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Zhou M, Chen B, Lu C, Yang J, Liu P, Wang X, Hu S. ImmunoPET imaging of LAG-3 expression in tumor microenvironment with 68Ga-labelled cyclic peptides tracers: from bench to bedside. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009153. [PMID: 39060024 PMCID: PMC11284836 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3) has been considered as the next generation of immune checkpoint and a promising prognostic biomarker of immunotherapy. As with programmed cell death protein-1/programmed death-ligand 1 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 inhibitors, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging strategies could benefit the development of clinical decision-making of LAG-3-related therapy. In this study, we developed and validated 68Ga-labeled cyclic peptides tracers for PET imaging of LAG-3 expression in bench-to-bedside studies. METHODS A series of LAG-3-targeted cyclic peptides were modified and radiolabeled with 68GaCl3 and evaluated their affinity and specificity, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and radiation dosimetry in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, hu-PBL-SCID (PBL) mice models were constructed to validate the capacity of [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 for mapping of LAG-3+ lymphocytes infiltrates using longitudinal PET imaging. Lastly, [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 was translated into the first-in-human studies to assess its safety, biodistribution and potential for imaging of LAG-3 expression. RESULTS A series of cyclic peptides targeting LAG-3 were employed as lead compounds to design and develop 68Ga-labeled PET tracers. In vitro binding assays showed higher affinity and specificity of [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 in Chinese hamster ovary-human LAG-3 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In vivo PET imaging demonstrated better imaging capacity of [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 with a higher tumor uptake of 1.35±0.33 per cent injected dose per gram and tumor-to-muscle ratio of 17.18±3.20 at 60 min post-injection. Furthermore, [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 could detect the LAG-3+ lymphocyte infiltrates in spleen, lung and salivary gland of PBL mice. In patients with melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer, primary lesions with modest tumor uptake were observed in [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 PET, as compared with that of [18F]FDG PET. More importantly, [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 delineated the heterogeneity of LAG-3 expression within large tumors. CONCLUSION These findings consolidated that [68Ga]Ga-CC09-1 is a promising PET tracer for quantifying the LAG-3 expression in tumor microenvironment, indicating its potential as a companion diagnostic for patients stratification and therapeutic response monitoring in anti-LAG-3 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bei Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chenxi Lu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jinhui Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Nanotechnology of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuo Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Nanotechnology of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Yuan P, Long Y, Wei N, Wang Y, Zhu Z, Han J, Jiang D, Lan X, Gai Y. Peptide-based PET tracer targeting LAG-3 for evaluating the efficacy of immunotherapy in melanoma. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009010. [PMID: 39043603 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3) is expressed on activated immune cells and has emerged as a promising target for immune checkpoints blockade. However, conflicting findings have been reported regarding the association between LAG-3 expression in tumors and patient prognosis, indicating the need for further investigation into the significance of LAG-3 expression levels in tumor therapies. In this study, 68Ga-NOTA-XH05, a novel peptide-based positron emission tomography (PET) tracer targeting LAG-3, was constructed to non-invasively detect LAG-3 expression in melanoma after CpG oligonucleotide (CpG) treatment and explore the relationship between LAG-3 expression and therapeutic effect. METHODS The tracer 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 was identified by high-performance liquid chromatography after being prepared and purified. Cell uptake and blocking essays were performed to verify the specificity of the tracer in vitro. The expression of LAG-3 in B16-F10 subcutaneous tumors was monitored by flow cytometry, and its correlation with the tracer uptake was analyzed to evaluate the tracer specificity. PET imaging and biodistribution studies were conducted after CpG treatment of unilateral or bilateral B16-F10 subcutaneous tumor models to assess the ability of 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 in monitoring immunotherapy efficacy and the abscopal effect of CpG. RESULTS Following purification, 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 exhibited high radiochemical purity and specificity. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a positive correlation between LAG-3 expression in tumors and the uptake of 68Ga-NOTA-XH05. In B16-F10 bearing mice treated with CpG, PET imaging using 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 demonstrated a higher tumor to blood ratio (TBR) compared with the control group. Furthermore, TBR values obtained from CpG-treated mice allowed for differentiation between responders and non-responders. In a bilateral subcutaneous tumor model where only right-sided tumors were treated with intratumoral injection of CpG, TBR values of left-sided tumors were significantly higher than those in the control group, indicating that 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 could effectively monitor the systemic effect of local CpG injection. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the detection capability of 68Ga-NOTA-XH05 in assessing LAG-3 expression levels within tumors and evaluating response to immunotherapy, thereby suggesting promising clinical translational prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peizhe Yuan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Long
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Nannan Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ziyang Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Dawei Jiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoli Lan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongkang Gai
