1
|
Dou Y, Nian Z, Wang D, Sun G, Zhou L, Hu Z, Ke J, Zhu X, Sun R, Tian Z, Fu B, Zhou Y, Wei H. Reconstituted CD74 + NK cells trigger chronic graft versus host disease after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. J Autoimmun 2024; 147:103274. [PMID: 38936148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2024.103274] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is the most common long-term complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The patients with pulmonary cGVHD in particular have a very poor prognosis. NK cells are the first reconstituted lymphocyte subset after allo-HSCT; however, the impact of reconstituted NK cells on cGVHD is unclear. Here, we found allogeneic recipients showed obvious pulmonary cGVHD. Surprisingly, deletion of reconstituted NK cells resulted in maximal relief of pulmonary cGVHD. Mechanistically, reconstituted NK cells with donor profiles modulated the pulmonary inflammatory microenvironment to trigger cGVHD. Reconstituted NK cells secreted IFN-γ and TNF-α to induce CXCL10 production by epithelial cells, which recruited macrophages and CD4+ T cells to the lungs. Then macrophages and CD4+ T cells were activated by the inflammatory microenvironment, thereby mediating lung injury. Through assessment of differences in cellular energy, we found that CD74+ NK cells with high mitochondrial potential and pro-inflammatory activity triggered pulmonary cGVHD. Furthermore, targeted elimination of CD74+ NK cells using the anti-CD74 antibody significantly alleviated pulmonary cGVHD but preserved the CD74- NK cells to exert graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effects. Data from human samples corroborated our findings in mouse models. Collectively, our results reveal that reconstituted CD74+ NK cells trigger pulmonary cGVHD and suggest that administration of CD74 antibody was a potential therapeutic for patients with cGVHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingchao Dou
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhigang Nian
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dongyao Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China; Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Guangyu Sun
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China; Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ziming Hu
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jieqi Ke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China; Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Haiming Wei
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China; Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hadjis AD, McCurdy SR. The role and novel use of natural killer cells in graft-versus-leukemia reactions after allogeneic transplantation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1358668. [PMID: 38817602 PMCID: PMC11137201 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1358668] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) has transformed over the past several decades through enhanced supportive care, reduced intensity conditioning (RIC), improved human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing, and novel graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-prevention and treatment strategies. Most notably, the implementation of post-transplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy) has dramatically increased the safety and availability of this life-saving therapy. Given reductions in nonrelapse mortality (NRM) with these advances, the HCT community has placed even greater emphasis on developing ways to reduce relapse - the leading cause of death after HCT. When using RIC HCT, protection from relapse relies predominantly on graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) reactions. Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI), adoptive cellular therapy, checkpoint inhibition, and post-HCT maintenance strategies represent approaches under study that aim to augment or synergize with the GVL effects of HCT. Optimizing donor selection algorithms to leverage GVL represents another active area of research. Many of these strategies seek to harness the effects of T cells, which for decades were felt to be the primary mediators of GVL and the focus of investigation in relapse reduction. However, there is growing interest in capitalizing on the ability of natural killer (NK) cells to yield potent anti-tumor effects. A potential advantage of NK cell-based approaches over T cell-mediated is the potential to reduce NRM in addition to relapse. By decreasing infection, without increasing the risk of GVHD, NK cells may mitigate NRM, while still yielding relapse reduction through identification and clearance of cancer cells. Most T cell-focused relapse-prevention strategies must weigh the benefits of relapse reduction against the increased risk of NRM from GVHD. In contrast, NK cells have the potential to reduce both, potentially tipping the scales significantly in favor of survival. Here, we will review the role of NK cells in GVL, optimization of NK cell match or mismatch, and burgeoning areas of research in NK cell therapy such as adoptive transfer and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley D. Hadjis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Shannon R. McCurdy
- Abramson Cancer Center and the Division of Hematology and Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Anderko RR, DePuyt AE, Bronson R, Bullotta AC, Aga E, Bosch RJ, Jones RB, Eron JJ, Mellors JW, Gandhi RT, McMahon DK, Macatangay BJ, Rinaldo CR, Mailliard RB. Persistence of a Skewed Repertoire of NK Cells in People with HIV-1 on Long-Term Antiretroviral Therapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:1564-1578. [PMID: 38551350 PMCID: PMC11073922 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
HIV-1 infection greatly alters the NK cell phenotypic and functional repertoire. This is highlighted by the expansion of a rare population of FcRγ- NK cells exhibiting characteristics of traditional immunologic memory in people with HIV (PWH). Although current antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively controls HIV-1 viremia and disease progression, its impact on HIV-1-associated NK cell abnormalities remains unclear. To address this, we performed a longitudinal analysis detailing conventional and memory-like NK cell characteristics in n = 60 PWH during the first 4 y of ART. Throughout this regimen, a skewed repertoire of cytokine unresponsive FcRγ- memory-like NK cells persisted and accompanied an overall increase in NK surface expression of CD57 and KLRG1, suggestive of progression toward immune senescence. These traits were linked to elevated serum inflammatory biomarkers and increasing Ab titers to human CMV, with human CMV viremia detected in approximately one-third of PWH at years 1-4 of ART. Interestingly, 40% of PWH displayed atypical NK cell subsets, representing intermediate stages of NK-poiesis based on single-cell multiomic trajectory analysis. Our findings indicate that NK cell irregularities persist in PWH despite long-term ART, underscoring the need to better understand the causative mechanisms that prevent full restoration of immune health in PWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renee R. Anderko
