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Wen YF, Huang WJ, Chen XL, Cai HT, Zhang YB, Song XL, Xie CB, Peng HH, Yu HW, Chen CC, Wei LQ, Zhou TC, Cai S, Wang F, Lin XD. Predictive value of CXCL1 +_FAP + phenotype in CAFs for distant metastasis and its correlation with PD-L1 expression in locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients. Oral Oncol 2024; 157:106963. [PMID: 39032343 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2024.106963] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a lack of effective biomarkers for predicting the distant metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). We aimed to explore the expression of FAP+Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) derived CXCL1 in NPC and its predictive values for distant metastasis and correlation with PD-L1 expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 345 patients with locoregionally advanced NPC were retrospectively enrolled (the training cohort: the validation cohort = 160:185). Co-expression of CXCL1 and FAP and the expression of PD-L1 were detected by multi-immunofluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The primary end-point was distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the survival. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess prognostic risk factors. RESULTS A novel CXCL1+_FAP+ phenotype in CAFs was identified in NPC and then used to divide patients into low and high risk groups. Both in the training cohort and validation cohort, patients in the high risk group had poorer DMFS, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and locoregional relapse-free survival (LRFS) than patients in the low risk group. Multivariate analysis revealed CXCL1+_FAP+ phenotype was an independent prognostic factor for DMFS, OS, PFS and LRFS. Further results showed patients in the high risk group had higher PD-L1 expression than those in the low risk group. CONCLUSION Our study showed CXCL1+_FAP+ phenotype in CAFs could effectively classified locoregionally advanced NPC patients into different risk groups for distant metastasis and might be a potential biomarker for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Feng Wen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Wen-Jin Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Xiao-Long Chen
- Department of Spinal and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation, Guangdong Province Work Injury Rehabilitation Hospital, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Hui-Tang Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Yi-Bin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Xian-Lu Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Chang-Bin Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Hai-Hua Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Hong-Wei Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Cheng-Cong Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Li-Qiu Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Tong-Chong Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Shuang Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
| | - Xiao-Dan Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangzhou Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Province, China.
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Eskandari-Malayeri F, Rezeai M, Narimani T, Esmaeil N, Azizi M. Investigating the effect of Fusobacterium nucleatum on the aggressive behavior of cancer-associated fibroblasts in colorectal cancer. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:292. [PMID: 39030445 PMCID: PMC11264641 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01156-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Fusobacterium nucleatum, (F. nucleatum) as a known factor in inducing oncogenic, invasive, and inflammatory responses, can lead to an increase in the incidence and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are also one of the key components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which lead to resistance to treatment, metastasis, and disease recurrence with their markers, secretions, and functions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of F. nucleatum on the invasive phenotype and function of fibroblast cells isolated from normal and cancerous colorectal tissue. F. nucleatum bacteria were isolated from deep periodontal pockets and confirmed by various tests. CAF cells from tumor tissue and normal fibroblasts (NF) from a distance of 10 cm of tumor tissue were isolated from 5 patients by the explant method and were exposed to secretions and ghosts of F. nucleatum. The expression level of two markers, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and the amount of production of two cytokines TGF-β and IL-6 from fibroblast cells were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA test, respectively before and after exposure to different bacterial components. The expression of the FAP marker was significantly higher in CAF cells compared to NF cells (P < 0.05). Also, the expression of IL-6 in CAF cells was higher than that of NF cells. In investigating the effect of bacterial components on the function of fibroblastic cells, after comparing the amount of IL-6 produced between the normal tissue of each patient and his tumoral tissue under 4 treated conditions, it was found that the amount of IL-6 production from the CAF cells of patients in the control group, treated with heat-killed ghosts and treated with paraformaldehyde-fixed ghosts had a significant increase compared to NF cells (P < 0.05). Due to the significant increase in FAP marker expression in fibroblast cells of tumor tissue compared to normal tissue, it seems that FAP can be used as a very good therapeutic marker, especially in patients with high levels of CAF cells. Various components of F. nucleatum could affect fibroblast cells differentially and at least part of the effect of this bacterium in the TME is mediated by CAF cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marzieh Rezeai
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Tahmineh Narimani
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Esmaeil
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Azizi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Souza IDF, Vieira JPJ, Bonifácio ED, Avelar Freitas BA, González Torres LA. The Microenvironment of Solid Tumors: Components and current challenges of Tumor-on-a-Chip models. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2024. [PMID: 39007523 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2024.0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumors represent the most common type of cancer in humans and are classified into sarcomas, lymphomas, and carcinomas based on the originating cells. Among these, carcinomas, which arise from epithelial and glandular cells lining the body's tissues, are the most prevalent. Around the world, a significant increase in the incidence of solid tumors is observed during recent years. In this context, efforts to discover more effective cancer treatments have led to a deeper understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its components. Currently, the interactions between cancer cells and elements of the tumor microenvironment are being intensely investigated. Remarkable progress in research is noted, largely due to the development of advanced in vitro models, such as Tumor-on-a-Chip models that assist in understanding and ultimately discovering new effective treatments for a specific type of cancer. The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the tumor microenvironment and cancer cell components, along with the advances on tumor-on-a-chip models designed to mimic tumors, offering a perspective on the current state-of-the-art. Recent studies using this kind of microdevices that reproduce the tumor microenvironment have allowed a better understanding of the cancer and its treatments. Nevertheless, current applications of this technology present some limitations that must be overcome in order to achieve a broad application by researchers looking for a deeper knowledge of cancer and new strategies to improve current therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilva de Fátima Souza
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of Science and Technology, Rua da Glória, 187, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 39100-000
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of science and Technology, Rua da Glória, 187, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 39100-000;
| | - João Paulo Jesus Vieira
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of Science and Technology, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil;
| | - Elton Diêgo Bonifácio
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of Science and Technology, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil;
| | - Bethânia Alves Avelar Freitas
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of Science and Technology, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil;
| | - Libardo Andrés González Torres
- Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Institute of Science and Technology, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil;
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Kessler L, Schwaning F, Metzenmacher M, Pabst K, Siveke J, Trajkovic-Arsic M, Schaarschmidt B, Wiesweg M, Aigner C, Plönes T, Darwiche K, Bölükbas S, Stuschke M, Umutlu L, Nader M, Theegarten D, Hamacher R, Eberhardt WEE, Schuler M, Herrmann K, Fendler WP, Hautzel H. Fibroblast Activation Protein-Directed Imaging Outperforms 18F-FDG PET/CT in Malignant Mesothelioma: A Prospective, Single-Center, Observational Trial. J Nucl Med 2024:jnumed.124.267473. [PMID: 38960716 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.124.267473] [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: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is highly expressed in tumor and stromal cells of mesothelioma and thus is an interesting imaging and therapeutic target. Previous data on PET imaging with radiolabeled FAP inhibitors (FAPIs) suggest high potential for superior tumor detection. Here, we report the data of a large malignant pleural mesothelioma cohort within a 68Ga-FAPI46 PET observational trial (NCT04571086). Methods: Of 43 eligible patients with suspected or proven malignant mesothelioma, 41 could be included in the data analysis of the 68Ga-FAPI46 PET observational trial. All patients underwent 68Ga-FAPI46 PET/CT, contrast-enhanced CT, and 18F-FDG PET/CT. The primary study endpoint was the association of 68Ga-FAPI46 PET uptake intensity and histopathologic FAP expression. Furthermore, secondary endpoints were detection rate and sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values as compared with 18F-FDG PET/CT. Datasets were interpreted by 2 masked readers. Results: The primary endpoint was met, and the association between 68Ga-FAPI46 SUVmax or SUVpeak and histopathologic FAP expression was significant (SUVmax: r = 0.49, P = 0.037; SUVpeak: r = 0.51, P = 0.030).68Ga-FAPI46 and 18F-FDG showed similar sensitivity by histopathologic validation on a per-patient (100.0% vs. 97.3%) and per region (98.0% vs. 95.9%) basis. Per-region analysis revealed higher 68Ga-FAPI46 than 18F-FDG specificity (81.1% vs. 36.8%) and positive predictive value (87.5% vs. 66.2%). Conclusion: We confirm an association of 68Ga-FAPI46 uptake and histopathologic FAP expression in mesothelioma patients. Additionally, we report high sensitivity and superior specificity and positive predictive value for 68Ga-FAPI46 versus 18F-FDG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Kessler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany;
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Felix Schwaning
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Metzenmacher
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Kim Pabst
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jens Siveke
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marija Trajkovic-Arsic
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Schaarschmidt
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marcel Wiesweg
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Clemens Aigner
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Endoscopy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Till Plönes
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Endoscopy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Visceral, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases, Dresden, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kaid Darwiche
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Section of Interventional Pulmonology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Servet Bölükbas
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Endoscopy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Stuschke
- Department of Radiotherapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lale Umutlu
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Nader
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Dirk Theegarten
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; and
| | - Rainer Hamacher
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wilfried E E Eberhardt
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Schuler
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ken Herrmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang P Fendler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hubertus Hautzel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
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Wang Y, Deng T, Liu X, Fang X, Mo Y, Xie N, Nie G, Zhang B, Fan X. Smart Nanoplatforms Responding to the Tumor Microenvironment for Precise Drug Delivery in Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:6253-6277. [PMID: 38911497 PMCID: PMC11193972 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s459710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic entity, comprising stromal cells, immune cells, blood vessels and extracellular matrix, which is intimately associated with the occurrence and development of cancers, as well as their therapy. Utilizing the shared characteristics of tumors, such as an acidic environment, enzymes and hypoxia, researchers have developed a promising cancer therapy strategy known as responsive release of nano-loaded drugs, specifically targeted at tumor tissues or cells. In this comprehensive review, we provide an in-depth overview of the current fundamentals and state-of-the-art intelligent strategies of TME-responsive nanoplatforms, which include acidic pH, high GSH levels, high-level adenosine triphosphate, overexpressed enzymes, hypoxia and reductive environment. Additionally, we showcase the latest advancements in TME-responsive nanoparticles. In conclusion, we thoroughly examine the immediate challenges and prospects of TME-responsive nanopharmaceuticals, with the expectation that the progress of these targeted nanoformulations will enable the exploitation, overcoming or modulation of the TME, ultimately leading to significantly more effective cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tingting Deng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Longgang Central Hospital, Shenzhen, 518116, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueyang Fang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongpan Mo
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ni Xie
- The Bio-Bank of Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guohui Nie
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqin Fan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Nanozymes and Translational Cancer Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People’s Republic of China
- The Bio-Bank of Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518035, People’s Republic of China