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, the Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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Cong Y, Devoogdt N, Lambin P, Dubois LJ, Yaromina A. Promising Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches Based on VHHs for Cancer Management. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:371. [PMID: 38254860 PMCID: PMC10814765 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020371] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the distinctive structure of heavy chain-only antibodies in species belonging to the Camelidae family has elicited significant interest in their variable antigen binding domain (VHH) and gained attention for various applications, such as cancer diagnosis and treatment. This article presents an overview of the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of VHHs as compared to conventional antibodies, and their usage in diverse applications. The singular properties of VHHs are explained, and several strategies that can augment their utility are outlined. The preclinical studies illustrating the diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy of distinct VHHs in diverse formats against solid cancers are summarized, and an overview of the clinical trials assessing VHH-based agents in oncology is provided. These investigations demonstrate the enormous potential of VHHs for medical research and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cong
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Philippe Lambin
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ludwig J. Dubois
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Ala Yaromina
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
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Quan Z, Han Z, Yang Y, Wang J, Wang H, Yang L, A R, Hu X, Wang J, Li X, Li X, Yu H, Chen W, Wang K, Sun X. Noninvasive Monitoring of Immunotherapy in Lung Cancer by Lymphocyte Activation Gene 3 PET Imaging of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes. J Nucl Med 2024; 65:25-32. [PMID: 37973186 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.266002] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Although immunotherapy has revolutionized the entire cancer treatment landscape, small fractions of patients respond to immunotherapy. Early identification of responders may improve patient management during immunotherapy. In this study, we evaluated a PET approach for monitoring immunotherapy in lung cancer by imaging the upregulation of lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3)-expressing (LAG-3+) tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Methods: We synthesized a LAG-3-targeted molecular imaging probe, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 and performed a series of in vitro and in vivo assays to test its specificity. Next, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET was used to monitor immunotherapy in murine lung cancer-bearing mice and in humanized mouse models for assessing clinical translational potential, with confirmation by immunostaining and flow cytometry analysis. Results: [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET could noninvasively detect intertumoral differences in LAG-3+ TIL levels in different tumor models. Importantly, in Lewis lung carcinoma tumor models treated with an agonist of a stimulator of interferon genes, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET also detected an immunophenotyping transition of the tumor from "cold" to "hot" before changes in tumor size. Meanwhile, animals carrying "hot" tumor showed more significant tumor inhibition and longer survival than those carrying "cold" tumor. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET also showed markedly higher tumor uptake in immune system-humanized mice carrying human non-small cell lung cancer than immunodeficient models. Conclusion: [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET could be used to noninvasively monitor the early response to immunotherapy by imaging LAG-3+ TILs in lung cancer. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-C25 PET also exhibited excellent translational potential, with great significance for the precise management of lung cancer patients receiving immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Quan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zhaoguo Han
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center (BRIC), The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiannan Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China; and
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Rong A
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xinxin Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaoqian Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Laboratory of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xilin Sun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China;
- NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRC) of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Frecot DI, Froehlich T, Rothbauer U. 30 years of nanobodies - an ongoing success story of small binders in biological research. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261395. [PMID: 37937477 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261395] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A milestone in the field of recombinant binding molecules was achieved 30 years ago with the discovery of single-domain antibodies from which antigen-binding variable domains, better known as nanobodies (Nbs), can be derived. Being only one tenth the size of conventional antibodies, Nbs feature high affinity and specificity, while being highly stable and soluble. In addition, they display accessibility to cryptic sites, low off-target accumulation and deep tissue penetration. Efficient selection methods, such as (semi-)synthetic/naïve or immunized cDNA libraries and display technologies, have facilitated the isolation of Nbs against diverse targets, and their single-gene format enables easy functionalization and high-yield production. This Review highlights recent advances in Nb applications in various areas of biological research, including structural biology, proteomics and high-resolution and in vivo imaging. In addition, we provide insights into intracellular applications of Nbs, such as live-cell imaging, biosensors and targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree I Frecot
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstrasse 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Theresa Froehlich