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Allison E. DePuyt
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rhianna Bronson
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Arlene C. Bullotta
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Evgenia Aga
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ronald J. Bosch
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R. Brad Jones
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph J. Eron
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - John W. Mellors
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rajesh T. Gandhi
- Infectious Disease Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deborah K. McMahon
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bernard J. Macatangay
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Charles R. Rinaldo
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robbie B. Mailliard
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Stosik M, Tokarz-Deptuła B, Deptuła W. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in teleosts against data on ILCs in humans. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 146:109415. [PMID: 38296004 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109415] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
It is assumed that cells corresponding to innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in humans, in addition to lymphoid tissue inducer cells (LTi), are also found in teleosts. In this systematic group of organisms, however, they are a poorly understood cell population. In contrast to the data on ILCs in humans, which also remain incomplete despite advanced research, in teleosts, these cells require much more attention. ILCs in teleosts have been presented as cells that may be evolutionary precursors of NK cells or ILCs identified in mammals, including humans. It is a highly heterogeneous group of cells in both humans and fish and their properties, as revealed by studies in humans, are most likely to remain strictly dependent on the location of these cells and the physiological state of the individual from which they originate. They form a bridge between innate and adaptive immunity. The premise of this paper is to review the current knowledge of ILCs in teleosts, taking into account data on similar cells in humans. A review of the knowledge concerning these particular cells, elements of innate immunity mechanisms as equivalent to, or perhaps dominant over, adaptive immunity mechanisms in teleosts, as presented, may inspire the need for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michał Stosik
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Zielona Góra, Poland
| | | | - Wiesław Deptuła
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Di Vito C, Coianiz N, Calvi M, Terzoli S, Zaghi E, Puccio S, Frigo A, Mariotti J, De Philippis C, Mannina D, Sarina B, Mineri R, Le-Trilling VTK, Trilling M, Castagna L, Bramanti S, Santoro A, Mavilio D. Persistence of KIR neg NK cells after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation protects from human cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1266051. [PMID: 38268918 PMCID: PMC10806243 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1266051] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (h-HSCT) is a therapeutic option to cure patients affected by hematologic malignancies. The kinetics and the quality of immune-reconstitution (IR) impact the clinical outcome of h-HSCT and limit the onset of life-threatening Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection/reactivation. Natural Killer (NK) cells are the first lymphocytes that recover after h-HSCT and they can provide rapid innate immune responses against opportunistic pathogens. By performing a longitudinal single-cell analysis of multiparametric flow-cytometry data, we show here that the persistence at high frequencies of CD158b1b2jneg/NKG2Apos/NKG2Cneg/NKp30pos/NKp46pos (KIRneg) NK cells is associated with HCMV infection/reactivation control. These KIRneg NK cells are "unlicensed", and are not terminal-differentiated lymphocytes appearing early during IR and mainly belonging to CD56bright/CD16neg and CD56bright/CD16pos subsets. KIRneg NK cells are enriched in oxidative and glucose metabolism pathways, produce interferon-γ, and are endowed with potent antiviral activity against HCMV ex vivo. Decreased frequencies of KIRneg NK cells early during IR are associated with clinically relevant HCMV replication. Taken together, our findings indicate that the prolonged persistence of KIRneg NK cells after h-HSCT could serve as a biomarker to better predict HCMV infection/reactivation. This phenomenon also paves the way to optimize anti-viral immune responses by enriching post-transplant donor lymphocyte infusions with KIRneg NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Coianiz
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Calvi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Terzoli
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Zaghi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Puccio
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frigo
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo Mariotti
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara De Philippis
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Mannina
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Sarina
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Rossana Mineri
- Molecular Biology Section, Clinical Investigation Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Mirko Trilling
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Luca Castagna
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Bramanti
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Santoro
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pitsillidou C, Muradore I, Pontarini E, Bertolotti M, Roberto A. A redox-based characterization of human immune cell subsets by polychromatic flow cytometry. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102632. [PMID: 37838948 PMCID: PMC10587764 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102632] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular redox state determinants are traditionally studied using fluorescent microscopy and immunoblot analysis; however, no procedure has been developed for simultaneous measurement in various immune cell subsets. Here, we present a flow cytometry assay for measuring antioxidant defense systems and reactive oxygen species simultaneously in T, B, and natural killer lymphocytes. We describe steps for preparing and treating peripheral blood mononuclear cells, surface and dye staining, cell fixation/permeabilization, and intracellular staining. We then detail machine standardization, acquisition, and analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Pitsillidou
- FlowMetric Europe, S.p.A. Via Ariosto, 21, Bresso, MI 20091, USA; Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Ivan Muradore
- FlowMetric Europe, S.p.A. Via Ariosto, 21, Bresso, MI 20091, USA
| | - Elena Pontarini
- Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rheumatology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Riva C, Vernarecci C, Minetto P, Goda R, Greppi M, Pesce S, Chies M, Zecchetti G, Ferro B, Maio E, Cea M, Lemoli RM, Marcenaro E, Guolo F. Harnessing Immune Response in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5824. [PMID: 37762763 PMCID: PMC10532363 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12185824] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the results achieved with the evolution of conventional chemotherapy and the inclusion of targeted therapies in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), survival is still not satisfying, in particular in the setting of relapsed/refractory (R/R) disease or elderly/unfit patients. Among the most innovative therapeutic options, cellular therapy has shown great results in different hematological malignancies such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphomas, with several products already approved for clinical use. However, despite the great interest in also expanding the application of these new treatments to R/R AML, no product has been approved yet for clinical application. Furthermore, cellular therapy could indeed represent a powerful tool and an appealing alternative to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for ineligible patients. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the most recent clinical research exploring the effectiveness of cellular therapy in AML, moving from consolidated approaches such as post- transplant donor's lymphocytes infusion, to modern adoptive immunotherapies such as alloreactive NK cell infusions, engineered T and NK cells (CAR-T, CAR-NK) and novel platforms of T and NK cells engaging (i.e., BiTEs, DARTs and ANKETTM).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carola Riva
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Chiara Vernarecci
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Paola Minetto
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Rayan Goda
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (R.G.); (M.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Marco Greppi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (R.G.); (M.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (R.G.); (M.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Maria Chies
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Giada Zecchetti
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Beatrice Ferro
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Elena Maio
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Michele Cea
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Roberto Massimo Lemoli
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (R.G.); (M.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Fabio Guolo
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.R.); (C.V.); (M.C.); (G.Z.); (B.F.); (E.M.); (M.C.); (R.M.L.); (F.G.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bakhtiari T, Ahmadvand M, Yaghmaie M, Sadeghi A, Mousavi SA, Rostami T, Ganjalikhani-Hakemi M. Investigation of KIR/HLA relationship and other clinical variables after T-cell-replete haploidentical bone marrow transplantation in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). BMC Immunol 2023; 24:10. [PMID: 37340345 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-023-00548-1] [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: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND KIR/HLA mismatch in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), particularly in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), was related to decreased recurrence rates, improved engraftment, and a reduction in graft-versus-host disease, according to recent research (GVHD). Uncertainty exists about the impact of KIR/HLA mismatch on haploidentical-HSCTs treated with post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy). We attempted to analyze the effects of KIR/HLA mismatch on clinical outcomes on transplant outcomes using the cohort of 54 AML patients who received a haplo-HSCT with PTCy. RESULTS In contrast to KIR/HLA match, our findings showed that donor KIR/HLA mismatch was substantially associated with superior OS (HR, 2.92; (P = 0.04)). Moreover, donor KIR/HLA mismatch (KIR2DS1D/C2+ R and KIR2DS2D/C1+ R mismatch versus KIR2DL1D/C2- R mm, KIR2DL2/3D/C1- R mm and KIR3DL1D/Bw4- mm) was correlated with the improvements in OS (HR, 0.74; P = 0.085) and activating. KIR/HLA mismatch versus KIR/HLA match was significantly correlated with improvements in OS (HR, .46; P = 0.03) and inhibitory. KIR/HLA mismatch versus KIR/HLA match was enhancement in the OS (HR, .93; P = 0.06). Despite a higher rate of aGvHD (grade I-IV) in the patients with KIR/HLA mismatch compared to KIR/HLA matched (57% vs. 33% (p = 0.04). However, the KIR/HLA mismatch group saw a decreased relapse rate (3.2% vs. 23%, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION This analysis shows the significance of KIR/HLA Incompatibility, other clinical variables like CMV, the relationship between donor/recipient and donor age, and the relationship between donor/recipient and donor age in the haplo-donor selection process. It also suggests that KIR and HLA mismatching between donor and recipient could be routinely performed for haplo-donor selection and may improve clinical outcomes after haplo-HSCTs with PTCy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Bakhtiari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ahmadvand
- Cell Therapy and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marjan Yaghmaie
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Sadeghi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Seied Asadollah Mousavi
- Cell Therapy and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Rostami
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Center, Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mazdak Ganjalikhani-Hakemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Calvi M, Di Vito C, Frigo A, Trabanelli S, Jandus C, Mavilio D. Development of Human ILCs and Impact of Unconventional Cytotoxic Subsets in the Pathophysiology of Inflammatory Diseases and Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:914266. [PMID: 35720280 PMCID: PMC9204637 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.914266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) were firstly described by different independent laboratories in 2008 as tissue-resident innate lymphocytes mirroring the phenotype and function of T helper cells. ILCs have been subdivided into three distinct subgroups, ILC1, ILC2 and ILC3, according to their cytokine and transcriptional profiles. Subsequently, also Natural Killer (NK) cells, that are considered the innate counterpart of cytotoxic CD8 T cells, were attributed to ILC1 subfamily, while lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells were attributed to ILC3 subgroup. Starting from their discovery, significant advances have been made in our understanding of ILC impact in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, in the protection against pathogens and in tumor immune-surveillance. However, there is still much to learn about ILC ontogenesis especially in humans. In this regard, NK cell developmental intermediates which have been well studied and characterized prior to the discovery of helper ILCs, have been used to shape a model of ILC ontogenesis. Herein, we will provide an overview of the current knowledge about NK cells and helper ILC ontogenesis in humans. We will also focus on the newly disclosed circulating ILC subsets with killing properties, namely unconventional CD56dim NK cells and cytotoxic helper ILCs, by discussing their possible role in ILC ontogenesis and their contribution in both physiological and pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Calvi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frigo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Trabanelli