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Li X, Li W, Xu L, Song Y. Chimeric antigen receptor-immune cells against solid tumors: Structures, mechanisms, recent advances, and future developments. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:1285-1302. [PMID: 37640679 PMCID: PMC11191032 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell immunotherapies has led to breakthroughs in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, their success in treating solid tumors has been limited. CAR-natural killer (NK) cells have several advantages over CAR-T cells because NK cells can be made from pre-existing cell lines or allogeneic NK cells with a mismatched major histocompatibility complex (MHC), which means they are more likely to become an "off-the-shelf" product. Moreover, they can kill cancer cells via CAR-dependent/independent pathways and have limited toxicity. Macrophages are the most malleable immune cells in the body. These cells can efficiently infiltrate into tumors and are present in large numbers in tumor microenvironments (TMEs). Importantly, CAR-macrophages (CAR-Ms) have recently yielded exciting preclinical results in several solid tumors. Nevertheless, CAR-T, CAR-NK, and CAR-M all have their own advantages and limitations. In this review, we systematically discuss the current status, progress, and the major hurdles of CAR-T cells, CAR-NK cells, and CAR-M as they relate to five aspects: CAR structure, therapeutic mechanisms, the latest research progress, current challenges and solutions, and comparison according to the existing research in order to provide a reasonable option for treating solid tumors in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Li
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Linping Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| | - Yongping Song
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
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7
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Lanzafame H, Mavroeidi IA, Pabst KM, Desaulniers M, Ingenwerth M, Hirmas N, Kessler L, Nader M, Bartel T, Leyser S, Barbato F, Schuler M, Bauer S, Siveke JT, Herrmann K, Hamacher R, Fendler WP. 68Ga-Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor PET/CT Improves Detection of Intermediate and Low-Grade Sarcomas and Identifies Candidates for Radiopharmaceutical Therapy. J Nucl Med 2024; 65:880-887. [PMID: 38724279 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.267248] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP) is often highly expressed by sarcoma cells and by sarcoma-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. This makes it a promising target for imaging and therapy. The level of FAP expression and the diagnostic value of 68Ga-FAP inhibitor (FAPI) PET for sarcoma subtypes are unknown. We assessed the diagnostic performance and accuracy of 68Ga-FAPI PET in various bone and soft-tissue sarcomas. Potential eligibility for FAP-targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (FAP-RPT) was evaluated. Methods: This prospective observational trial enrolled 200 patients with bone and soft-tissue sarcoma who underwent 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT (186/200, or 93%) for staging or restaging. The number of lesions detected and the uptake (SUVmax) of the primary tumor, lymph nodes, and visceral and bone metastases were analyzed. The Wilcoxon test was used for semiquantitative assessment. The association of 68Ga-FAPI uptake intensity, histopathologic grade, and FAP expression in sarcoma biopsy samples was analyzed using Spearman r correlation. The impact of 68Ga-FAPI PET on clinical management was investigated using questionnaires before and after PET/CT. Eligibility for FAP-RPT was defined by an SUVmax greater than 10 for all tumor regions. Results: 68Ga-FAPI uptake was heterogeneous among sarcoma subtypes. The 3 sarcoma entities with the highest uptake (mean SUVmax ± SD) were solitary fibrous tumor (24.7 ± 11.9), undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (18.8 ± 13.1), and leiomyosarcoma (15.2 ± 10.2). Uptake of 68Ga-FAPI versus 18F-FDG was significantly higher in low-grade sarcomas (10.4 ± 8.5 vs. 7.0 ± 4.5, P = 0.01) and in potentially malignant intermediate or unpredictable sarcomas without a World Health Organization grade (not applicable [NA]; 22.3 ± 12.5 vs. 8.5 ± 10.0, P = 0.0004), including solitary fibrous tumor. The accuracy, as well as the detection rates, of 68Ga-FAPI was higher than that of 18F-FDG in low-grade sarcomas (accuracy, 92.2 vs. 80.0) and NA sarcomas (accuracy, 96.9 vs. 81.9). 68Ga-FAPI uptake and the histopathologic FAP expression score (n = 89) were moderately correlated (Spearman r = 0.43, P < 0.0002). Of 138 patients, 62 (45%) with metastatic sarcoma were eligible for FAP-RPT. Conclusion: In patients with low-grade and NA sarcomas, 68Ga-FAPI PET demonstrates uptake, detection rates, and accuracy superior to those of 18F-FDG PET. 68Ga-FAPI PET criteria identified eligibility for FAP-RPT in about half of sarcoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Lanzafame
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany;
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ilektra A Mavroeidi
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Kim M Pabst
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mélanie Desaulniers
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Marc Ingenwerth
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nader Hirmas
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lukas Kessler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Nader
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Timo Bartel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stephan Leyser
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Francesco Barbato
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Schuler
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases West, Campus Essen, Essen, Germany; and
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases West, Campus Essen, Essen, Germany; and
| | - Jens T Siveke
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases West, Campus Essen, Essen, Germany; and
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy and Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ken Herrmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Rainer Hamacher
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang P Fendler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Consortium partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, DKFZ and University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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8
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Wang L, Zhang L, Dunmall LC, Wang YY, Fan Z, Cheng Z, Wang Y. The dilemmas and possible solutions for CAR-T cell therapy application in solid tumors. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216871. [PMID: 38604310 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216871] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, as an adoptive immunotherapy, is playing an increasingly important role in the treatment of malignant tumors. CAR-T cells are referred to as "living drugs" as they not only target tumor cells directly, but also induce long-term immune memory that has the potential to provide long-lasting protection. CD19.CAR-T cells have achieved complete response rates of over 90 % for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and over 60 % for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, the response rate of CAR-T cells in the treatment of solid tumors remains extremely low and the side effects potentially severe. In this review, we discuss the limitations that the solid tumor microenvironment poses for CAR-T application and the solutions that are being developed to address these limitations, in the hope that in the near future, CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors can attain the same success rates as are now being seen clinically for hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Wang
- Department of Oncology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China; National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lufang Zhang
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Louisa Chard Dunmall
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yang Yang Wang
- Department of General Pediatrics, Newham General Hospital, E13 8SL, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zaiwen Fan
- Department of Oncology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenguo Cheng
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaohe Wang
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Centre for Cancer Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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9
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Chen K, Liu ML, Wang JC, Fang S. CAR-macrophage versus CAR-T for solid tumors: The race between a rising star and a superstar. BIOMOLECULES & BIOMEDICINE 2024; 24:465-476. [PMID: 37877819 PMCID: PMC11088881 DOI: 10.17305/bb.2023.9675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) has been demonstrated to be one of the most promising cancer immunotherapy strategies due to its active antitumor capabilities in vivo. Engineering T cells to overexpress chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), for example, has shown potent efficacy in the therapy of some hematologic malignancies. However, the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy against solid tumors is still limited due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors, difficulty in infiltrating tumor sites, lack of tumor-specific antigens, antigen escape, and severe side effects. In contrast, macrophages expressing CARs (CAR-macrophages) have emerged as another promising candidate in immunotherapy, particularly for solid tumors. Now at its nascent stage (with only one clinical trial progressing), CAR-macrophage still shows inspiring potential advantages over CAR-T in treating solid tumors, including more abundant antitumor mechanisms and better infiltration into tumors. In this review, we discuss the relationships and differences between CAR-T and CAR-macrophage therapies in terms of their CAR structures, antitumor mechanisms, challenges faced in treating solid tumors, and insights gleaned from clinical trials and practice for solid tumors. We especially highlight the potential advantages of CAR-macrophage therapy over CAR-T for solid tumors. Understanding these relationships and differences provides new insight into possible optimization strategies of both these two therapies in solid tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Chen
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Min-ling Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-cheng Wang
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuo Fang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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10
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Wehrli M, Guinn S, Birocchi F, Kuo A, Sun Y, Larson RC, Almazan AJ, Scarfò I, Bouffard AA, Bailey SR, Anekal PV, Llopis PM, Nieman LT, Song Y, Xu KH, Berger TR, Kann MC, Leick MB, Silva H, Salas-Benito D, Kienka T, Grauwet K, Armstrong TD, Zhang R, Zhu Q, Fu J, Schmidts A, Korell F, Jan M, Choi BD, Liss AS, Boland GM, Ting DT, Burkhart RA, Jenkins RW, Zheng L, Jaffee EM, Zimmerman JW, Maus MV. Mesothelin CAR T Cells Secreting Anti-FAP/Anti-CD3 Molecules Efficiently Target Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma and its Stroma. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:1859-1877. [PMID: 38393682 PMCID: PMC11062832 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-3841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Targeting solid tumors with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells remains challenging due to heterogenous target antigen expression, antigen escape, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Pancreatic cancer is characterized by a thick stroma generated by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), which may contribute to the limited efficacy of mesothelin-directed CAR T cells in early-phase clinical trials. To provide a more favorable TME for CAR T cells to target pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), we generated T cells with an antimesothelin CAR and a secreted T-cell-engaging molecule (TEAM) that targets CAF through fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and engages T cells through CD3 (termed mesoFAP CAR-TEAM cells). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Using a suite of in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo patient-derived models containing cancer cells and CAF, we examined the ability of mesoFAP CAR-TEAM cells to target PDAC cells and CAF within the TME. We developed and used patient-derived ex vivo models, including patient-derived organoids with patient-matched CAF and patient-derived organotypic tumor spheroids. RESULTS We demonstrated specific and significant binding of the TEAM to its respective antigens (CD3 and FAP) when released from mesothelin-targeting CAR T cells, leading to T-cell activation and cytotoxicity of the target cell. MesoFAP CAR-TEAM cells were superior in eliminating PDAC and CAF compared with T cells engineered to target either antigen alone in our ex vivo patient-derived models and in mouse models of PDAC with primary or metastatic liver tumors. CONCLUSIONS CAR-TEAM cells enable modification of tumor stroma, leading to increased elimination of PDAC tumors. This approach represents a promising treatment option for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Wehrli
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Samantha Guinn
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Filippo Birocchi
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam Kuo
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yi Sun
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca C. Larson
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonio J. Almazan
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Irene Scarfò
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amanda A. Bouffard
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stefanie R. Bailey
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Linda T. Nieman
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuhui Song
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katherine H. Xu
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Trisha R. Berger
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael C. Kann
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark B. Leick
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Harrison Silva
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diego Salas-Benito
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tamina Kienka
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Korneel Grauwet
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Todd D. Armstrong
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rui Zhang
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Qingfeng Zhu
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Juan Fu
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea Schmidts
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Felix Korell
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Max Jan
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bryan D. Choi
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew S. Liss
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Genevieve M. Boland
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - David T. Ting
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard A. Burkhart
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Russell W. Jenkins
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lei Zheng
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Jaffee
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacquelyn W. Zimmerman
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cancer Convergence Institute and Bloomberg Kimmel Institute at Johns Hopkins; University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marcela V. Maus
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
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11
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Kou Z, Liu C, Zhang W, Sun C, Liu L, Zhang Q. Heterogeneity of primary and metastatic CAFs: From differential treatment outcomes to treatment opportunities (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:54. [PMID: 38577950 PMCID: PMC11015919 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5642] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared with primary tumor sites, metastatic sites appear more resistant to treatments and respond differently to the treatment regimen. It may be due to the heterogeneity in the microenvironment between metastatic sites and primary tumors. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are widely present in the tumor stroma as key components of the tumor microenvironment. Primary tumor CAFs (pCAFs) and metastatic CAFs (mCAFs) are heterogeneous in terms of source, activation mode, markers and functional phenotypes. They can shape the tumor microenvironment according to organ, showing heterogeneity between primary tumors and metastases, which may affect the sensitivity of these sites to treatment. It was hypothesized that understanding the heterogeneity between pCAFs and mCAFs can provide a glimpse into the difference in treatment outcomes, providing new ideas for improving the rate of metastasis control in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixing Kou