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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Zeven K, De Groof TW, Ceuppens H, Awad RM, Ertveldt T, de Mey W, Meeus F, Raes G, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. Development and evaluation of nanobody tracers for noninvasive nuclear imaging of the immune-checkpoint TIGIT. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268900. [PMID: 37799715 PMCID: PMC10548220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268900] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction T cell Ig and ITIM domain receptor (TIGIT) is a next-generation immune checkpoint predominantly expressed on activated T cells and NK cells, exhibiting an unfavorable prognostic association with various malignancies. Despite the emergence of multiple TIGIT-blocking agents entering clinical trials, only a fraction of patients responded positively to anti-TIGIT therapy. Consequently, an urgent demand arises for noninvasive techniques to quantify and monitor TIGIT expression, facilitating patient stratification and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Small antigen binding moieties such as nanobodies, are promising candidates for such tracer development. Methods We generated a panel of anti-human or anti-mouse TIGIT nanobodies from immunized llamas. In addition, we designed a single-chain variable fragment derived from the clinically tested monoclonal antibody Vibostolimab targeting TIGIT, and assessed its performance alongside the nanobodies. In vitro characterization studies were performed, including binding ability and affinity to cell expressed or recombinant TIGIT. After Technetium-99m labeling, the nanobodies and the single-chain variable fragment were evaluated in vivo for their ability to detect TIGIT expression using SPECT/CT imaging, followed by ex vivo biodistribution analysis. Results Nine nanobodies were selected for binding to recombinant and cell expressed TIGIT with low sub-nanomolar affinities and are thermostable. A six-fold higher uptake in TIGIT-overexpressing tumor was demonstrated one hour post- injection with Technetium-99m labeled nanobodies compared to an irrelevant control nanobody. Though the single-chain variable fragment exhibited superior binding to TIGIT-expressing peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro, its in vivo behavior yielded lower tumor-to-background ratios at one hour post- injection, indicating that nanobodies are better suited for in vivo imaging than the single-chain variable fragment. Despite the good affinity, high specificity and on-target uptake in mice in this setting, imaging of TIGIT expression on tumor- infiltrating lymphocytes within MC38 tumors remained elusive. This is likely due to the low expression levels of TIGIT in this model. Discussion The excellent affinity, high specificity and rapid on-target uptake in mice bearing TIGIT- overexpressing tumors showed the promising diagnostic potential of nanobodies to noninvasively image high TIGIT expression within the tumor. These findings hold promise for clinical translation to aid patient selection and improve therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katty Zeven
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wout de Mey
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Song R, Liu F, Ping Y, Zhang Y, Wang L. Potential non-invasive biomarkers in tumor immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: response and prognosis prediction. Biomark Res 2023; 11:57. [PMID: 37268978 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00498-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have dramatically enhanced the treatment outcomes for diverse malignancies. Yet, only 15-60% of patients respond significantly. Therefore, accurate responder identification and timely ICI administration are critical issues in tumor ICI therapy. Recent rapid developments at the intersection of oncology, immunology, biology, and computer science have provided an abundance of predictive biomarkers for ICI efficacy. These biomarkers can be invasive or non-invasive, depending on the specific sample collection method. Compared with invasive markers, a host of non-invasive markers have been confirmed to have superior availability and accuracy in ICI efficacy prediction. Considering the outstanding advantages of dynamic monitoring of the immunotherapy response and the potential for widespread clinical application, we review the recent research in this field with the aim of contributing to the identification of patients who may derive the greatest benefit from ICI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixia Song
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Fengsen Liu
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yu Ping
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Liping Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Miedema IHC, Huisman MC, Zwezerijnen GJC, Grempler R, Pitarch AP, Thiele A, Hesse R, Elgadi M, Peltzer A, Vugts DJ, van Dongen GAMS, de Gruijl TD, Menke-van der Houven van Oordt CW, Bahce I. 89Zr-immuno-PET using the anti-LAG-3 tracer [ 89Zr]Zr-BI 754111: demonstrating target specific binding in NSCLC and HNSCC. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2023; 50:2068-2080. [PMID: 36859619 PMCID: PMC10199858 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-023-06164-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) directed therapies demonstrate promising clinical anti-cancer activity, only a subset of patients seems to benefit and predictive biomarkers are lacking. Here, we explored the potential use of the anti-LAG-3 antibody tracer [89Zr]Zr-BI 754111 as a predictive imaging biomarker and investigated its target specific uptake as well as the correlation of its tumor uptake and the tumor immune infiltration. METHODS Patients with head and neck (N = 2) or lung cancer (N = 4) were included in an imaging substudy of a phase 1 trial with BI 754091 (anti-PD-1) and BI 754111 (anti-LAG-3). After baseline tumor biopsy and [18F]FDG-PET, patients were given 240 mg of BI 754091, followed 8 days later by administration of [89Zr]Zr-BI 754111 (37 MBq, 4 mg). PET scans were performed 2 h, 96 h, and 144 h post-injection. To investigate target specificity, a second tracer administration was given two weeks later, this time with pre-administration of 40 (N = 3) or 600 mg (N = 3) unlabeled BI 754111, followed by PET scans at 96 h and 144 h post-injection. Tumor immune cell infiltration was assessed by immunohistochemistry and RNA sequencing. RESULTS Tracer uptake in tumors was clearly visible at the 4-mg mass dose (tumor-to-plasma ratio 1.63 [IQR 0.37-2.89]) and could be saturated by increasing mass doses (44 mg: 0.67 [IQR 0.50-0.85]; 604 mg: 0.56 [IQR 0.42-0.75]), demonstrating target specificity. Tumor uptake correlated to immune cell-derived RNA signatures. CONCLUSIONS [89Zr]Zr-BI-754111 PET imaging shows favorable technical and biological characteristics for developing a potential predictive imaging biomarker for LAG-3-directed therapies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03780725. Registered 19 December 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris H C Miedema
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc C Huisman
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gerben J C Zwezerijnen
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rolf Grempler
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT, 06877, USA
| | - Alejandro Perez Pitarch