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Camilla Jandus
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rousselière A, Delbos L, Bressollette C, Berthaume M, Charreau B. Mapping and Characterization of HCMV-Specific Unconventional HLA-E-Restricted CD8 T Cell Populations and Associated NK and T Cell Responses Using HLA/Peptide Tetramers and Spectral Flow Cytometry. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:263. [PMID: 35008688 PMCID: PMC8745070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
HCMV drives complex and multiple cellular immune responses, which causes a persistent immune imprint in hosts. This study aimed to achieve both a quantitative determination of the frequency for various anti-HCMV immune cell subsets, including CD8 T, γδT, NK cells, and a qualitative analysis of their phenotype. To map the various anti-HCMV cellular responses, we used a combination of three HLApeptide tetramer complexes (HLA-EVMAPRTLIL, HLA-EVMAPRSLLL, and HLA-A2NLVPMVATV) and antibodies for 18 surface markers (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD16, CD19, CD45RA, CD56, CD57, CD158, NKG2A, NKG2C, CCR7, TCRγδ, TCRγδ2, CX3CR1, KLRG1, 2B4, and PD-1) in a 20-color spectral flow cytometry analysis. This immunostaining protocol was applied to PBMCs isolated from HCMV- and HCMV+ individuals. Our workflow allows the efficient determination of events featuring HCMV infection such as CD4/CD8 ratio, CD8 inflation and differentiation, HCMV peptide-specific HLA-EUL40 and HLA-A2pp65CD8 T cells, and expansion of γδT and NK subsets including δ2-γT and memory-like NKG2C+CD57+ NK cells. Each subset can be further characterized by the expression of 2B4, PD-1, KLRG1, CD45RA, CCR7, CD158, and NKG2A to achieve a fine-tuned mapping of HCMV immune responses. This assay should be useful for the analysis and monitoring of T-and NK cell responses to HCMV infection or vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Béatrice Charreau
- INSERM, Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, UMR 1064, CHU Nantes, F-44000 Nantes, France; (A.R.); (L.D.); (C.B.); (M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Simonelli M, Persico P, Capucetti A, Carenza C, Franzese S, Lorenzi E, Dipasquale A, Losurdo A, Giordano L, Pessina F, Navarria P, Politi LS, Mavilio D, Locati M, Della Bella S, Santoro A, Bonecchi R. Immunotherapeutic early-phase clinical trials and malignant gliomas: A single-center experience and comprehensive immunophenotyping of circulating leukocytes. Neurooncol Adv 2021; 3:vdab160. [PMID: 34901858 PMCID: PMC8661084 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immunotherapeutic early-phase clinical trials (ieCTs) increasingly adopt large expansion cohorts exploring novel agents across different tumor types. High-grade glioma (HGG) patients are usually excluded from these trials. Methods Data of patients with recurrent HGGs treated within multicohort ieCTs between February 2014 and August 2019 (experimental group, EG) at our Phase I Unit were retrospectively reviewed and compared to a matched control group (CG) of patients treated with standard therapies. We retrospectively evaluated clinical, laboratory, and molecular parameters through univariate and multivariate analysis. A prospective characterization of circulating leukocyte subpopulations was performed in the latest twenty patients enrolled in the EG, with a statistical significance cutoff of P < .1. Results Thirty HGG patients were treated into six ieCTs. Fifteen patients received monotherapies (anti-PD-1, anti-CSF-1R, anti-TGFβ, anti-cereblon), fifteen patients combination regimens (anti-PD-L1 + anti-CD38, anti-PD-1 + anti-CSF-1R). In the EG, median progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) from treatment initiation were 1.8 and 8.6 months; twelve patients survived more than 12 months, and two of them more than 6 years. Univariate analysis identified O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation and total protein value at six weeks as significantly correlated with a better outcome. Decreased circulating neutrophils and increased conventional dendritic cells levels lead to significantly better OS. Conclusions A subgroup of EG patients achieved remarkably durable disease control. MGMT promoter methylation identifies patients who benefit more from immunotherapy. Monitoring dynamic changes of innate immune cell populations may help to predict clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Simonelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Pasquale Persico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Capucetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Carenza
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Franzese
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Lorenzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Dipasquale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Agnese Losurdo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Giordano
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Pessina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Letterio S Politi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Locati
- Unit of Leukocyte Biology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Della Bella
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Bonecchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Orrantia A, Terrén I, Astarloa-Pando G, González C, Uranga A, Mateos-Mazón JJ, García-Ruiz JC, Riñón M, Rey M, Pérez-Fernandez S, Zenarruzabeitia O, Borrego F. NK Cell Reconstitution After Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Association Between NK Cell Maturation Stage and Outcome in Multiple Myeloma. Front Immunol 2021; 12:748207. [PMID: 34675932 PMCID: PMC8524090 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.748207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (autoHSCT) is a standard of care for transplant-eligible patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Among factors that influence outcome after autoHSCT, it has been suggested that the number of natural killer (NK) cells plays an important role. However, the impact that different NK cell subsets and their phenotype could have in disease progression after autoHSCT are less clear. For this reason, we have phenotypically and functionally characterized NK cells during immune system reconstitution after autoHSCT in 54 MM patients. Shortly after leukocyte recovery, an extensive redistribution of NK cell subsets occurs in these patients. In addition, NK cells undergo a profound phenotypic change characterized, among others, by their increased proliferative capacity and immature phenotype. Importantly, MM patients who showed lower frequencies of the mature highly differentiated NKG2A-CD57+ NK cell subset at +30 and +100 days after autoHSCT experienced superior progression-free survival and had a longer time to the next treatment than those with higher frequencies. Our results provide significant insights into NK cell reconstitution after autoHSCT and suggest that the degree of NK cell maturation after autoHSCT affects the clinical outcome of MM patients treated with this therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ane Orrantia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Iñigo Terrén
