joycelyn Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Thomas Leung
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tracy Shum
- Department of Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Anna Yin-Ping Tai
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Ann-Lii Cheng
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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44
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Kawashima S, Joachim K, Abdelrahim M, Abudayyeh A, Jhaveri KD, Murakami N. Immune checkpoint inhibitors for solid organ transplant recipients: clinical updates. KOREAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION 2022; 36:82-98. [PMID: 35919193 PMCID: PMC9296977 DOI: 10.4285/kjt.22.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplant care continues to advance with increasing clinical experience and improvements in immunosuppressive therapy. As the population ages and long-term survival improves, transplant patient care has become more complex due to comorbidities, frailty, and the increased prevalence of cancer posttransplantation. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a standard treatment option for many cancers in non-transplant patients, but the use of ICIs in transplant patients is challenging due to the possibility of disrupting immune tolerance. However, over the past few years, ICIs have gradually started to be used in transplant patients as well. In this study, we review the current use of ICIs after all solid organ transplantation procedures (kidney, liver, heart, and lung). Increasing data suggest that the type and number of immunosuppressants may affect the risk of rejection after immunotherapy. Immunotherapy for cancer in transplant patients may be a feasible option for selected patients; however, prospective trials in specific organ transplant recipients are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Kawashima
- Transplantation Research Center, Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kole Joachim
- Transplantation Research Center, Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maen Abdelrahim
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ala Abudayyeh
- Section of Nephrology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kenar D. Jhaveri
- Division of Kidney Diseases and Hypertension, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ Northwell, Great Neck, NY, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Naoka Murakami
- Transplantation Research Center, Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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45
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Suzuki R, Goto R, Kawamura N, Watanabe M, Ganchiku Y, Hatanaka KC, Hatanaka Y, Kamiyama T, Shimamura T, Taketomi A. Efficient multiple treatments including molecular targeting agents in a case of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma, post-living donor liver transplantation. Clin J Gastroenterol 2022; 15:755-764. [DOI: 10.1007/s12328-022-01643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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46
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Xie M, Dang ZP, Sun XG, Zhang B, Zhang Q, Tian QJ, Cai JZ, Rao W. An analysis report on the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors after liver transplantation. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223221099334. [PMID: 35620187 PMCID: PMC9127875 DOI: 10.1177/20406223221099334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to now, a variety of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been proved to have good therapeutic effects in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the effects of their applications in liver transplant (LT) recipients are still unclear. In this analysis report, the clinical applications and therapeutic effects of ICIs on LT recipients with hepatic tumor recurrence or de novo carcinoma based on eight databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and CQVIP, were investigated. And the prior treatment, disease response, adverse reactions, and prognosis of patients with malignant tumors after LT and receiving ICI treatments were analyzed. After screening, a total of 28 articles with 47 recipients on the application of ICIs after LT were included. In these patients, their median age was 57 (14–71) years and the main type of tumor after LT was HCC (59.6%). The overall remission rate following ICI treatment was 29.8% (14/47) and the disease progression rate was 68.1% (32/47). Among all these patients, 31.9% (15/47) of patients had immune rejection; the median survival time was 6.5 (0.3–48) months, and the fatality rate was 61.7% (29/47). Considering that the therapeutic effect of ICIs in LT recipients with HCC recurrence or de novo carcinoma is not ideal, ICI treatment should be carefully considered for LT patients, and further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi-ping Dang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xue-guo Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qun Zhang
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qiu-ju Tian
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jin-zhen Cai
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Rao
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Disease Center, Department of Organ Transplantation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 59 Hai’er Road, Laoshan District, Qingdao City 266600, Shandong Province, China
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47
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Katariya NN, Lizaola-Mayo BC, Chascsa DM, Giorgakis E, Aqel BA, Moss AA, Uson Junior PLS, Borad MJ, Mathur AK. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as Therapy to Down-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prior to Liver Transplantation. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092056. [PMID: 35565184 PMCID: PMC9101696 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy and third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. For early- and intermediate-stage disease, liver-directed therapies for locoregional control, or down-staging prior to definitive surgical therapy with hepatic resection or liver transplantation, have been studied broadly, and are the mainstays of current treatment guidelines. As HCC incidence has continued to grow, and with more patients presenting with advanced disease, our current treatment modalities do not suffice, and better therapies are needed to improve disease-specific and overall survival. Until recently, sorafenib was the only systemic therapy utilized, and was associated with dismal results. The advent of immuno-oncology has been of significant interest, and has changed the paradigm of therapy for HCC. Lately, combination regimens including atezolizumab plus bevacizumab; durvalumab plus tremelimumab; and pembrolizumab plus Lenvatinib have shown impressive responses of between 25-35%; this is much higher than responses observed with single agents. Complete responses with checkpoint inhibitor therapy have been observed in advanced-stage HCC patients. These dramatic results have naturally led to several questions. Can or should checkpoint inhibitors, or other immunotherapy combinations, be used routinely before resection or transplant? Is there a synergistic effect of immunotherapy with locoregional therapy, and will pre-treatment increase disease-free survival after surgical intervention? Is it immunologically safe to use these therapies prior to transplantation? Much is still to be learned in terms of the dosing, timing, and overall utility of the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for pre-transplant care and down-staging. More studies will be needed to understand the management of adverse events while maximizing the therapeutic window of these agents. In this review, we look at the current data on therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors in advanced HCC, with a focus on pre-transplant treatment prior to liver transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin N. Katariya
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (A.A.M.); (A.K.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Blanca C. Lizaola-Mayo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Transplant Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (B.C.L.-M.); (D.M.C.); (B.A.A.)