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Strasse 65, 88400, Biberach and der Riss, Germany
| | - Andrea Thiele
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Strasse 65, 88400, Biberach and der Riss, Germany
| | - Raphael Hesse
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Strasse 65, 88400, Biberach and der Riss, Germany
| | - Mabrouk Elgadi
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT, 06877, USA
| | - Alexander Peltzer
- Department of Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Strasse 65, 88400, Biberach and der Riss, Germany
| | - Danielle J Vugts
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guus A M S van Dongen
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tanja D de Gruijl
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Biology and Immunology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1018 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - C Willemien Menke-van der Houven van Oordt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Idris Bahce
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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9
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Awad RM, Breckpot K. Novel technologies for applying immune checkpoint blockers. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 382:1-101. [PMID: 38225100 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells develop several ways to subdue the immune system among others via upregulation of inhibitory immune checkpoint (ICP) proteins. These ICPs paralyze immune effector cells and thereby enable unfettered tumor growth. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that block ICPs can prevent immune exhaustion. Due to their outstanding effects, mAbs revolutionized the field of cancer immunotherapy. However, current ICP therapy regimens suffer from issues related to systemic administration of mAbs, including the onset of immune related adverse events, poor pharmacokinetics, limited tumor accessibility and immunogenicity. These drawbacks and new insights on spatiality prompted the exploration of novel administration routes for mAbs for instance peritumoral delivery. Moreover, novel ICP drug classes that are adept to novel delivery technologies were developed to circumvent the drawbacks of mAbs. We therefore review the state-of-the-art and novel delivery strategies of ICP drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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10
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Gao Y, Luo Q, Sun Z, Gao H, Yu Y, Sun Y, Ma X, Han C, Shi J, Wang F. Implication of 99mTc-sum IL-2 SPECT/CT in immunotherapy by imaging of tumor-infiltrating T cells. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-005925. [PMID: 36858461 PMCID: PMC9980373 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and adoptive T cell transfer (ACT) therapy have achieved impressive clinical outcomes, majority of patients do not respond to immunotherapy. Tumor-infiltrating T cells, a critical factor to immunotherapy, is dynamically changing. Therefore, a reliable real-time in vivo imaging system for tumor-infiltrating T cells, but not immunohistochemical analyses, will be more valuable to predict response and guide immunotherapy. In this study, we developed a new SPECT/CT imaging probe 99mTc-sum IL-2 targeting the IL-2Rβ/IL-2Rγ (CD122/CD132) receptor on tumor-infiltrating T cells, and evaluated its application in predicting the immune response to anti-PD-L1 (αPD-L1) therapy as well as tracking infused T cells in ACT therapy. METHODS The binding affinity of the super mutated IL-2 (sum IL-2) in various T cell subtypes was measured. Sum IL-2 was subsequently labeled with 99mTc through Sortase-A mediated site-specific transpeptidation. SPECT/CT imaging and biodistribution studies of 99mTc-sum IL-2 were performed in a MC38 mouse model. Wild type IL-2 (IL-2) was used as control in the above studies. Finally, we evaluated 99mTc-sum IL-2 SPECT/CT for the detection of tumor-infiltrating T cells in the context of αPD-L1 immunotherapy and ACT therapy. RESULTS Sum IL-2 preferentially bound to CD8+ T cells, especially activated CD8+ T cells, while IL-2 showed biased binding to Treg cells. As a result, 99mTc-sum IL-2 could detect tumor-infiltrating T cells. In the MC38 tumor model, SPECT/CT imaging showed the increased tumor uptake of 99mTc-sum IL-2 after αPD-L1 treatment, suggesting that the treatment significantly increased tumor-infiltrating T cells, resulting in a correspondingly significant curative effect. In addition, 99mTc-sum IL-2 SPECT/CT could also track the infiltration of antigen-specific cytotoxic CD8+ T cells during ACT therapy. CONCLUSION 99mTc-sum IL-2 has great clinical potential for non-invasive and specific SPECT/CT imaging of tumor-infiltrating T cells as well as for timely prediction and evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of ICB and ACT therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Luo
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhichen Sun
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hannan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yining Sun
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanhui Han
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Basic Medical Sciences, International Cancer Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiyun Shi
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Proteinand Peptide Pharmaceuticals, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China .,Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Basic Medical Sciences, International Cancer Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
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11
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Meng Z, Niu X, Xia L, Chen Y, Wang Z, Wang H, Ji P, Cui W, Wang Y, Lu S. A 3D Ex Vivo Tumor-Immune Coculture System Mimicking In Vivo Tumor Environmental Stress on CD8+ T Cells Exhaustion. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023:e2200264. [PMID: 36658782 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Dissection of exhaustion trajectories of immune cells under tumor selection pressure in the tumor microenvironment (TME) elucidates the underlying machinery in anti-tumor immunity, which still lacks easy-to-use models to decipher. Herein, gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) based 3D hydrogel microspheroids are constructed with non-immunogenicity and controllable macroporous structure to establish a tumor-immune cell coculture (3D-HyGTIC) system. In 3D-HyGTIC system, when immune cells embarked, stepwise up-regulation of main immune checkpoints (ICs) molecules is observed with compromised cytokine production in CD8+ T cells, the trajectory of which is in lineage correlation with in vivo grafted tumors. Reinvigoration of CD8+ T cells is more obvious with the addition of an anti-PD-1 regimen at the early time point, which is recapitulated during the coculture of patient-derived tumor fragments (PDTF) and autologous T cells. Moreover, the upregulation of LAG-3 on CD8+ T cells after anti-PD-1 treatment is uncovered. Sequential addition of anti-LAG-3 successfully rescues the otherwise failed reactivation of CD8+ T cells. Therefore, the 3D-HyGTIC system is not only inclined to mimic the early differentiation trajectories of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells but also may facilitate an evaluation of the efficacy of IC blockades and guide the designing of combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouwenli Meng