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Carmen González
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Donostia University Hospital, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Alasne Uranga
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Donostia University Hospital, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Juan J Mateos-Mazón
- Hematological Cancer Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Juan C García-Ruiz
- Hematological Cancer Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Hematology and Hemotherapy Service, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Marta Riñón
- Regulation of the Immune System Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunology Service, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Mercedes Rey
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Immunology Service, Donostia University Hospital, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Silvia Pérez-Fernandez
- Scientific Coordination Facility, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cazzetta V, Bruni E, Terzoli S, Carenza C, Franzese S, Piazza R, Marzano P, Donadon M, Torzilli G, Cimino M, Simonelli M, Bello L, Villa A, Tan L, Ravens S, Prinz I, Supino D, Colombo FS, Lugli E, Marcenaro E, Vivier E, Della Bella S, Mikulak J, Mavilio D. NKG2A expression identifies a subset of human Vδ2 T cells exerting the highest antitumor effector functions. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109871. [PMID: 34686325 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Vδ2 cells are innate-like γδ T effectors performing potent immune surveillance against tumors. The constitutive expression of NKG2A identifies a subset of Vδ2 T cells licensed with an intrinsic hyper-responsiveness against cancer. Indeed, the transcriptomic profiles of NKG2A+ and NKG2A- cells characterize two distinct "intralineages" of Vδ2 T lymphocytes that appear early during development, keep their phenotypes, and show self-renewal capabilities in adult life. The hyper-responsiveness of NKG2A+ Vδ2 T cells is counterbalanced by the inhibitory signaling delivered by human leukocyte antigen E (HLA-E) expressed on malignant cells as a tumor-escape mechanism. However, either masking or knocking out NKG2A restores the capacity of Vδ2 T cells to exert the highest effector functions even against HLA-E+ tumors. This is highly relevant in the clinic, as the different degrees of engagement of the NKG2A-HLA-E checkpoint in hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, and non-small cell lung cancer directly impact patients' overall survival. These findings open avenues for developing combined cellular and immunologic anticancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Cazzetta
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Bruni
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Terzoli
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Carenza
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Franzese
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocco Piazza
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Paolo Marzano
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Cimino
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Simonelli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Bello
- U.O. Neurochirurgia Oncologica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Villa
- Division of Regenerative, Medicine, Stem Cells and Gene Therapy, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research, UOS Milan, National Research Council, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Likai Tan
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sarina Ravens
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Immo Prinz
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Domenico Supino
- Department of Biomedical Science of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico S Colombo
- Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Lugli
- Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Eric Vivier
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CIML, Marseille, France; Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France; Service d'Immunologie, Hôpital de la Timone, APHM, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille, France
| | - Silvia Della Bella
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Roma S, Carpen L, Raveane A, Bertolini F. The Dual Role of Innate Lymphoid and Natural Killer Cells in Cancer. from Phenotype to Single-Cell Transcriptomics, Functions and Clinical Uses. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205042. [PMID: 34680190 PMCID: PMC8533946 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), a family of innate immune cells including natural killers (NKs), play a multitude of roles in first-line cancer control, in escape from immunity and in cancer progression. In this review, we summarize preclinical and clinical data on ILCs and NK cells concerning their phenotype, function and clinical applications in cellular therapy trials. We also describe how single-cell transcriptome sequencing has been used and forecast how it will be used to better understand ILC and NK involvement in cancer control and progression as well as their therapeutic potential. Abstract The role of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), including natural killer (NK) cells, is pivotal in inflammatory modulation and cancer. Natural killer cell activity and count have been demonstrated to be regulated by the expression of activating and inhibitory receptors together with and as a consequence of different stimuli. The great majority of NK cell populations have an anti-tumor activity due to their cytotoxicity, and for this reason have been used for cellular therapies in cancer patients. On the other hand, the recently classified helper ILCs are fundamentally involved in inflammation and they can be either helpful or harmful in cancer development and progression. Tissue niche seems to play an important role in modulating ILC function and conversion, as observed at the transcriptional level. In the past, these cell populations have been classified by the presence of specific cellular receptor markers; more recently, due to the advent of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), it has been possible to also explore them at the transcriptomic level. In this article we review studies on ILC (and NK cell) classification, function and their involvement in cancer. We also summarize the potential application of NK cells in cancer therapy and give an overview of the most recent studies involving ILCs and NKs at scRNA-seq, focusing on cancer. Finally, we provide a resource for those who wish to start single-cell transcriptomic analysis on the context of these innate lymphoid cell populations.