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa Island 999078, Macau SAR, P.R. China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Zhang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
- Department of Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100007, P.R. China
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12
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Buruiană A, Gheban BA, Gheban-Roșca IA, Georgiu C, Crișan D, Crișan M. The Tumor Stroma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Complex Environment That Fuels Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1727. [PMID: 38730679 PMCID: PMC11083853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091727] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex assembly of cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, plays a crucial role in driving tumor progression, shaping treatment responses, and influencing metastasis. This narrative review focuses on the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) tumor stroma, highlighting its key constituents and their dynamic contributions. We examine how significant changes within the cSCC ECM-specifically, alterations in fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, laminins, proteoglycans, and collagens-promote cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. The cellular composition of the cSCC TME is also explored, detailing the intricate interplay of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and various immune cell populations. These diverse players modulate tumor development, angiogenesis, and immune responses. Finally, we emphasize the TME's potential as a therapeutic target. Emerging strategies discussed in this review include harnessing the immune system (adoptive cell transfer, checkpoint blockade), hindering tumor angiogenesis, disrupting CAF activity, and manipulating ECM components. These approaches underscore the vital role that deciphering TME interactions plays in advancing cSCC therapy. Further research illuminating these complex relationships will uncover new avenues for developing more effective treatments for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buruiană
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Bogdan-Alexandru Gheban
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana-Andreea Gheban-Roșca
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400129 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Carmen Georgiu
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Doința Crișan
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Maria Crișan
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
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13
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Amorós-Pérez B, Rivas-Pardo B, Gómez del Moral M, Subiza JL, Martínez-Naves E. State of the Art in CAR-T Cell Therapy for Solid Tumors: Is There a Sweeter Future? Cells 2024; 13:725. [PMID: 38727261 PMCID: PMC11083689 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has proven to be a powerful treatment for hematological malignancies. The situation is very different in the case of solid tumors, for which no CAR-T-based therapy has yet been approved. There are many factors contributing to the absence of response in solid tumors to CAR-T cells, such as the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), T cell exhaustion, or the lack of suitable antigen targets, which should have a stable and specific expression on tumor cells. Strategies being developed to improve CAR-T-based therapy for solid tumors include the use of new-generation CARs such as TRUCKs or bi-specific CARs, the combination of CAR therapy with chemo- or radiotherapy, the use of checkpoint inhibitors, and the use of oncolytic viruses. Furthermore, despite the scarcity of targets, a growing number of phase I/II clinical trials are exploring new solid-tumor-associated antigens. Most of these antigens are of a protein nature; however, there is a clear potential in identifying carbohydrate-type antigens associated with tumors, or carbohydrate and proteoglycan antigens that emerge because of aberrant glycosylations occurring in the context of tumor transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Amorós-Pérez
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.A.-P.); (B.R.-P.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Inmunotek S.L., 28805 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Benigno Rivas-Pardo
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.A.-P.); (B.R.-P.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Gómez del Moral
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | | | - Eduardo Martínez-Naves
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.A.-P.); (B.R.-P.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
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14
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Dash CP, Sonowal D, Dhaka P, Yadav R, Chettri D, Satapathy BP, Sheoran P, Uttam V, Jain M, Jain A. Antitumor activity of genetically engineered NK-cells in non-hematological solid tumor: a comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1390498. [PMID: 38694508 PMCID: PMC11061440 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1390498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in genetic engineering have made it possible to modify Natural Killer (NK) cells to enhance their ability to fight against various cancers, including solid tumors. This comprehensive overview discusses the current status of genetically engineered chimeric antigen receptor NK-cell therapies and their potential for treating solid tumors. We explore the inherent characteristics of NK cells and their role in immune regulation and tumor surveillance. Moreover, we examine the strategies used to genetically engineer NK cells in terms of efficacy, safety profile, and potential clinical applications. Our investigation suggests CAR-NK cells can effectively target and regress non-hematological malignancies, demonstrating enhanced antitumor efficacy. This implies excellent promise for treating tumors using genetically modified NK cells. Notably, NK cells exhibit low graft versus host disease (GvHD) potential and rarely induce significant toxicities, making them an ideal platform for CAR engineering. The adoptive transfer of allogeneic NK cells into patients further emphasizes the versatility of NK cells for various applications. We also address challenges and limitations associated with the clinical translation of genetically engineered NK-cell therapies, such as off-target effects, immune escape mechanisms, and manufacturing scalability. We provide strategies to overcome these obstacles through combination therapies and delivery optimization. Overall, we believe this review contributes to advancing NK-cell-based immunotherapy as a promising approach for cancer treatment by elucidating the underlying mechanisms, evaluating preclinical and clinical evidence, and addressing remaining challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinmayee Priyadarsini Dash
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dhruba Sonowal
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prachi Dhaka
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Rohit Yadav
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dewan Chettri
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Bibhu Prasad Satapathy
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Pooja Sheoran
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Uttam
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Manju Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Aklank Jain
- Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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15
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Lv D, Fei Y, Chen H, Wang J, Han W, Cui B, Feng Y, Zhang P, Chen J. Crosstalk between T lymphocyte and extracellular matrix in tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1340702. [PMID: 38690275 PMCID: PMC11058664 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1340702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex three-dimensional structure composed of proteins, glycans, and proteoglycans, constituting a critical component of the tumor microenvironment. Complex interactions among immune cells, extracellular matrix, and tumor cells promote tumor development and metastasis, consequently influencing therapeutic efficacy. Hence, elucidating these interaction mechanisms is pivotal for precision cancer therapy. T lymphocytes are an important component of the immune system, exerting direct anti-tumor effects by attacking tumor cells or releasing lymphokines to enhance immune effects. The ECM significantly influences T cells function and infiltration within the tumor microenvironment, thereby impacting the behavior and biological characteristics of tumor cells. T cells are involved in regulating the synthesis, degradation, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix through the secretion of cytokines and enzymes. As a result, it affects the proliferation and invasive ability of tumor cells as well as the efficacy of immunotherapy. This review discusses the mechanisms underlying T lymphocyte-ECM interactions in the tumor immune microenvironment and their potential application in immunotherapy. It provides novel insights for the development of innovative tumor therapeutic strategies and drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Center for Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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16
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Zhou D, Zheng L. Recent advances in cancer-associated fibroblast: Biomarkers, signaling pathways, and therapeutic opportunities. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:638-650. [PMID: 38420743 PMCID: PMC10950138 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003031] [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: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Anti-cancer therapies usually focus on tumor cells, but non-tumor stromal components in the tumor microenvironment also play vital roles in tumor initiation and progression, which may be the prognostic factors and potential therapeutic targets. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the essential component in the tumor environment, exhibiting high heterogeneity in their cell origin and phenotype with diverse functions that influence tumor angiogenesis, immune systems, and metabolism. Single-cell RNA sequencing and genetically engineered mouse models have increased our understanding of CAF diversity, and many subtypes have been defined. However, the precise functions of these subtypes need to be studied and validated. Studies of signaling pathways and epigenetic changes in CAFs facilitate understanding of the phenotypes of CAFs and the crosstalk between tumor cells and CAFs to provide potential therapeutic targets. Some clinical trials, including phase III trials targeting CAFs, have been performed recently. However, few of these trials have generated promising results, which indicates that the complexity of CAFs in the tumor microenvironment remains largely unknown, and in-depth investigations of CAFs should be performed. This review summarizes the research on CAFs, focusing on the heterogeneity of their phenotypes and functions, specific signaling pathways, and the therapeutic strategies involving CAFs. Additionally, we briefly discuss the current technologies commonly used in CAF studies and describe the challenges and future perspectives of CAF research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donger Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Skip Viragh Pancreatic Cancer Center for Clinical Research and Care, and The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Immunotherapy at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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17
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Zhang PF, Xie D. Targeting the gut microbiota to enhance the antitumor efficacy and attenuate the toxicity of CAR-T cell therapy: a new hope? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362133. [PMID: 38558812 PMCID: PMC10978602 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) -T cell therapy has achieved tremendous efficacy in the treatment of hematologic malignancies and represents a promising treatment regimen for cancer. Despite the striking response in patients with hematologic malignancies, most patients with solid tumors treated with CAR-T cells have a low response rate and experience major adverse effects, which indicates the need for biomarkers that can predict and improve clinical outcomes with future CAR-T cell treatments. Recently, the role of the gut microbiota in cancer therapy has been established, and growing evidence has suggested that gut microbiota signatures may be harnessed to personally predict therapeutic response or adverse effects in optimizing CAR-T cell therapy. In this review, we discuss current understanding of CAR-T cell therapy and the gut microbiota, and the interplay between the gut microbiota and CAR-T cell therapy. Above all, we highlight potential strategies and challenges in harnessing the gut microbiota as a predictor and modifier of CAR-T cell therapy efficacy while attenuating toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhang
- Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Xie
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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18
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Cords L, Engler S, Haberecker M, Rüschoff JH, Moch H, de Souza N, Bodenmiller B. Cancer-associated fibroblast phenotypes are associated with patient outcome in non-small cell lung cancer. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:396-412.e5. [PMID: 38242124 PMCID: PMC10929690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.12.021] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Despite advances in treatment, lung cancer survival rates remain low. A better understanding of the cellular heterogeneity and interplay of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the tumor microenvironment will support the development of personalized therapies. We report a spatially resolved single-cell imaging mass cytometry (IMC) analysis of CAFs in a non-small cell lung cancer cohort of 1,070 patients. We identify four prognostic patient groups based on 11 CAF phenotypes with distinct spatial distributions and show that CAFs are independent prognostic factors for patient survival. The presence of tumor-like CAFs is strongly correlated with poor prognosis. In contrast, inflammatory CAFs and interferon-response CAFs are associated with inflamed tumor microenvironments and higher patient survival. High density of matrix CAFs is correlated with low immune infiltration and is negatively correlated with patient survival. In summary, our data identify phenotypic and spatial features of CAFs that are associated with patient outcome in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Cords
- Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, 8049 Zurich, Switzerland; Life Science Zurich Graduate School, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Engler
- Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, 8049 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Haberecker
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hendrik Rüschoff
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holger Moch
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Natalie de Souza
- Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, 8049 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Bodenmiller
- Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, 8049 Zurich, Switzerland.