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Xiaomin Niu
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Liliang Xia
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Yingying Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin Second Road, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Ping Ji
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin Second Road, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Ying Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Shun Lu
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
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12
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Li H, Luo Q, Zhang H, Ma X, Gu Z, Gong Q, Luo K. Nanomedicine embraces cancer radio-immunotherapy: mechanism, design, recent advances, and clinical translation. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:47-96. [PMID: 36427082 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00437b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer radio-immunotherapy, integrating external/internal radiation therapy with immuno-oncology treatments, emerges in the current management of cancer. A growing number of pre-clinical studies and clinical trials have recently validated the synergistic antitumor effect of radio-immunotherapy, far beyond the "abscopal effect", but it suffers from a low response rate and toxicity issues. To this end, nanomedicines with an optimized design have been introduced to improve cancer radio-immunotherapy. Specifically, these nanomedicines are elegantly prepared by incorporating tumor antigens, immuno- or radio-regulators, or biomarker-specific imaging agents into the corresponding optimized nanoformulations. Moreover, they contribute to inducing various biological effects, such as generating in situ vaccination, promoting immunogenic cell death, overcoming radiation resistance, reversing immunosuppression, as well as pre-stratifying patients and assessing therapeutic response or therapy-induced toxicity. Overall, this review aims to provide a comprehensive landscape of nanomedicine-assisted radio-immunotherapy. The underlying working principles and the corresponding design strategies for these nanomedicines are elaborated by following the concept of "from bench to clinic". Their state-of-the-art applications, concerns over their clinical translation, along with perspectives are covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haonan Li
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Qiang Luo
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Hu Zhang
- Amgen Bioprocessing Centre, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China. .,Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China. .,Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
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13
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Lau D, Corrie PG, Gallagher FA. MRI techniques for immunotherapy monitoring. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004708. [PMID: 36122963 PMCID: PMC9486399 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
MRI is a widely available clinical tool for cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring. MRI provides excellent soft tissue imaging, using a wide range of contrast mechanisms, and can non-invasively detect tissue metabolites. These approaches can be used to distinguish cancer from normal tissues, to stratify tumor aggressiveness, and to identify changes within both the tumor and its microenvironment in response to therapy. In this review, the role of MRI in immunotherapy monitoring will be discussed and how it could be utilized in the future to address some of the unique clinical questions that arise from immunotherapy. For example, MRI could play a role in identifying pseudoprogression, mixed response, T cell infiltration, cell tracking, and some of the characteristic immune-related adverse events associated with these agents. The factors to be considered when developing MRI imaging biomarkers for immunotherapy will be reviewed. Finally, the advantages and limitations of each approach will be discussed, as well as the challenges for future clinical translation into routine clinical care. Given the increasing use of immunotherapy in a wide range of cancers and the ability of MRI to detect the microstructural and functional changes associated with successful response to immunotherapy, the technique has great potential for more widespread and routine use in the future for these applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Lau
- Centre for Immuno-Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Pippa G Corrie
- Department of Oncology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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14
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Ge S, Jia T, Li J, Zhang B, Sang S, Deng S. Molecular imaging of immune checkpoints in oncology: Current and future applications. Cancer Lett 2022; 548:215896. [PMID: 36041658 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint (IC) blockade therapy has become the first-line treatment for various cancers. However, the low response rate and acquired drug resistance severely restrict the clinical application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Nuclide molecular imaging of ICs can provide non-invasive and whole-body visualization of in vivo IC dynamic biodistribution. Therefore, molecular imaging of ICs can predict and monitor responses to ICIs as a complementary tool to existing immunohistochemical techniques. Herein, we outlined the current status and recent advances in molecular imaging of the "first-generation" and "next-generation" ICs in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shushan Ge
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Technology Medical Transformation, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, 621099, China
| | - Tongtong Jia
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Jihui Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Shibiao Sang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Shengming Deng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Technology Medical Transformation, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, 621099, China.