| | - David M. Chascsa
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Transplant Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (B.C.L.-M.); (D.M.C.); (B.A.A.)
| | - Emmanouil Giorgakis
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA;
| | - Bashar A. Aqel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Transplant Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (B.C.L.-M.); (D.M.C.); (B.A.A.)
| | - Adyr A. Moss
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (A.A.M.); (A.K.M.)
| | | | - Mitesh J. Borad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA;
| | - Amit K. Mathur
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Alix School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; (A.A.M.); (A.K.M.)
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48
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Portuguese AJ, Tykodi SS, Blosser CD, Gooley TA, Thompson JA, Hall ET. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Use in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2022; 20:406-416.e11. [PMID: 35390767 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2022.7009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Chronic immunosuppression in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) leads to an increased risk of a wide variety of cancers. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy is indicated for many of these; however, the risks and benefits of ICI use in the SOTR population have not been well characterized. We performed a systematic literature review identifying 119 reported cases of ICI use among SOTRs. Treatments used included PD-1 inhibition (75.6%), CTLA-4 inhibition (12.6%), PD-L1 inhibition (1.7%), and combination and/or sequential ICI therapy (10.1%). The most common cancers included cutaneous melanoma (35.3%), hepatocellular carcinoma (22.7%), and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (18.5%). The overall objective response rate (ORR) was 34.5%, with a median duration of response of 8.0 months. Ongoing response was seen in 21.0%. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma had significantly better ORR compared with other cancer types (68.2% vs 26.8%; odds ratio [OR], 5.85; P =.0006). Factors associated with improved ORR included increasing time from transplant to ICI (OR, 1.09; P =.008) and preemptive reduction in intensity of the graft maintenance immunosuppressive regimen (50.0% vs 18.5%; OR, 4.40; P =.0088). Rejection occurred in 41.2%, graft failure in 23.5%, and immune-related adverse events in 18.5%. Factors significantly associated with allograft rejection included allograft PD-L1 positivity (100% vs 0%; P<.0001) and absence of tacrolimus in the immunosuppressive regimen (48.7% vs 25.6%; OR, 0.36; P =.019). The most common cause of death was progressive malignancy (64.0%), followed by graft failure (24.0%). Our analysis provides current benchmark data to help inform management of SOTRs with advanced cancers that are reflected by our patient cohort. Biomarker development, more robust datasets, and prospective study of concomitant immunosuppression management may help refine decision-making in this complex scenario in the future. Close coordination of care between the medical oncologist and transplant specialist is encouraged to help optimize treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott S Tykodi
- University of Washington.,Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and
| | | | | | - John A Thompson
- University of Washington.,Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and
| | - Evan T Hall
- University of Washington.,Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and
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49
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Hai Nam N, Taura K, Koyama Y, Nishio T, Yamamoto G, Uemoto Y, Kimura Y, Xuefeng L, Nakamura D, Yoshino K, Ogawa E, Okamoto T, Yoshizawa A, Seo S, Iwaisako K, Yoh T, Hata K, Masui T, Okajima H, Haga H, Uemoto S, Hatano E. Increased Expressions of Programmed Death Ligand 1 and Galectin 9 in Transplant Recipients Who Achieved Tolerance After Immunosuppression Withdrawal. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:647-658. [PMID: 34655506 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Programmed death 1 (PD1)/its ligand PD-L1 concomitant with T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3)/its ligand galectin 9 (Gal-9) and the forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) might be involved in tolerance after liver transplantation (LT). Liver biopsies from 38 tolerant, 19 nontolerant (including 16 samples that triggered reintroduction of immunosuppression [IS] and 19 samples after IS reintroduction), and 38 control LT patients were studied. The expressions of PD1, PD-L1, Gal-9, and FOXP3 were determined by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. The success period of IS withdrawal was calculated using Kaplan-Meier curve analysis. Tolerant and control patients exhibited higher PD-L1, Gal-9, and FOXP3 levels than nontolerant patients at the moment of triggering IS reintroduction. High expressions of PD-L1 and Gal-9 were associated with prolonged success of tolerance (83.3% versus 36.7% [P < 0.01] and 73.1% versus 42.9% [P = 0.03]). A strong correlation between PD-L1 and Gal-9 expression levels was detected (Spearman r = 0.73; P ≤ 0.001), and IF demonstrated colocalization of PD-L1 and Gal-9 in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that increased expressions of PD-L1 and Gal-9 were associated with sustained tolerance after IS withdrawal in pediatric liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Hai Nam
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kojiro Taura
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukinori Koyama
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nishio