Collapse
|
15
|
Leem G, Cheon S, Lee H, Choi SJ, Jeong S, Kim ES, Jeong HW, Jeong H, Park SH, Kim YS, Shin EC. Abnormality in the NK-cell population is prolonged in severe COVID-19 patients. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 148:996-1006.e18. [PMID: 34339730 PMCID: PMC8324384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our understanding of adaptive immune responses in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly evolving, but information on the innate immune responses by natural killer (NK) cells is still insufficient. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the phenotypic and functional status of NK cells and their changes during the course of mild and severe COVID-19. METHODS We performed RNA sequencing and flow cytometric analysis of NK cells from patients with mild and severe COVID-19 at multiple time points in the course of the disease using cryopreserved PBMCs. RESULTS In RNA-sequencing analysis, the NK cells exhibited distinctive features compared with healthy donors, with significant enrichment of proinflammatory cytokine-mediated signaling pathways. Intriguingly, we found that the unconventional CD56dimCD16neg NK-cell population expanded in cryopreserved PBMCs from patients with COVID-19 regardless of disease severity, accompanied by decreased NK-cell cytotoxicity. The NK-cell population was rapidly normalized alongside the disappearance of unconventional CD56dimCD16neg NK cells and the recovery of NK-cell cytotoxicity in patients with mild COVID-19, but this occurred slowly in patients with severe COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The current longitudinal study provides a deep understanding of the NK-cell biology in COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galam Leem
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shinhye Cheon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hoyoung Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seong Jin Choi
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seongju Jeong
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Eui-Soon Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hye Won Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Hyeongseok Jeong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Su-Hyung Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Yeon-Sook Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mikelez-Alonso I, Magadán S, González-Fernández Á, Borrego F. Natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapies and the many faces of NK cell memory: A look into how nanoparticles enhance NK cell activity. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113860. [PMID: 34237404 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes able to exert potent antitumor and antiviral functions by different means. Besides their classification as innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), NK cells exhibit memory-like and memory responses after cytokine preactivation, viral infections and hapten exposure. Multiple NK cell-based immunotherapies have been developed and are currently being tested, including the possibility to translate the NK cell memory responses into the clinic. Nevertheless, still there is a need to improve these therapies, especially for the treatment of solid tumors, and nanotechnology represents an attractive option to increase NK cell effector functions against transformed cells. In this article, we review the basis of NK cell activity, the diversity of the NK cell memory responses and the current NK cell-based immunotherapies that are being used in the clinic. Furthermore, we take a look into nanotechnology-based strategies targeting NK cells to modulate their responses for effective immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Idoia Mikelez-Alonso
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo, Spain; Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia - San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Susana Magadán
- CINBIO, Universidade de Vigo, Immunology Group, Vigo, Spain; Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS-GS), Hospital Alvaro Cunqueiro, Vigo, Spain
| | - África González-Fernández
- CINBIO, Universidade de Vigo, Immunology Group, Vigo, Spain; Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS-GS), Hospital Alvaro Cunqueiro, Vigo, Spain
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zaghi E, Calvi M, Puccio S, Spata G, Terzoli S, Peano C, Roberto A, De Paoli F, van Beek JJ, Mariotti J, De Philippis C, Sarina B, Mineri R, Bramanti S, Santoro A, Le-Trilling VTK, Trilling M, Marcenaro E, Castagna L, Di Vito C, Lugli E, Mavilio D. Single-cell profiling identifies impaired adaptive NK cells expanded after HCMV reactivation in haploidentical HSCT. JCI Insight 2021; 6:146973. [PMID: 34003794 PMCID: PMC8262468 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.146973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (h-HSCT) represents an efficient curative approach for patients affected by hematologic malignancies in which the reduced intensity conditioning induces a state of immunologic tolerance between donor and recipient. However, opportunistic viral infections greatly affect h-HSCT clinical outcomes. NK cells are the first lymphocytes that recover after transplant and provide a prompt defense against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection/reactivation. By undertaking a longitudinal single-cell computational profiling of multiparametric flow cytometry, we show that HCMV accelerates NK cell immune reconstitution together with the expansion of CD158b1b2jpos/NKG2Aneg/NKG2Cpos/NKp30lo NK cells. The frequency of this subset correlates with HCMV viremia, further increases in recipients experiencing multiple episodes of viral reactivations, and persists for months after the infection. The transcriptional profile of FACS-sorted CD158b1b2jpos NK cells confirmed the ability of HCMV to deregulate NKG2C, NKG2A, and NKp30 gene expression, thus inducing the expansion of NK cells with adaptive traits. These NK cells are characterized by the downmodulation of several gene pathways associated with cell migration, the cell cycle, and effector-functions, as well as by a state of metabolic/cellular exhaustion. This profile reflects the functional impairments of adaptive NK cells to produce IFN-γ, a phenomenon also due to the viral-induced expression of lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) checkpoint inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Zaghi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Calvi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,BIOMETRA, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gianmarco Spata