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15
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Awad RM, Meeus F, Ceuppens H, Ertveldt T, Hanssens H, Lecocq Q, Mateusiak L, Zeven K, Valenta H, De Groof TWM, De Vlaeminck Y, Krasniqi A, De Veirman K, Goyvaerts C, D'Huyvetter M, Hernot S, Devoogdt N, Breckpot K. Emerging applications of nanobodies in cancer therapy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 369:143-199. [PMID: 35777863 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a heterogeneous disease, requiring treatment tailored to the unique phenotype of the patient's tumor. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and variants thereof have enabled targeted therapies to selectively target cancer cells. Cancer cell-specific mAbs have been used for image-guided surgery and targeted delivery of radionuclides or toxic agents, improving classical treatment strategies. Cancer cell-specific mAbs can further inhibit tumor cell growth or can stimulate immune-mediated destruction of cancer cells, a feature that has also been achieved through mAb-mediated manipulation of immune cells and pathways. Drawbacks of mAbs and their variants, together with the discovery of camelid heavy chain-only antibodies and the many advantageous features of their variable domains, referred to as VHHs, single domain antibodies or nanobodies (Nbs), resulted in the exploration of Nbs as an alternative targeting moiety. We therefore review the state-of-the-art as well as novel exploitation strategies of Nbs for targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Heleen Hanssens
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Quentin Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lukasz Mateusiak
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katty Zeven
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hana Valenta
- Lab for Nanobiology, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Timo W M De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmet Krasniqi
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Laboratory for Hematology and Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthias D'Huyvetter
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Hernot
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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16
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Lauwerys L, Smits E, Van den Wyngaert T, Elvas F. Radionuclide Imaging of Cytotoxic Immune Cell Responses to Anti-Cancer Immunotherapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051074. [PMID: 35625811 PMCID: PMC9139020 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is an evolving and promising cancer treatment that takes advantage of the body’s immune system to yield effective tumor elimination. Importantly, immunotherapy has changed the treatment landscape for many cancers, resulting in remarkable tumor responses and improvements in patient survival. However, despite impressive tumor effects and extended patient survival, only a small proportion of patients respond, and others can develop immune-related adverse events associated with these therapies, which are associated with considerable costs. Therefore, strategies to increase the proportion of patients gaining a benefit from these treatments and/or increasing the durability of immune-mediated tumor response are still urgently needed. Currently, measurement of blood or tissue biomarkers has demonstrated sampling limitations, due to intrinsic tumor heterogeneity and the latter being invasive. In addition, the unique response patterns of these therapies are not adequately captured by conventional imaging modalities. Consequently, non-invasive, sensitive, and quantitative molecular imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) using specific radiotracers, have been increasingly used for longitudinal whole-body monitoring of immune responses. Immunotherapies rely on the effector function of CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells (NK) at tumor lesions; therefore, the monitoring of these cytotoxic immune cells is of value for therapy response assessment. Different immune cell targets have been investigated as surrogate markers of response to immunotherapy, which motivated the development of multiple imaging agents. In this review, the targets and radiotracers being investigated for monitoring the functional status of immune effector cells are summarized, and their use for imaging of immune-related responses are reviewed along their limitations and pitfalls, of which multiple have already been translated to the clinic. Finally, emerging effector immune cell imaging strategies and future directions are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Lauwerys
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.L.); (T.V.d.W.)
| | - Evelien Smits
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
- Center for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, B-2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Tim Van den Wyngaert
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.L.); (T.V.d.W.)
- Nuclear Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, B-2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Filipe Elvas
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.L.); (T.V.d.W.)
- Correspondence:
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17
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Arnouk S, De Groof TW, Van Ginderachter JA. Imaging and therapeutic targeting of the tumor immune microenvironment with biologics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 184:114239. [PMID: 35351469 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114239] [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: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The important role of tumor microenvironmental elements in determining tumor progression and metastasis has been firmly established. In particular, the presence and activity profile of tumor-infiltrating immune cells may be associated with the outcome of the disease and may predict responsiveness to (immuno)therapy. Indeed, while some immune cell types, such as macrophages, support cancer cell outgrowth and mediate therapy resistance, the presence of activated CD8+ T cells is usually indicative of a better prognosis. It is therefore of the utmost interest to obtain a full picture of the immune infiltrate in tumors, either as a prognostic test, as a way to stratify patients to maximize therapeutic success, or as therapy follow-up. Hence, the non-invasive imaging of these cells is highly warranted, with biologics being prime candidates to achieve this goal.
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18
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Maruhashi T, Sugiura D, Okazaki IM, Shimizu K, Maeda TK, Ikubo J, Yoshikawa H, Maenaka K, Ishimaru N, Kosako H, Takemoto T, Okazaki T. Binding of LAG-3 to stable peptide-MHC class II limits T cell function and suppresses autoimmunity and anti-cancer immunity. Immunity 2022; 55:912-924.e8. [PMID: 35413245 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) is a potent inhibitory co-receptor; yet, its functional ligand remains elusive, with distinct potential ligands identified. Here, we investigated the relative contribution of potential ligands, stable peptide-MHC class II complexes (pMHCII) and fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1), to LAG-3 activity in vitro and in vivo. Binding of LAG-3 to stable pMHCII but not to FGL1 induced T cell suppression in vitro. Consistently, LAG-3 mutants lacking FGL1-binding capacity but not those lacking stable pMHCII-binding capacity retained suppressive activity in vitro. Accordingly, targeted disruption of stable pMHCII- but not FGL1-binding capacity of LAG-3 in NOD mice recapitulated diabetes exacerbation by LAG-3 deficiency. Additionally, the loss of stable pMHCII-binding capacity of LAG-3 augmented anti-cancer immunity comparably with LAG-3 deficiency in C57BL/6 mice. These results identify stable pMHCII as a functional ligand of LAG-3 both in autoimmunity and anti-cancer immunity. Thus, stable pMHCII-LAG-3 interaction is a potential therapeutic target in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Maruhashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sugiura
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Il-Mi Okazaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan; Division of Immune Regulation, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kenji Shimizu
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Takeo K Maeda
- Division of Immune Regulation, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Jun Ikubo
- Division of Immune Regulation, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Harunori Yoshikawa
- Division of Cell Signaling, Fujii Memorial Institute of Medical Sciences, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Katsumi Maenaka
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Naozumi Ishimaru
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Kosako
- Division of Cell Signaling, Fujii Memorial Institute of Medical Sciences, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Takemoto
- Laboratory of Embryology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Taku Okazaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan; Division of Immune Regulation, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
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19
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Yang E, Liu Q, Huang G, Liu J, Wei W. Engineering nanobodies for next-generation molecular imaging. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1622-1638. [PMID: 35331925 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, nanobodies have emerged as ideal imaging agents for molecular imaging. Molecular nanobody imaging combines the specificity of nanobodies with the sensitivity of state-of-the-art molecular imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET). Given that modifications of nanobodies alter their pharmacokinetics (PK), the engineering strategies that combine nanobodies with radionuclides determine the effectiveness, reliability, and safety of the molecular imaging probes. In this review, we introduce conjugation strategies that have been applied to nanobodies, including random conjugation, 99mTc tricarbonyl chemistry, sortase A-mediated site-specific conjugation, maleimide-cysteine chemistry, and click chemistries. We also summarize the latest advances in nanobody tracers, emphasizing their preclinical and clinical use. In addition, we elaborate on nanobody-based near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging and image-guided surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erpeng Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China
| | - Qiufang Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China.