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19
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Hirmas N, Hamacher R, Sraieb M, Kessler L, Pabst KM, Barbato F, Lanzafame H, Kasper S, Nader M, Kesch C, von Tresckow B, Hautzel H, Aigner C, Glas M, Stuschke M, Kümmel S, Harter P, Lugnier C, Uhl W, Hadaschik B, Grünwald V, Siveke JT, Herrmann K, Fendler WP. Diagnostic Accuracy of 68Ga-FAPI Versus 18F-FDG PET in Patients with Various Malignancies. J Nucl Med 2024:jnumed.123.266652. [PMID: 38331453 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.266652] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
To assess the diagnostic accuracy of 68Ga-labeled fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) and 18F-labeled FDG PET for the detection of various tumors, we performed a head-to-head comparison of both imaging modalities across a range of tumor entities as part of our ongoing 68Ga-FAPI PET observational trial. Methods: The study included 115 patients with 8 tumor entities who received imaging with 68Ga-FAPI for tumor staging or restaging between October 2018 and March 2022. Of those, 103 patients received concomitant imaging with 68Ga-FAPI and 18F-FDG PET and had adequate lesion validation for accuracy analysis. Each scan was evaluated for the detection of primary tumor, lymph nodes, and visceral and bone metastases. True or false positivity and negativity to detected lesions was assigned on the basis of histopathology from biopsies or surgical excision, as well as imaging validation. Results: 68Ga-FAPI PET revealed higher accuracy than 18F-FDG PET in the detection of colorectal cancer (n = 14; per-patient, 85.7% vs. 78.6%; per-region, 95.6% vs. 91.1%) and prostate cancer (n = 22; per-patient, 100% vs. 90.9%; per-region, 96.4% vs. 92.7%). 68Ga-FAPI PET and 18F-FDG PET had comparable per-patient accuracy in detecting breast cancer (n = 16, 100% for both) and head and neck cancers (n = 10, 90% for both modalities). 68Ga-FAPI PET had lower per-patient accuracy than 18F-FDG PET in cancers of the bladder (n = 12, 75% vs. 100%) and kidney (n = 10, 80% vs. 90%), as well as lymphoma (n = 9, 88.9% vs. 100%) and myeloma (n = 10, 80% vs. 90%). Conclusion: 68Ga-FAPI PET demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy than 18F-FDG PET in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer and prostate cancer, as well as comparable diagnostic performance for cancers of the breast and head and neck. Accuracy and impact on management will be further assessed in an ongoing prospective interventional trial (NCT05160051).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Hirmas
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany;
| | - Rainer Hamacher
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Miriam Sraieb
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lukas Kessler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Kim M Pabst
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Francesco Barbato
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Helena Lanzafame
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan Kasper
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Nader
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Claudia Kesch
- Department of Urology, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Bastian von Tresckow
- Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, West German Cancer Center, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hubertus Hautzel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Clemens Aigner
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Endoscopy, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Glas
- Division of Clinical Neurooncology, Department of Neurology, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Stuschke
- Department of Radiation Therapy, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sherko Kümmel
- Breast Unit, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
- Department of Gynecology with Breast Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Harter
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Evangelische Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Celine Lugnier
- Department of Hematology and Oncology with Palliative Care, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Waldemar Uhl
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Boris Hadaschik
- Department of Urology, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Viktor Grünwald
- Department of Urology, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jens T Siveke
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; and
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK partner site Essen), German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ken Herrmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang P Fendler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Consortium-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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20
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Li X, Lu N, Lin L, Chen Y, Yang S, Wang H, Liu X, Wu C, Xue X, Su X, Bai X, Liang T. 18F-FAPI-04 Outperforms 18F-FDG PET/CT in Clinical Assessments of Patients with Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. J Nucl Med 2024; 65:206-212. [PMID: 38176719 PMCID: PMC10858376 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.266283] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for selecting treatment for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The desmoplastic responses associated with PDAC are often characterized by hypometabolism. Here, we investigated 18F-fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI)-04 PET/CT in evaluation of PDAC and compared the findings with those obtained using 18F-FDG. Methods: Sixty-two PDAC patients underwent 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Identification of primary lesions, lymph node (LN) metastasis, and distant metastasis (DM) by these methods was evaluated, and TNM staging was performed. Correlation between SUVmax of the primary lesion and treatment response was explored in patients who received systemic therapy. Results: 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT identified all patients with PDAC; 18F-FDG PET/CT missed 1 patient. Tracer uptake was higher in 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT than in 18F-FDG PET/CT in primary tumors (10.63 vs. 2.87, P < 0.0001), LN metastasis (2.90 vs. 1.43, P < 0.0001), and DM (liver, 6.11 vs. 3.10, P = 0.002; peritoneal, 4.70 vs. 2.08, P = 0.015). The methods showed no significant difference in the T staging category, but the N and M values were significantly higher for 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT than for 18F-FDG PET/CT (P = 0.002 and 0.008, respectively). Thus, 14 patients were upgraded, and only 1 patient was downgraded, by 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT compared with 18F-FDG PET/CT. A high SUVmax of the primary tumor did not correlate with treatment response for either 18F-FAPI-04 or 18F-FDG. Conclusion: 18F-FAPI-04 PET/CT performed better than 18F-FDG PET/CT in identification of primary tumors, LN metastasis, and DM and in TNM staging of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Na Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lili Lin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiwen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuye Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huatao Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengyi Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xing Xue
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; and
| | - Xinhui Su
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China;
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China;
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, China
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21
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Cai F, Zhang J, Gao H, Shen H. Tumor microenvironment and CAR-T cell immunotherapy in B-cell lymphoma. Eur J Haematol 2024; 112:223-235. [PMID: 37706523 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.14103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric receptor antigen T cell (CAR-T cell) therapy has demonstrated effectiveness and therapeutic potential in the immunotherapy of hematological malignancies, representing a promising breakthrough in cancer treatment. Despite the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy in B-cell lymphoma, response variability, resistance, and side effects remain persistent challenges. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an intricate role in CAR-T cell therapy of B-cell lymphoma. The TME is a complex and dynamic environment that includes various cell types, cytokines, and extracellular matrix components, all of which can influence CAR-T cell function and behavior. This review discusses the design principles of CAR-T cells, TME in B-cell lymphoma, and the mechanisms by which TME influences CAR-T cell function. We discuss emerging strategies aimed at modulating the TME, targeting immunosuppressive cells, overcoming inhibitory signaling, and improving CAR-T cell infiltration and persistence. Therefore, these processes enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy and improve patient outcomes in B-cell lymphoma. Further research will be needed to investigate the molecular and cellular events that occur post-infusion, including changes in TME composition, immune cell interactions, cytokine signaling, and potential resistance mechanisms. Understanding these processes will contribute to the development of more effective CAR-T cell therapies and strategies to mitigate treatment-related toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengqing Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongqiang Shen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
- Joint Research Center for Immune Landscape and Precision Medicine in Children, Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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22
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Dunbar KJ, Wong KK, Rustgi AK. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Esophageal Cancer. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:687-695. [PMID: 38246591 PMCID: PMC10958110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.008] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a heterogenous population, can promote cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, immunosuppression, and therapeutic resistance in solid tumors. These effects are mediated through secretion of cytokines and growth factors, remodeling of the extracellular matrix, and providing metabolic support for cancer cells. The presence of CAFs in esophageal carcinoma are associated with reduced overall survival and increased resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy; thus, identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities of CAFs is a necessity. In esophageal cancer, the mechanisms for CAF recruitment, CAF-mediated promotion of tumorigenesis, metastatic dissemination, and therapeutic resistance have yet to be fully evaluated. Here, we provide an overview of the current understanding of CAFs in esophageal cancer, namely in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma, as well as in the preneoplastic conditions that predispose to these cancers. Interestingly, there is a discrepancy in our knowledge of CAF biology between esophageal cancer subtypes, with very few studies in esophageal adenocarcinoma, and its precursor lesion Barrett's esophagus, compared with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. We propose that although great strides have been made, certain questions remain to which answers hopefully will emerge to have an impact on biomarker diagnostics and translational therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Dunbar
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Kwok K Wong
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Anil K Rustgi
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.
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23
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Albelda SM. CAR T cell therapy for patients with solid tumours: key lessons to learn and unlearn. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:47-66. [PMID: 37904019 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00832-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been approved for use in patients with B cell malignancies or relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma, yet efficacy against most solid tumours remains elusive. The limited imaging and biopsy data from clinical trials in this setting continues to hinder understanding, necessitating a reliance on imperfect preclinical models. In this Perspective, I re-evaluate current data and suggest potential pathways towards greater success, drawing lessons from the few successful trials testing CAR T cells in patients with solid tumours and the clinical experience with tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes. The most promising approaches include the use of pluripotent stem cells, co-targeting multiple mechanisms of immune evasion, employing multiple co-stimulatory domains, and CAR ligand-targeting vaccines. An alternative strategy focused on administering multiple doses of short-lived CAR T cells in an attempt to pre-empt exhaustion and maintain a functional effector pool should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Albelda
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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24
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Chamorro DF, Somes LK, Hoyos V. Engineered Adoptive T-Cell Therapies for Breast Cancer: Current Progress, Challenges, and Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:124. [PMID: 38201551 PMCID: PMC10778447 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010124] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains a significant health challenge, and novel treatment approaches are critically needed. This review presents an in-depth analysis of engineered adoptive T-cell therapies (E-ACTs), an innovative frontier in cancer immunotherapy, focusing on their application in breast cancer. We explore the evolving landscape of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and T-cell receptor (TCR) T-cell therapies, highlighting their potential and challenges in targeting breast cancer. The review addresses key obstacles such as target antigen selection, the complex breast cancer tumor microenvironment, and the persistence of engineered T-cells. We discuss the advances in overcoming these barriers, including strategies to enhance T-cell efficacy. Finally, our comprehensive analysis of the current clinical trials in this area provides insights into the future possibilities and directions of E-ACTs in breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F. Chamorro
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
| | - Lauren K. Somes
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
| | - Valentina Hoyos
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.F.C.); (L.K.S.)