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Gen Yamamoto
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Uemoto
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kimura
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Li Xuefeng
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Daichi Nakamura
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenji Yoshino
- Department of Surgery, Nagahama City Hospital, Nagahama, Japan
| | - Eri Ogawa
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Okamoto
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Satoru Seo
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Iwaisako
- Department of Medical Life Systems, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Yoh
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichiro Hata
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Masui
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideaki Okajima
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kanazawa Medical University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hironori Haga
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Etsuro Hatano
- Division of Hepato Biliary Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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50
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Abdelrahim M, Esmail A, Saharia A, Abudayyeh A, Abdel-Wahab N, Diab A, Murakami N, Kaseb AO, Chang JC, Gaber AO, Ghobrial RM. Utilization of Immunotherapy for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Peri-Transplant Setting: Transplant Oncology View. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071760. [PMID: 35406533 PMCID: PMC8997123 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths and accounts for over eighty percent of primary liver cancers worldwide. Regarding the Milan Criteria, only a small portion of HCC patients are eligible for liver transplantation due to advanced-stage disease and large tumor size preventing/delaying organ allocation. Recently, the use of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-1 and PD-L1) checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of cancers have evolved rapidly and these therapies have been approved for the treatment of HCC, however, the main concerns about organ rejection in liver transplant patients who will be treated with ICPIs are still the same in both pre-and post-transplant setting. To alleviate those concerns, more global collaborations to explore the safety and efficacy of ICPIs in both the pre-and post-organ transplantation settings are required. The decision to administer ICPI treatment in liver transplant patients should be made on a case-by-case basis according to the goal of care and the availability and efficacy of other treatment options. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths and accounts for over eighty percent of primary liver cancers worldwide. Surgical resection and radiofrequency ablation in small tumors are included in the treatment options for HCC patients with good liver function profiles. According to the Milan Criteria, only a small portion of HCC patients are eligible for liver transplantation due to advanced-stage disease and large tumor size preventing/delaying organ allocation. Recently, the use of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-1 and PD-L1) checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of cancers have evolved rapidly and these therapies have been approved for the treatment of HCC. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have resulted in good clinical outcomes in pre-and post-transplant HCC patients, although, some reports showed that certain recipients may face rejection and graft loss. In this review, we aim to illustrate and summarize the utilization of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies in pre-and post-liver transplants for HCC patients and discuss the assessment of immune checkpoint inhibitor regulators that might determine liver transplant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maen Abdelrahim
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Cockrell Center of Advanced Therapeutics Phase I Program, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.S.); (J.C.C.); (A.O.G.); (R.M.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Abdullah Esmail
- Section of GI Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ashish Saharia
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.S.); (J.C.C.); (A.O.G.); (R.M.G.)
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation, Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Hoston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ala Abudayyeh
- Section of Nephrology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Noha Abdel-Wahab
- Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of General Internal Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Adi Diab
- Section of Melanoma Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Naoka Murakami
- Division of Renal Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Ahmed O. Kaseb
- Section of GI Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Jenny C. Chang
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.S.); (J.C.C.); (A.O.G.); (R.M.G.)
- Section of Breast Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ahmed Osama Gaber
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.S.); (J.C.C.); (A.O.G.); (R.M.G.)
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation, Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Hoston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rafik Mark Ghobrial
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.S.); (J.C.C.); (A.O.G.); (R.M.G.)
- JC Walter Jr Center for Transplantation, Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Hoston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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