| | - Weijun Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China.
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20
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Update on lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) in cancers: from biological properties to clinical applications. Chin Med J (Engl) 2022; 135:1203-1212. [PMID: 35170503 PMCID: PMC9337260 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy that targets checkpoints, especially programmed cell death protein 1 and programmed cell death ligand 1, has revolutionized cancer therapy regimens. The overall response rate to mono-immunotherapy, however, is limited, emphasizing the need to potentiate the efficacy of these regimens. The functions of immune cells are modulated by multiple stimulatory and inhibitory molecules, including lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3). LAG-3 is co-expressed together with other inhibitory checkpoints and plays key roles in immune suppression. Increasing evidence, particularly in the last 5 years, has shown the potential of LAG-3 blockade in anti-tumor immunity. This review provides an update on the biological properties and clinical applications of LAG-3 in cancers.
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21
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Shi AP, Tang XY, Xiong YL, Zheng KF, Liu YJ, Shi XG, Lv Y, Jiang T, Ma N, Zhao JB. Immune Checkpoint LAG3 and Its Ligand FGL1 in Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 12:785091. [PMID: 35111155 PMCID: PMC8801495 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.785091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
LAG3 is the most promising immune checkpoint next to PD-1 and CTLA-4. High LAG3 and FGL1 expression boosts tumor growth by inhibiting the immune microenvironment. This review comprises four sections presenting the structure/expression, interaction, biological effects, and clinical application of LAG3/FGL1. D1 and D2 of LAG3 and FD of FGL1 are the LAG3-FGL1 interaction domains. LAG3 accumulates on the surface of lymphocytes in various tumors, but is also found in the cytoplasm in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. FGL1 is found in the cytoplasm in NSCLC cells and on the surface of breast cancer cells. The LAG3-FGL1 interaction mechanism remains unclear, and the intracellular signals require elucidation. LAG3/FGL1 activity is associated with immune cell infiltration, proliferation, and secretion. Cytokine production is enhanced when LAG3/FGL1 are co-expressed with PD-1. IMP321 and relatlimab are promising monoclonal antibodies targeting LAG3 in melanoma. The clinical use of anti-FGL1 antibodies has not been reported. Finally, high FGL1 and LAG3 expression induces EGFR-TKI and gefitinib resistance, and anti-PD-1 therapy resistance, respectively. We present a comprehensive overview of the role of LAG3/FGL1 in cancer, suggesting novel anti-tumor therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Ping Shi
- Department of Radiology & Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Lab of Shaanxi Province, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University (Air Force Medical University), Xi'an, China
| | - Xi-Yang Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan-Lu Xiong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai-Fu Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu-Jian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xian-Gui Shi
- College of Basic Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yao Lv
- College of Basic Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jin-Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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22
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Gosmann D, Russelli L, Weber WA, Schwaiger M, Krackhardt AM, D'Alessandria C. Promise and challenges of clinical non-invasive T-cell tracking in the era of cancer immunotherapy. EJNMMI Res 2022; 12:5. [PMID: 35099641 PMCID: PMC8804060 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-022-00877-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, our understanding of the role of the immune system in cancer has significantly improved and led to the discovery of new immunotherapeutic targets and tools, which boosted the advances in cancer immunotherapy to fight a growing number of malignancies. Approved immunotherapeutic approaches are currently mainly based on immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-derived targeted therapies, or cell-based immunotherapies. In essence, these therapies induce or enhance the infiltration and function of tumor-reactive T cells within the tumors, ideally resulting in complete tumor eradication. While the clinical application of immunotherapies has shown great promise, these therapies are often accompanied either by a variety of side effects as well as partial or complete unresponsiveness of a number of patients. Since different stages of disease progression elicit different local and systemic immune responses, the ability to longitudinally interrogate the migration and expansion of immune cells, especially T cells, throughout the whole body might greatly facilitate disease characterization and understanding. Furthermore, it can serve as a tool to guide development as well as selection of appropriate treatment regiments. This review provides an overview about a variety of immune-imaging tools available to characterize and study T-cell responses induced by anti-cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, challenges are discussed that must be taken into account and overcome to use immune-imaging tools as predictive and surrogate markers to enhance assessment and successful application of immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Gosmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Lisa Russelli
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Nuklearmedizin, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang A Weber
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Nuklearmedizin, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Schwaiger
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Nuklearmedizin, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Angela M Krackhardt
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany. .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner-Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Calogero D'Alessandria
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Nuklearmedizin, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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23