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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25
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Li S, Zhang H, Shang G. Current status and future challenges of CAR-T cell therapy for osteosarcoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1290762. [PMID: 38187386 PMCID: PMC10766856 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1290762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma, the most common bone malignancy in children and adolescents, poses considerable challenges in terms of prognosis, especially for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. While surgical intervention and adjuvant chemotherapy have improved survival rates, limitations such as impractical tumor removal or chemotherapy resistance hinder the treatment outcomes. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, an innovative immunotherapy approach that involves targeting tumor antigens and releasing immune factors, has shown significant advancements in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, its application in solid tumors, including osteosarcoma, is constrained by factors such as low antigen specificity, limited persistence, and the complex tumor microenvironment. Research on osteosarcoma is ongoing, and some targets have shown promising results in pre-clinical studies. This review summarizes the current status of research on CAR-T cell therapy for osteosarcoma by compiling recent literature. It also proposes future research directions to enhance the treatment of osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhe Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Guanning Shang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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Loureiro LR, Hoffmann L, Neuber C, Rupp L, Arndt C, Kegler A, Kubeil M, Hagemeyer CE, Stephan H, Schmitz M, Feldmann A, Bachmann M. Immunotheranostic target modules for imaging and navigation of UniCAR T-cells to strike FAP-expressing cells and the tumor microenvironment. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:341. [PMID: 38102692 PMCID: PMC10722841 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02912-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells are a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy, particularly for treating hematologic malignancies. Yet, their effectiveness is limited when tackling solid tumors, where immune cell infiltration and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) are major hurdles. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is highly expressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and various tumor cells, playing an important role in tumor growth and immunosuppression. Aiming to modulate the TME with increased clinical safety and effectiveness, we developed novel small and size-extended immunotheranostic UniCAR target modules (TMs) targeting FAP. METHODS The specific binding and functionality of the αFAP-scFv TM and the size-extended αFAP-IgG4 TM were assessed using 2D and 3D in vitro models as well as in vivo. Their specific tumor accumulation and diagnostic potential were evaluated using PET studies after functionalization with a chelator and suitable radionuclide. RESULTS The αFAP-scFv and -IgG4 TMs effectively and specifically redirected UniCAR T-cells using 2D, 3D, and in vivo models. Moreover, a remarkably high and specific accumulation of radiolabeled FAP-targeting TMs at the tumor site of xenograft mouse models was observed. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that the novel αFAP TMs are promising immunotheranostic tools to foster cancer imaging and treatment, paving the way for a more convenient, individualized, and safer treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana R Loureiro
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
| | - Lydia Hoffmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Christin Neuber
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Luise Rupp
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Arndt
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexandra Kegler
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Manja Kubeil
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph E Hagemeyer
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Holger Stephan
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Marc Schmitz
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Feldmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Bachmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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Dagher OK, Posey AD. Forks in the road for CAR T and CAR NK cell cancer therapies. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1994-2007. [PMID: 38012406 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01659-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has resulted in unprecedented long-term clearance of relapse/refractory hematological malignancies in both pediatric and adult patients. However, severe toxicities, such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, associated with CAR T cells affect therapeutic utility; and treatment efficacies for solid tumors are still not impressive. As a result, engineering strategies that modify other immune cell types, especially natural killer (NK) cells have arisen. Owing to both CAR-dependent and CAR-independent (innate immune-mediated) antitumor killing capacity, major histocompatibility complex-independent cytotoxicity, reduced risk of alloreactivity and lack of major CAR T cell toxicities, CAR NK cells constitute one of the promising next-generation CAR immune cells that are also amenable as 'off-the-shelf' therapeutics. In this Review, we compare CAR T and CAR NK cell therapies, with particular focus on immunological synapses, engineering strategies and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oula K Dagher
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Avery D Posey
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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28
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Mutsaers SE, Miles T, Prêle CM, Hoyne GF. Emerging role of immune cells as drivers of pulmonary fibrosis. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 252:108562. [PMID: 37952904 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108562] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and other forms of interstitial lung disease, involves a complex interplay of various factors including host genetics, environmental pollutants, infection, aberrant repair and dysregulated immune responses. Highly variable clinical outcomes of some ILDs, in particular IPF, have made it difficult to identify the precise mechanisms involved in disease pathogenesis and thus the development of a specific cure or treatment to halt and reverse the decline in patient health. With the advent of in-depth molecular diagnostics, it is becoming evident that the pathogenesis of IPF is unlikely to be the same for all patients and therefore will likely require different treatment approaches. Chronic inflammation is a cardinal feature of IPF and is driven by both innate and adaptive immune responses. Inflammatory cells and activated fibroblasts secrete various pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that perpetuate the inflammatory response and contribute to the recruitment and activation of more immune cells and fibroblasts. The balance between pro-inflammatory and regulatory immune cell subsets, as well as the interactions between immune cell types and resident cells within the lung microenvironment, ultimately determines the extent of fibrosis and the potential for resolution. This review examines the role of the innate and adaptive immune responses in pulmonary fibrosis, with an emphasis on IPF. The role of different immune cell types is discussed as well as novel anti-inflammatory and immunotherapy approaches currently in clinical trial or in preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Mutsaers
- Institute for Respiratory Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
| | - Tylah Miles
- Institute for Respiratory Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Cecilia M Prêle
- Institute for Respiratory Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia; School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, WA, Australia
| | - Gerard F Hoyne
- Institute for Respiratory Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia; The School of Health Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
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29
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Tang L, Pan S, Wei X, Xu X, Wei Q. Arming CAR-T cells with cytokines and more: Innovations in the fourth-generation CAR-T development. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3146-3162. [PMID: 37803832 PMCID: PMC10638038 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) therapy has shown great potential in tumor treatment. However, many factors impair the efficacy of CAR-T therapy, such as antigenic heterogeneity and loss, limited potency and persistence, poor infiltration capacity, and a suppressive tumor microenvironment. To overcome these obstacles, recent studies have reported a new generation of CAR-T cells expressing cytokines called armored CAR-T, TRUCK-T, or the fourth-generation CAR-T. Here we summarize the strategies of arming CAR-T cells with natural or synthetic cytokine signals to enhance their anti-tumor capacity. Moreover, we summarize the advances in CAR-T cells expressing non-cytokine proteins, such as membrane receptors, antibodies, enzymes, co-stimulatory molecules, and transcriptional factors. Furthermore, we discuss several prospective strategies for armored CAR-T therapy development. Altogether, these ideas may provide new insights for the innovations of the next-generation CAR-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Tang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Sheng Pan
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
| | - Qiang Wei
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
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30
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Cui Y, Luo M, Gu C, He Y, Yao Y, Li P. CAR designs for solid tumors: overcoming hurdles and paving the way for effective immunotherapy. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2023; 9:279-297. [PMID: 38516299 PMCID: PMC10951476 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2023.230020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy has revolutionized immunotherapy by modifying patients' immune cells genetically. By expressing CARs, these modified cells can specifically identify and eliminate tumor cells. The success of CAR-T therapy in hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma, has been remarkable. Numerous studies have reported improved patient outcomes and increased survival rates. However, the application of CAR-T therapy in treating solid tumors faces significant challenges. Solid tumors possess complex microenvironments containing stromal cells, extracellular matrix components, and blood vessels. These factors can impede the infiltration and persistence of CAR-T cells within the tumor. Additionally, the lack of target antigens exclusively expressed on tumor cells raises concerns about off-target effects and potential toxicity. This review aims to discuss advancements achieved by CAR-T therapy in solid tumors and the clinical outcomes in the realm of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanbin Cui
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Mintao Luo
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Chuanyuan Gu
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Yuxian He
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0021, USA
| | - Yao Yao
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Peng Li
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
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31
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Giles JR, Globig AM, Kaech SM, Wherry EJ. CD8 + T cells in the cancer-immunity cycle. Immunity 2023; 56:2231-2253. [PMID: 37820583 PMCID: PMC11237652 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
CD8+ T cells are end effectors of cancer immunity. Most forms of effective cancer immunotherapy involve CD8+ T cell effector function. Here, we review the current understanding of T cell function in cancer, focusing on key CD8+ T cell subtypes and states. We discuss factors that influence CD8+ T cell differentiation and function in cancer through a framework that incorporates the classic three-signal model and a fourth signal-metabolism-and also consider the impact of the tumor microenvironment from a T cell perspective. We argue for the notion of immunotherapies as "pro-drugs" that act to augment or modulate T cells, which ultimately serve as the drug in vivo, and for the importance of overall immune health in cancer treatment and prevention. The progress in understanding T cell function in cancer has and will continue to improve harnessing of the immune system across broader tumor types to benefit more patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine R Giles
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Institute for Immunology and Immune Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anna-Maria Globig
- NOMIS Center for Immunobiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Susan M Kaech
- NOMIS Center for Immunobiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - E John Wherry
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Institute for Immunology and Immune Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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32