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Terzoli
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Clelia Peano
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research, UoS Milan, National Research Council, and Genomic Unit
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rossana Mineri
- Molecular Biology Section, Clinical Investigation Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Mirko Trilling
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,BIOMETRA, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Lugli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology.,Flow Cytometry Core, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,BIOMETRA, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Phase I Trial of Prophylactic Donor-Derived IL-2-Activated NK Cell Infusion after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation from a Matched Sibling Donor. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112673. [PMID: 34071607 PMCID: PMC8198961 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a curative option for high-risk hematologic malignancies. However, disease recurrence after allo-HSCT remains a critical issue, underlining the need to develop maintenance therapy. In this context, NK cell-based immunotherapies could enhance graft-versus-tumor effect without triggering graft-versus-host disease. In this prospective phase I clinical trial, we demonstrated the safety of donor-derived NK cell infusion as a prophylactic treatment after allo-HSCT for patients with hematological malignancies. This opens perspectives for future developments of NK cell based therapeutic strategies after allo-HSCT with low incidence of GVHD, representing an advantage over post-transplant T cell modulations that are commonly used in clinical routine. Abstract Background: NK cell-based immunotherapy to prevent relapse after allogeneic transplantation is an appealing strategy because NK cells can provide strong antitumor effect without inducing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Thus, we designed a phase-I clinical trial evaluating the safety of a prophylactic donor-derived ex vivo IL-2 activated NK cell (IL-2 NK) infusion after allo-HSCT for patients with hematologic malignancies. Methods: Donor NK cells were purified and cultured ex vivo with IL-2 before infusion, at three dose levels. To identify the maximum tolerated dose was the main objective. In addition, we performed phenotypical and functional characterization of the NK cell therapy product, and longitudinal immune monitoring of NK cell phenotype in patients. Results: Compared to unstimulated NK cells, IL-2 NK cells expressed higher levels of activating receptors and exhibited increased degranulation and cytokine production in vitro. We treated 16 patients without observing any dose-limiting toxicity. At the last follow up, 11 out of 16 treated patients were alive in complete remission of hematologic malignancies without GVHD features and immunosuppressive treatment. Conclusions: Prophylactic donor-derived IL-2 NK cells after allo-HSCT is safe with low incidence of GVHD. Promising survivals and IL-2 NK cell activated phenotype may support a potential clinical efficacy of this strategy.
Collapse
|
19
|
Phenotypic and Functional Characteristics of a Novel Influenza Virus Hemagglutinin-Specific Memory NK Cell. J Virol 2021; 95:JVI.00165-21. [PMID: 33827945 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00165-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune memory represents the most efficient defense against invasion and transmission of infectious pathogens. In contrast to memory T and B cells, the roles of innate immunity in recall responses remain inconclusive. In this study, we identified a novel mouse spleen NK cell subset expressing NKp46 and NKG2A induced by intranasal influenza virus infection. These memory NK cells specifically recognize N-linked glycosylation sites on influenza hemagglutinin (HA) protein. Different from memory-like NK cells reported previously, these NKp46+ NKG2A+ memory NK cells exhibited HA-specific silence of cytotoxicity but increase of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) response against influenza virus-infected cells, which could be reversed by pifithrin-μ, a p53-heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) signaling inhibitor. During recall responses, splenic NKp46+ NKG2A+ NK cells were recruited to infected lung and modulated viral clearance of virus and CD8+ T cell distribution, resulting in improved clinical outcomes. This long-lived NK memory bridges innate and adaptive immune memory response and promotes the homeostasis of local environment during recall response.IMPORTANCE In this study, we demonstrate a novel hemagglutinin (HA)-specific NKp46+ NKG2A+ NK cell subset induced by influenza A virus infection. These memory NK cells show virus-specific decreased cytotoxicity and increased gamma interferon (IFN-γ) on reencountering the same influenza virus antigen. In addition, they modulate host recall responses and CD8 T cell distribution, thus bridging the innate immune and adaptive immune responses during influenza virus infection.