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Wang P, Tang L, Zhou B, Cheng L, Zhao RC, Zhang J. Analytical methods for the detection of PD-1/PD-L1 and other molecules related to immune checkpoints. Trends Analyt Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2021.116505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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24
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Lecocq Q, Debie P, Puttemans J, Awad RM, De Beck L, Ertveldt T, De Vlaeminck Y, Goyvaerts C, Raes G, Keyaerts M, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. Evaluation of single domain antibodies as nuclear tracers for imaging of the immune checkpoint receptor human lymphocyte activation gene-3 in cancer. EJNMMI Res 2021; 11:115. [PMID: 34727262 PMCID: PMC8563901 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-021-00857-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in the field of immune-oncology have led to a significant increase in life expectancy of patients with diverse forms of cancer, such as hematologic malignancies, melanoma and lung cancer. Unfortunately, these encouraging results are not observed in the majority of patients, who remain unresponsive and/or encounter adverse events. Currently, researchers are collecting more insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie these variable responses. As an example, the human lymphocyte activation gene-3 (huLAG-3), an inhibitory immune checkpoint receptor, is increasingly studied as a therapeutic target in immune-oncology. Noninvasive molecular imaging of the immune checkpoint programmed death protein-1 (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1 has shown its value as a strategy to guide and monitor PD-1/PD-L1-targeted immune checkpoint therapy. Yet, radiotracers that allow dynamic, whole body imaging of huLAG-3 expression are not yet described. We here developed single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) that bind huLAG-3 and showed that these sdAbs can image huLAG-3 in tumors, therefore representing promising tools for further development into clinically applicable radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Debie
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Puttemans
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - R M Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L De Beck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - T Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Y De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - G Raes
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium.,Cellular and Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Keyaerts
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - N Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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25
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Küppers J, Kürpig S, Bundschuh RA, Essler M, Lütje S. Radiolabeling Strategies of Nanobodies for Imaging Applications. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:1530. [PMID: 34573872 PMCID: PMC8471529 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies are small recombinant antigen-binding fragments derived from camelid heavy-chain only antibodies. Due to their compact structure, pharmacokinetics of nanobodies are favorable compared to full-size antibodies, allowing rapid accumulation to their targets after intravenous administration, while unbound molecules are quickly cleared from the circulation. In consequence, high signal-to-background ratios can be achieved, rendering radiolabeled nanobodies high-potential candidates for imaging applications in oncology, immunology and specific diseases, for instance in the cardiovascular system. In this review, a comprehensive overview of central aspects of nanobody functionalization and radiolabeling strategies is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Küppers
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (S.K.); (R.A.B.); (M.E.); (S.L.)
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26
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Berland L, Kim L, Abousaway O, Mines A, Mishra S, Clark L, Hofman P, Rashidian M. Nanobodies for Medical Imaging: About Ready for Prime Time? Biomolecules 2021; 11:637. [PMID: 33925941 PMCID: PMC8146371 DOI: 10.3390/biom11050637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in medical treatments have been revolutionary in shaping the management and treatment landscape of patients, notably cancer patients. Over the last decade, patients with diverse forms of locally advanced or metastatic cancer, such as melanoma, lung cancers, and many blood-borne malignancies, have seen their life expectancies increasing significantly. Notwithstanding these encouraging results, the present-day struggle with these treatments concerns patients who remain largely unresponsive, as well as those who experience severely toxic side effects. Gaining deeper insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these variable responses will bring us closer to developing more effective therapeutics. To assess these mechanisms, non-invasive imaging techniques provide valuable whole-body information with precise targeting. An example of such is immuno-PET (Positron Emission Tomography), which employs radiolabeled antibodies to detect specific molecules of interest. Nanobodies, as the smallest derived antibody fragments, boast ideal characteristics for this purpose and have thus been used extensively in preclinical models and, more recently, in clinical early-stage studies as well. Their merit stems from their high affinity and specificity towards a target, among other factors. Furthermore, their small size (~14 kDa) allows them to easily disperse through the bloodstream and reach tissues in a reliable and uniform manner. In this review, we will discuss the powerful imaging potential of nanobodies, primarily through the lens of imaging malignant tumors but also touching upon their capability to image a broader variety of nonmalignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Berland
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06100 Nice, France;
| | - Lauren Kim
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Omar Abousaway
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Andrea Mines
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Shruti Mishra
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Louise Clark
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06100 Nice, France;
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, FHU OncoAge, Nice Center Hospital, 06100 Nice, France
| | - Mohammad Rashidian
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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