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Zubaľ M, Výmolová B, Matrasová I, Výmola P, Vepřková J, Syrůček M, Tomáš R, Vaníčková Z, Křepela E, Konečná D, Bušek P, Šedo A. Fibroblast activation protein as a potential theranostic target in brain metastases of diverse solid tumours. Pathology 2023; 55:806-817. [PMID: 37419841 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Brain metastases are a very common and serious complication of oncological diseases. Despite the vast progress in multimodality treatment, brain metastases significantly decrease the quality of life and prognosis of patients. Therefore, identifying new targets in the microenvironment of brain metastases is desirable. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a transmembrane serine protease typically expressed in tumour-associated stromal cells. Due to its characteristic presence in the tumour microenvironment, FAP represents an attractive theranostic target in oncology. However, there is little information on FAP expression in brain metastases. In this study, we quantified FAP expression in samples of brain metastases of various primary origin and characterised FAP-expressing cells. We have shown that FAP expression is significantly higher in brain metastases in comparison to non-tumorous brain tissues, both at the protein and enzymatic activity levels. FAP immunopositivity was localised in regions rich in collagen and containing blood vessels. We have further shown that FAP is predominantly confined to stromal cells expressing markers typical of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). We have also observed FAP immunopositivity on tumour cells in a portion of brain metastases, mainly originating from melanoma, lung, breast, and renal cancer, and sarcoma. There were no significant differences in the quantity of FAP protein, enzymatic activity, and FAP+ stromal cells among brain metastasis samples of various origins, suggesting that there is no association of FAP expression and/or presence of FAP+ stromal cells with the histological type of brain metastases. In summary, we are the first to establish the expression of FAP and characterise FAP-expressing cells in the microenvironment of brain metastases. The frequent upregulation of FAP and its presence on both stromal and tumour cells support the use of FAP as a promising theranostic target in brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Zubaľ
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Výmolová
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Matrasová
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Výmola
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Vepřková
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Syrůček
- Department of Pathology, Na Homolce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Tomáš
- Department of Neurosurgery, Na Homolce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdislava Vaníčková
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Evžen Křepela
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dora Konečná
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Departments of Neurosurgery and Neurooncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Military University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Bušek
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Aleksi Šedo
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Zhao Y, Shen M, Wu L, Yang H, Yao Y, Yang Q, Du J, Liu L, Li Y, Bai Y. Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment: accomplices of tumor progression? Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:587. [PMID: 37666813 PMCID: PMC10477351 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is made up of cells and extracellular matrix (non-cellular component), and cellular components include cancer cells and non-malignant cells such as immune cells and stromal cells. These three types of cells establish complex signals in the body and further influence tumor genesis, development, metastasis and participate in resistance to anti-tumor therapy. It has attracted scholars to study immune cells in TME due to the significant efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) in solid tumors and hematologic tumors. After more than 10 years of efforts, the role of immune cells in TME and the strategy of treating tumors based on immune cells have developed rapidly. Moreover, ICI have been recommended by guidelines as first- or second-line treatment strategies in a variety of tumors. At the same time, stromal cells is another major class of cellular components in TME, which also play a very important role in tumor metabolism, growth, metastasis, immune evasion and treatment resistance. Stromal cells can be recruited from neighboring non-cancerous host stromal cells and can also be formed by transdifferentiation from stromal cells to stromal cells or from tumor cells to stromal cells. Moreover, they participate in tumor genesis, development and drug resistance by secreting various factors and exosomes, participating in tumor angiogenesis and tumor metabolism, regulating the immune response in TME and extracellular matrix. However, with the deepening understanding of stromal cells, people found that stromal cells not only have the effect of promoting tumor but also can inhibit tumor in some cases. In this review, we will introduce the origin of stromal cells in TME as well as the role and specific mechanism of stromal cells in tumorigenesis and tumor development and strategies for treatment of tumors based on stromal cells. We will focus on tumor-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), tumor-associated adipocytes (CAAs), tumor endothelial cells (TECs) and pericytes (PCs) in stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Meili Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Liangqiang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haiqin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yixuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingbiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jianshi Du
- Key Laboratory of Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, Jilin Engineering Laboratory for Lymphatic Surgery Jilin Province, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yapeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Special Engineering Plastics Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 130012, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuansong Bai
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 130033, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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Xu M, Chen J, Zhang P, Cai J, Song H, Li Z, Liu Z. An antibody-radionuclide conjugate targets fibroblast activation protein for cancer therapy. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2023; 50:3214-3224. [PMID: 37318538 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-023-06300-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fibroblast activation protein is one of the most attractive targets for tumor diagnosis and therapy. There have been many successful clinical translations with small molecules and peptides, yet only a few anti-FAP antibody diagnostic or therapeutic agents have been reported. Antibodies often feature good tumor selectivity and long tumor retention, which may be a better-match with therapeutic radionuclides (e.g.,177Lu, 225Ac) for cancer therapy. Here we report a 177Lu-labeled anti-FAP antibody, PKU525, as a therapeutic radiopharmaceutical for FAP-targeted radiotherapy. METHODS The anti-FAP antibody is produced as a derivative of sibrotuzumab. The pharmacokinetics and blocking study are performed with 89Zr-labeled antibody by PET imaging. The conjugation strategies have been screened and tested with SPECT imaging through 177Lu-labeling. The biodistribution and radiotherapy studies are performed on 177Lu-labeled anti-FAP antibody in NU/NU mice-bearing HT-1080-FAP tumors. RESULTS A multiple time-point PET imaging study shows that the tumor accumulation of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PKU525 is intense, selective, and relatively rapid. The time activity curve indicates that the tumor uptake continually increases until reaches the highest uptake (SUVmax = 18.4 ± 2.3, n = 4) at 192 h, then gradually declines. Radioactivity rapidly cleared from the blood, liver, and other major organs, resulting in high tumor-to-background ratios. An in vivo blocking experiment suggests that [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PKU525 is FAP-specific and the uptake in FAP-negative tumors is almost negligible. Ex vivo biodistribution study shows that the tumor uptake of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-NCS-PKU525 is 23.04 ± 5.11% ID/g, 33.2 ± 6.36% ID/g, 19.87 ± 6.84% ID/g and 19.02 ± 5.90% ID/g at 24 h, 96 h, 168 h, and 240 h after injection (n = 5), which is corroborated with the PET imaging. In therapeutic assays, multiple doses of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-NCS-PKU525 have been tested in tumor-bearing mice, and the data suggests that 3.7 MBq may be sufficient to completely suppress the tumor growth in mice without showing observable side effects. CONCLUSION A FAP-targeted antibody-radionuclide conjugate was developed and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Its tumor accumulation is rapid and high with a clean background. It remarkably suppresses the tumors in mice while the side effect is almost negligible, showing that it is promising for further clinical translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxin Xu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Junyi Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Pu Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jie Cai
- Boomray Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Hanbo Song
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Zhu Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Zhibo Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, 102206, China.
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Peking University-Tsinghua University Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Shakhpazyan N, Mikhaleva L, Bedzhanyan A, Gioeva Z, Sadykhov N, Mikhalev A, Atiakshin D, Buchwalow I, Tiemann M, Orekhov A. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of the Tumor Stroma in Colorectal Cancer: Insights into Disease Progression and Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2361. [PMID: 37760801 PMCID: PMC10525158 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092361] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health burden worldwide and is the third most common type of cancer. The early detection and diagnosis of CRC is critical to improve patient outcomes. This review explores the intricate interplay between the tumor microenvironment, stromal interactions, and the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer. The review begins by assessing the gut microbiome's influence on CRC development, emphasizing its association with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). The role of the Wnt signaling pathway in CRC tumor stroma is scrutinized, elucidating its impact on disease progression. Tumor budding, its effect on tumor stroma, and the implications for patient prognosis are investigated. The review also identifies conserved oncogenic signatures (COS) within CRC stroma and explores their potential as therapeutic targets. Lastly, the seed and soil hypothesis is employed to contextualize metastasis, accentuating the significance of both tumor cells and the surrounding stroma in metastatic propensity. This review highlights the intricate interdependence between CRC cells and their microenvironment, providing valuable insights into prospective therapeutic approaches targeting tumor-stroma interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Shakhpazyan
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Liudmila Mikhaleva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Arkady Bedzhanyan
- Department of Abdominal Surgery and Oncology II (Coloproctology and Uro-Gynecology), Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Zarina Gioeva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Nikolay Sadykhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Alexander Mikhalev
- Department of Hospital Surgery No. 2, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Dmitri Atiakshin
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Research Institute of Experimental Biology and Medicine, Burdenko Voronezh State Medical University, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Igor Buchwalow
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Institute for Hematopathology, 22547 Hamburg, Germany;
| | | | - Alexander Orekhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
- Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, 121096 Moscow, Russia
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Morgan A, Griffin M, Kameni L, Wan DC, Longaker MT, Norton JA. Medical Biology of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Cancer. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1044. [PMID: 37626931 PMCID: PMC10451924 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer with one of the lowest 5-year survival rates of all cancer types. A defining characteristic of pancreatic cancer is the existence of dense desmoplastic stroma that, when exposed to stimuli such as cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines, generate a tumor-promoting environment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activated during the progression of pancreatic cancer and are a crucial component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs are primarily pro-tumorigenic in their activated state and function as promoters of cancer invasion, proliferation, metastasis, and immune modulation. Aided by many signaling pathways, cytokines, and chemokines in the tumor microenvironment, CAFs can originate from many cell types including resident fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, pancreatic stellate cells, adipocytes, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and other cell types. CAFs are a highly heterogeneous cell type expressing a variety of surface markers and performing a wide range of tumor promoting and inhibiting functions. Single-cell transcriptomic analyses have revealed a high degree of specialization among CAFs. Some examples of CAF subpopulations include myofibrotic CAFs (myCAFs), which exhibit a matrix-producing contractile phenotype; inflammatory CAFs (iCAF) that are classified by their immunomodulating, secretory phenotype; and antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs), which have antigen-presenting capabilities and express Major Histocompatibility Complex II (MHC II). Over the last several years, various attempts have been undertaken to describe the mechanisms of CAF-tumor cell interaction, as well as CAF-immune cell interaction, that contribute to tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Although our understanding of CAF biology in cancer has steadily increased, the extent of CAFs heterogeneity and their role in the pathobiology of pancreatic cancer remains elusive. In this regard, it becomes increasingly evident that further research on CAFs in pancreatic cancer is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annah Morgan
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
| | - Michelle Griffin
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lionel Kameni
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
| | - Derrick C. Wan
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael T. Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Norton
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (A.M.); (M.G.); (L.K.); (D.C.W.); (M.T.L.)
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Shahvali S, Rahiman N, Jaafari MR, Arabi L. Targeting fibroblast activation protein (FAP): advances in CAR-T cell, antibody, and vaccine in cancer immunotherapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2041-2056. [PMID: 36840906 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01308-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a serine protease with dual enzymatic activities overexpressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in several tumor types, while its expression in healthy adult tissues is scarce. FAP overexpression on CAFs is associated with poor prognosis and plays an important role in tumor development, progression, and invasion. Therefore, FAP is considered a robust therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Here, we try to review and highlight the recent advances in immunotherapies for FAP targeting including the anti-FAP antibodies and immunoconjugates, FAP chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell, and various FAP vaccines in a preclinical and clinical setting. Subsequently, a discussion on the challenges and prospects associated with the development and translation of effective and safe therapies for targeting and depletion of FAP is provided. We proposed that new CAR-T cell engineering strategies and nanotechnology-based systems as well as advanced functional biomaterials can be used to improve the efficiency and safety of CAR-T cells and vaccines against FAP for more personalized immunotherapy. This review emphasizes the immune targeting of FAP as an emerging stromal candidate and one of the crucial elements in immunotherapy and shows the potential for improvement of current cancer therapy. A summary of different immunotherapy approaches to target fibroblast activation protein (FAP) for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Shahvali
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niloufar Rahiman
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Arabi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Li R, Liu C, Wan C, Liu T, Zhang R, Du J, Wang X, Jiao X, Gao R, Li B. A Targeted and pH-Responsive Nano-Graphene Oxide Nanoparticle Loaded with Doxorubicin for Synergetic Chemo-Photothermal Therapy of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:3309-3324. [PMID: 37351329 PMCID: PMC10284161 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s402249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a malignant disease with serious impacts on human health and quality of life worldwide. This disease is traditionally treated through a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, the efficacy of traditional treatments is hindered by systemic toxicity, limited therapeutic effects, and drug resistance. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a membrane-bound protease. Although FAP has limited expression in normal adult tissues, it is highly expressed in the tumor microenvironment of many solid cancers - a characteristic that makes it an ideal target for anticancer therapy. In this study, we constructed a nano-drug delivery system (NPF@DOX) targeting FAP to increase the therapeutic efficiency of synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy against OSCC. Methods We utilized PEGylated nano-graphene oxide (NGO) to link doxorubicin (DOX) and fluorescently-labeled, FAP-targeted peptide chains via hydrogen bonding and π-π bonding to enhance the targeting capability of NPF@DOX. The synthesis of NPF@DOX was analyzed using UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopy and its morphology using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, the drug uptake efficiency in vitro, photo-thermal properties, release performance, and anti-tumor effects of NPF@DOX were evaluated and further demonstrated in vivo. Results Data derived from FT-IR, UV-Vis, and TEM implied successful construction of the NPF@DOX nano-drug delivery system. Confocal laser scanning microscopy images and in vivo experiments demonstrated the targeting effects of FAP on OSCC. Furthermore, NPF@DOX exhibited a high photothermal conversion efficiency (52.48%) under near-infrared radiation. The thermogenic effect of NPF@DOX simultaneously promoted local release of DOX and apoptosis based on a pH-stimulated effect. Importantly, FAP-targeted NPF@DOX in combination with PTT showed better tumor suppression performance in vivo and in vitro than did either therapy individually. Conclusion NPF@DOX can precisely target OSCC, and combined treatment with chemical and photothermal therapy can improve the therapeutic outcomes of OSCC. This method serves as an efficient therapeutic strategy for the development of synergistic anti-tumor research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Li
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chen Liu
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaoqiong Wan
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Zhang
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Du
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaofeng Jiao
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruifang Gao
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Li
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People’s Republic of China
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Kalaei Z, Manafi-Farid R, Rashidi B, Kiani FK, Zarei A, Fathi M, Jadidi-Niaragh F. The Prognostic and therapeutic value and clinical implications of fibroblast activation protein-α as a novel biomarker in colorectal cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:139. [PMID: 37316886 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01151-y] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of contributing factors leading to the development of Colorectal Cancer (CRC), as the third fatal malignancy, is crucial. Today, the tumor microenvironment has been shown to play a key role in CRC progression. Fibroblast-Activation Protein-α (FAP) is a type II transmembrane cell surface proteinase expressed on the surface of cancer-associated fibroblasts in tumor stroma. As an enzyme, FAP has di- and endoprolylpeptidase, endoprotease, and gelatinase/collagenase activities in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). According to recent reports, FAP overexpression in CRC contributes to adverse clinical outcomes such as increased lymph node metastasis, tumor recurrence, and angiogenesis, as well as decreased overall survival. In this review, studies about the expression level of FAP and its associations with CRC patients' prognosis are reviewed. High expression levels of FAP and its association with clinicopathological factors have made as a potential target. In many studies, FAP has been evaluated as a therapeutic target and diagnostic factor into which the current review tries to provide a comprehensive insight. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kalaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Manafi-Farid
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bentolhoda Rashidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fariba Karoon Kiani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Asieh Zarei
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Fathi
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Crane JN, Graham DS, Mona CE, Nelson SD, Samiei A, Dawson DW, Dry SM, Masri MG, Crompton JG, Benz MR, Czernin J, Eilber FC, Graeber TG, Calais J, Federman NC. Fibroblast Activation Protein Expression in Sarcomas. Sarcoma 2023; 2023:2480493. [PMID: 37333052 PMCID: PMC10275689 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2480493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP) is highly expressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts in multiple epithelial cancers. The aim of this study was to characterize FAP expression in sarcomas to explore its potential utility as a diagnostic and therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker in sarcomas. Methods Available tissue samples from patients with bone or soft tissue tumors were identified at the University of California, Los Angeles. FAP expression was evaluated via immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tumor samples (n = 63), adjacent normal tissues (n = 30), and positive controls (n = 2) using semiquantitative systems for intensity (0 = negative; 1 = weak; 2 = moderate; and 3 = strong) and density (none, <25%, 25-75%; >75%) in stromal and tumor/nonstromal cells and using a qualitative overall score (not detected, low, medium, and high). Additionally, RNA sequencing data in publicly available databases were utilized to compare FAP expression in samples (n = 10,626) from various cancer types and evaluate the association between FAP expression and overall survival (OS) in sarcoma (n = 168). Results The majority of tumor samples had FAP IHC intensity scores ≥2 and density scores ≥25% for stromal cells (77.7%) and tumor cells (50.7%). All desmoid fibromatosis, myxofibrosarcoma, solitary fibrous tumor, and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma samples had medium or high FAP overall scores. Sarcomas were among cancer types with the highest mean FAP expression by RNA sequencing. There was no significant difference in OS in patients with sarcoma with low versus high FAP expression. Conclusion The majority of the sarcoma samples showed FAP expression by both stromal and tumor/nonstromal cells. Further investigation of FAP as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target in sarcomas is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn N. Crane
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1000 Welch Rd, Suite 300, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Danielle S. Graham
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Surgery, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christine E. Mona
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Scott D. Nelson
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alireza Samiei
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David W. Dawson
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Dry
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marwan G. Masri
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joseph G. Crompton
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Surgery, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthias R. Benz
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Johannes Czernin
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fritz C. Eilber
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Surgery, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Thomas G. Graeber
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeremie Calais
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Noah C. Federman
- University of California Los Angeles, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Alberti G, Arsuffi C, Pievani A, Salerno D, Mantegazza F, Dazzi F, Biondi A, Tettamanti S, Serafini M. Engineering tandem CD33xCD146 CAR CIK (cytokine-induced killer) cells to target the acute myeloid leukemia niche. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1192333. [PMID: 37304257 PMCID: PMC10247966 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1192333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), malignant stem cells hijack the normal bone marrow niche where they are largely protected from the current therapeutic approaches. Thus, eradicating these progenitors is the ultimate challenge in the treatment of this disease. Specifically, the development of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) against distinct mesenchymal stromal cell subpopulations involved in the maintenance of leukemic stem cells within the malignant bone marrow microenvironment could represent a new strategy to improve CAR T-cell therapy efficacy, which is still unsuccessful in AML. As a proof of concept, we generated a novel prototype of Tandem CAR, with one specificity directed against the leukemic cell marker CD33 and the other against the mesenchymal stromal cell marker CD146, demonstrating its capability of simultaneously targeting two different cell types in a 2D co-culture system. Interestingly, we could also observe an in vitro inhibition of CAR T cell functionality mediated by stromal cells, particularly in later effector functions, such as reduction of interferon-gamma and interleukin-2 release and impaired proliferation of the CAR+ effector Cytokine-Induced Killer (CIK) cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate the feasibility of a dual targeting model against two molecules, which are expressed on two different target cells, but also highlight the immunomodulatory effect on CAR CIK cells exerted by stromal cells, confirming that the niche could be an obstacle to the efficacy of CAR T cells. This aspect should be considered in the development of novel CAR T cell approaches directed against the AML bone marrow niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Alberti
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Corinne Arsuffi
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Pievani
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Domenico Salerno
- School of Medicine and Surgery, BioNanoMedicine Center NANOMIB, Universita di Milano-Bicocca, Vedano al Lambro (MB), Italy
| | - Francesco Mantegazza
- School of Medicine and Surgery, BioNanoMedicine Center NANOMIB, Universita di Milano-Bicocca, Vedano al Lambro (MB), Italy
| | - Francesco Dazzi
- School of Cardiovascular Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi Milano-Bicocca, Monza (MB), Italy
- Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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Jian HR, Niu WH, Xu ZS, Zhu JX, Pan X, Zhang YR, Lei P, Huang FQ, He Y. Establishment of FAP-overexpressing Cells for FAP-targeted Theranostics. Curr Med Sci 2023:10.1007/s11596-023-2740-7. [PMID: 37222958 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-023-2740-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) has been widely studied and exploited for its clinical applications. One of the difficulties in interpreting reports of FAP-targeted theranostics is due to the lack of accurate controls, making the results less specific and less confirmative. This study aimed to establish a pair of cell lines, in which one highly expresses FAP (HT1080-hFAP) and the other has no detectable FAP (HT1080-vec) as control, to accurately evaluate the specificity of the FAP-targeted theranostics in vitro and in vivo. METHODS The cell lines of the experimental group (HT1080-hFAP) and no-load group (HT1080-vec) were obtained by molecular construction of the recombinant plasmid pIRES-hFAP. The expression of hFAP in HT1080 cells was detected by PCR, Western blotting and flow cytometry. CCK-8, Matrigel transwell invasion assay, scratch test, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence were used to verify the physiological function of FAP. The activities of human dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP) and human endopeptidase (EP) were detected by ELISA in HT1080-hFAP cells. PET imaging was performed in bilateral tumor-bearing nude mice models to evaluate the specificity of FAP. RESULTS RT-PCR and Western blotting demonstrated the mRNA and protein expression of hFAP in HT1080-hFAP cells but not in HT1080-vec cells. Flow cytometry confirmed that nearly 95% of the HT1080-hFAP cells were FAP positive. The engineered hFAP on HT1080 cells had its ability to retain enzymatic activities and a variety of biological functions, including internalization, proliferation-, migration-, and invasion-promoting activities. The HT1080-hFAP xenografted tumors in nude mice bound and took up 68GA-FAPI-04 with superior selectivity. High image contrast and tumor-organ ratio were obtained by PET imaging. The HT1080-hFAP tumor retained the radiotracer for at least 60 min. CONCLUSION This pair of HT1080 cell lines was successfully established, making it feasible for accurate evaluation and visualization of therapeutic and diagnostic agents targeting the hFAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ru Jian
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, China
| | - Wen-Hao Niu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhuo-Shuo Xu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Xu Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Xin Pan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Yi-Rui Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ping Lei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Fa-Qing Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, China.
| | - Yong He
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, China.
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Das S, Valton J, Duchateau P, Poirot L. Stromal depletion by TALEN-edited universal hypoimmunogenic FAP-CAR T cells enables infiltration and anti-tumor cytotoxicity of tumor antigen-targeted CAR-T immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1172681. [PMID: 37251405 PMCID: PMC10213512 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172681] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy based on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T-cells has proven to be lifesaving for many cancer patients. However, its therapeutic efficacy has so far been restricted to only a few malignancies, with solid tumors proving to be especially recalcitrant to efficient therapy. Poor intra-tumor infiltration by T cells and T cell dysfunction due to a desmoplastic, immunosuppressive microenvironment are key barriers for CAR T-cell success against solid tumors. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical components of the tumor stroma, evolving specifically within the tumor microenvironment (TME) in response to tumor cell cues. The CAF secretome is a significant contributor to the extracellular matrix and a plethora of cytokines and growth factors that induce immune suppression. Together they form a physical and chemical barrier which induces a T cell-excluding 'cold' TME. CAF depletion in stroma rich solid tumors can thus provide an opportunity to convert immune evasive tumors susceptible to tumor-antigen CAR T-cell cytotoxicity. Using our TALEN-based gene editing platform we engineered non-alloreactive, immune evasive CAR T-cells (termed UCAR T-cells) targeting the unique CAF marker Fibroblast Activation Protein, alpha (FAP). In an orthotopic mouse model of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) composed of patient derived-CAFs and tumor cells, we demonstrate the efficacy of our engineered FAP UCAR T-cells in CAF depletion, reduction of desmoplasia and successful tumor infiltration. Furthermore, while previously resistant, pre-treatment with FAP UCAR T-cells now sensitized these tumors to Mesothelin (Meso) UCAR T-cell infiltration and anti-tumor cytotoxicity. Combination therapy of FAP UCAR, Meso UCAR T cells and the checkpoint inhibitor anti-PD-1 significantly reduced tumor burden and prolonged mice survival. Our study thus proposes a novel treatment paradigm for successful CAR T-cell immunotherapy against stroma-rich solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Das
- Cellectis Inc, New York, NY, United States
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Kessler L. Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor (FAPI)-PET Imaging in Sarcoma. PET Clin 2023:S1556-8598(23)00027-5. [PMID: 37117120 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpet.2023.03.001] [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: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Advances in histopathologic and molecular genetic subtyping of sarcoma will potentially allow identification of novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for specific subtypes, but a "pan-sarcoma" target is needed. This article provides an overview on expression of one potential candidate, fibroblast activation protein alpha in soft tissue and bone sarcoma, and the resulting application of 68Ga-FAPI as novel imaging probes in these rare tumor entities. Current preclinical and clinical data on 68Ga-FAPI-PET/CT in sarcomas are summarized. 68Ga-FAPI-PET-CT potentially offers important complementary information to be used in diagnostic work-up, assessment of therapy response, and prognostication of soft tissue and bone sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Kessler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Essen, Germany.
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Li Y, Xiang S, Pan W, Wang J, Zhan H, Liu S. Targeting tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy: Current research and future perspective. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1166860. [PMID: 37064113 PMCID: PMC10090519 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1166860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant tumors with increased incidence rate. The effect of surgery combined with chemoradiotherapy on survival of patients is unsatisfactory. New treatment strategy such as immunotherapy need to be investigated. The accumulation of desmoplastic stroma, infiltration of immunosuppressive cells including myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumor associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs), as well as tumor associated cytokine such as TGF-β, IL-10, IL-35, CCL5 and CXCL12 construct an immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer, which presents challenges for immunotherapy. In this review article, we explore the roles and mechanism of immunosuppressive cells and lymphocytes in establishing an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. In addition, immunotherapy strategies for pancreatic cancer based on tumor microenvironment including immune checkpoint inhibitors, targeting extracellular matrix (ECM), interfering with stromal cells or cytokines in TME, cancer vaccines and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are also discussed. It is necessary to identify an approach of immunotherapy in combination with other modalities to produce a synergistic effect with increased response rates in pancreatic cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuai Xiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjun Pan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Operating Room, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hanxiang Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Shanglong Liu, ; Hanxiang Zhan,
| | - Shanglong Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Shanglong Liu, ; Hanxiang Zhan,
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Antonova DV, Gnatenko DA, Kotova ES, Pleshkan VV, Kuzmich AI, Didych DA, Sverdlov ED, Alekseenko IV. Cell-specific expression of the FAP gene is regulated by enhancer elements. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1111511. [PMID: 36825204 PMCID: PMC9941708 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1111511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is an integral membrane serine protease that acts as both dipeptidyl peptidase and collagenase. In recent years, FAP has attracted considerable attention due to its specific upregulation in multiple types of tumor cell populations, including cancer cells in various cancer types, making FAP a potential target for therapy. However, relatively few papers pay attention to the mechanisms driving the cell-specific expression of the FAP gene. We found no correlation between the activities of the two FAP promoter variants (short and long) and the endogenous FAP mRNA expression level in several cell lines with different FAP expression levels. This suggested that other mechanisms may be responsible for specific transcriptional regulation of the FAP gene. We analyzed the distribution of known epigenetic and structural chromatin marks in FAP-positive and FAP-negative cell lines and identified two potential enhancer-like elements (E1 and E2) in the FAP gene locus. We confirmed the specific enrichment of H3K27ac in the putative enhancer regions in FAP-expressing cells. Both the elements exhibited enhancer activity independently of each other in the functional test by increasing the activity of the FAP promoter variants to a greater extent in FAP-expressing cell lines than in FAP-negative cell lines. The transcription factors AP-1, CEBPB, and STAT3 may be involved in FAP activation in the tumors. We hypothesized the existence of a positive feedback loop between FAP and STAT3, which may have implications for developing new approaches in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina V. Antonova
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry A. Gnatenko
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena S. Kotova
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, FSBI Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor V. Pleshkan
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia,Gene Oncotherapy Sector, Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey I. Kuzmich
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia,Gene Oncotherapy Sector, Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry A. Didych
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia,*Correspondence: Dmitry A. Didych,
| | - Eugene D. Sverdlov
- Kurchatov Center for Genome Research, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V. Alekseenko
- Gene Immunooncotherapy Group, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Department of Genomics and Postgenomic Technologies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia,Gene Oncotherapy Sector, Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia,Laboratory of Epigenetics, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Therapeutic Targeting of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in the Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020335. [PMID: 36672284 PMCID: PMC9856659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020335] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The most common lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with an overall 5-year survival rate of around 20% because NSCLC is a metastatic disease. A better understanding of the mechanism underlying lung cancer metastasis is therefore urgently needed. The tumor microenvironment involves different types of stromal cells and functions as key components in the progression of NSCLC. Through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), in which epithelial cells lose their polarity and acquire mesenchymal potential, cancer cells acquire metastatic abilities, as well as cancer stem-cell-like potential. We previously reported that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) interact with lung cancer cells to allow for the acquisition of malignancy and treatment resistance by paracrine loops via EMT signals in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, CAFs regulate the cytotoxic activity of immune cells via various cytokines and chemokines, creating a microenvironment of immune tolerance. Regulation of CAFs can therefore affect immune responses. Recent research has shown several roles of CAFs in NSCLC tumorigenesis, owing to their heterogeneity, so molecular markers of CAFs should be elucidated to better classify tumor-promoting subtypes and facilitate the establishment of CAF-specific targeted therapies. CAF-targeted cancer treatments may suppress EMT and regulate the niche of cancer stem cells and the immunosuppressive network and thus may prove useful for NSCLC treatment through multiple mechanisms.
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Gu L, Liao P, Liu H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in acute leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1022979. [PMID: 36601484 PMCID: PMC9806275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1022979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the prognosis for acute leukemia has greatly improved, treatment of relapsed/refractory acute leukemia (R/R AL) remains challenging. Recently, increasing evidence indicates that the bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) plays a crucial role in leukemogenesis and therapeutic resistance; therefore, BMM-targeted strategies should be a potent protocol for treating R/R AL. The targeting of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in solid tumors has received much attention and has achieved some progress, as CAFs might act as an organizer in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, over the last 10 years, attention has been drawn to the role of CAFs in the BMM. In spite of certain successes in preclinical and clinical studies, the heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs mean targeting them is a big challenge. Herein, we review the heterogeneity and roles of CAFs in the BMM and highlight the challenges and opportunities associated with acute leukemia therapies that involve the targeting of CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,The Joint Laboratory for Lung Development and Related Diseases of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University and School of Life Sciences of Fudan University, West China Institute of Women and Children’s Health, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Ling Gu, ; Ping Liao, ; Hanmin Liu,
| | - Ping Liao
- Calcium Signalling Laboratory, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore,Academic & Clinical Development, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore,Health and Social Sciences, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore, Singapore,*Correspondence: Ling Gu, ; Ping Liao, ; Hanmin Liu,
| | - Hanmin Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,The Joint Laboratory for Lung Development and Related Diseases of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University and School of Life Sciences of Fudan University, West China Institute of Women and Children’s Health, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Sichuan Birth Defects Clinical Research Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Ling Gu, ; Ping Liao, ; Hanmin Liu,
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49
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Lee IK, Noguera-Ortega E, Xiao Z, Todd L, Scholler J, Song D, Liousia M, Lohith K, Xu K, Edwards KJ, Farwell MD, June CH, Albelda SM, Puré E, Sellmyer MA. Monitoring Therapeutic Response to Anti-FAP CAR T Cells Using [18F]AlF-FAPI-74. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:5330-5342. [PMID: 35972732 PMCID: PMC9771904 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-1379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy against hematologic malignancies, successful targeting of solid tumors with CAR T cells has been limited by a lack of durable responses and reports of toxicities. Our understanding of the limited therapeutic efficacy in solid tumors could be improved with quantitative tools that allow characterization of CAR T-targeted antigens in tumors and accurate monitoring of response. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used a radiolabeled FAP inhibitor (FAPI) [18F]AlF-FAPI-74 probe to complement ongoing efforts to develop and optimize FAP CAR T cells. The selectivity of the radiotracer for FAP was characterized in vitro, and its ability to monitor changes in FAP expression was evaluated using rodent models of lung cancer. RESULTS [18F]AlF-FAPI-74 showed selective retention in FAP+ cells in vitro, with effective blocking of the uptake in presence of unlabeled FAPI. In vivo, [18F]AlF-FAPI-74 was able to detect FAP expression on tumor cells as well as FAP+ stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment with a high target-to-background ratio. We further demonstrated the utility of the tracer to monitor changes in FAP expression following FAP CAR T-cell therapy, and the PET imaging findings showed a robust correlation with ex vivo analyses. CONCLUSIONS This noninvasive imaging approach to interrogate the tumor microenvironment represents an innovative pairing of a diagnostic PET probe with solid tumor CAR T-cell therapy and has the potential to serve as a predictive and pharmacodynamic response biomarker for FAP as well as other stroma-targeted therapies. A PET imaging approach targeting FAP expressed on activated fibroblasts of the tumor stroma has the potential to predict and monitor therapeutic response to FAP-targeted CAR T-cell therapy. See related commentary by Weber et al., p. 5241.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris K. Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Estela Noguera-Ortega
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Zebin Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pensnsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Leslie Todd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pensnsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John Scholler
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Decheng Song
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maria Liousia
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Katheryn Lohith
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kexiang Xu
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kimberly J. Edwards
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael D. Farwell
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carl H. June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven M. Albelda
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA.,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ellen Puré
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pensnsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mark A. Sellmyer
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,The Deparment of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Correspondence should be addressed to: Mark A. Sellmyer () Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 813A Stellar, Chance Labs, 422 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6059, Phone: 215-573-3212
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Jenkins BH, Buckingham JF, Hanley CJ, Thomas GJ. Targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts: Challenges, opportunities and future directions. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108231. [PMID: 35718294 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a common cell in the tumour microenvironment with diverse tumour-promoting functions. Their presence in tumours is commonly associated with poor prognosis making them attractive therapeutic targets, particularly in the context of immunotherapy where CAFs have been shown to promote resistance to checkpoint blockade. Previous attempts to inhibit CAFs clinically have not been successful, however, in part due to a lack of understanding of CAF heterogeneity and function, with some fibroblast populations potentially being tumour suppressive. Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies have advanced our understanding of fibroblast phenotypes in normal tissues and cancers, allowing for a more precise characterisation of CAF subsets and providing opportunities to develop new therapies. Here we review recent advances in the field, focusing on the evolving area of therapeutic CAF targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Jenkins
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | | | - Gareth J Thomas
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK.
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