Collapse
|
20
|
Natural Killer-Dendritic Cell Interactions in Liver Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092184. [PMID: 34062821 PMCID: PMC8124166 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reciprocal crosstalk between dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells plays a pivotal role in regulating immune defense against viruses and tumors. The Th-cell polarizing ability, cytokine-producing capacity, chemokine expression, and migration of DCs are regulated by activated NK cells. Conversely, the effector functions including lysis and cytokine production, proliferation, and migration of NK cells are influenced by close interactions with activated DCs. In this review, we explore the impact of DC–NK cell crosstalk and its therapeutic potential in immune control of liver malignances. Abstract Natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells (DCs) are innate immune cells that play a crucial role in anti-tumor immunity. NK cells kill tumor cells through direct cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion. DCs are needed for the activation of adaptive immune responses against tumor cells. Both NK cells and DCs are subdivided in several subsets endowed with specialized effector functions. Crosstalk between NK cells and DCs leads to the reciprocal control of their activation and polarization of immune responses. In this review, we describe the role of NK cells and DCs in liver cancer, focusing on the mechanisms involved in their reciprocal control and activation. In this context, intrahepatic NK cells and DCs present unique immunological features, due to the constant exposure to non-self-circulating antigens. These interactions might play a fundamental role in the pathology of primary liver cancer, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Additionally, the implications of these immune changes are relevant from the perspective of improving the cancer immunotherapy strategies in HCC and ICC patients.
Collapse
|
21
|
Human NK Cells in Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071589. [PMID: 33808201 PMCID: PMC8037172 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Natural killer (NK) cells are key elements of the innate immune system that have the ability to kill transformed (tumor and virus-infected) cells without prior sensitization. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a medical procedure used in the treatment of a variety of cancers. The early reconstitution of NK cells after HSCT and their functions support the therapeutic potential of these cells in allogenic HSCT. However, the role of NK cells in autologous HSCT is less clear. In this review, we have summarized general aspects of NK cell biology. In addition, we have also reviewed factors that affect autologous HSCT outcome, with particular attention to the role played by NK cells. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells are phenotypically and functionally diverse lymphocytes with the ability to recognize and kill malignant cells without prior sensitization, and therefore, they have a relevant role in tumor immunosurveillance. NK cells constitute the main lymphocyte subset in peripheral blood in the first week after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Although the role that NK cells play in allogenic HSCT settings has been documented for years, their significance and beneficial effects associated with the outcome after autologous HSCT are less recognized. In this review, we have summarized fundamental aspects of NK cell biology, such as, NK cell subset diversity, their effector functions, and differentiation. Moreover, we have reviewed the factors that affect autologous HSCT outcome, with particular attention to the role played by NK cells and their receptor repertoire in this regard.
Collapse
|
22
|
Gurney M, O’Dwyer M. Realizing Innate Potential: CAR-NK Cell Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1568. [PMID: 33805422 PMCID: PMC8036691 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Next-generation cellular immunotherapies seek to improve the safety and efficacy of approved CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell products or apply their principles across a growing list of targets and diseases. Supported by promising early clinical experiences, CAR modified natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapies represent a complementary and potentially off-the-shelf, allogeneic solution. While acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents an intuitive disease in which to investigate CAR based immunotherapies, key biological differences to B-cell malignancies have complicated progress to date. As CAR-T cell trials treating AML are growing in number, several CAR-NK cell approaches are also in development. In this review we explore why CAR-NK cell therapies may be particularly suited to the treatment of AML. First, we examine the established role NK cells play in AML biology and the existing anti-leukemic activity of NK cell adoptive transfer. Next, we appraise potential AML target antigens and consider common and unique challenges posed relative to treating B-cell malignancies. We summarize the current landscape of CAR-NK development in AML, and potential targets to augment CAR-NK cell therapies pharmacologically and through genetic engineering. Finally, we consider the broader landscape of competing immunotherapeutic approaches to AML treatment. In doing so we evaluate the innate potential, status and remaining barriers for CAR-NK based AML immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Gurney
- Apoptosis Research Center, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Michael O’Dwyer
- Apoptosis Research Center, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
- ONK Therapeutics Ltd., H91 V6KV Galway, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Maeda Y. Immune reconstitution after T-cell replete HLA haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation using high-dose post-transplant cyclophosphamide. J Clin Exp Hematop 2021; 61:1-9. [PMID: 33551435 PMCID: PMC8053574 DOI: 10.3960/jslrt.20040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As HLA haploidentical related donors are quickly available, HLA haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haploHSCT) using high-dose post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) is now widely used. Recent basic and clinical studies revealed the details of immune reconstitution after T-cell replete haploHSCT using PTCy. T cells and NK cells in the graft proliferate abundantly at day 3 post-haploHSCT, and the PTCy eliminates these proliferating cells. After ablation of proliferating mature cells, donor-derived NK cell reconstitution occurs after the second week; however, recovering NK cells remain functionally impaired for at least several months after haploHSCT. PTCy depletes proliferating cells, resulting in the preferential accumulation of Treg and CD4+ T cells, especially the memory stem T cell (TSCM) phenotype. TSCM capable of both self-renewal and differentiation into effector T cells may play an important role in the first month of immune reconstitution. Subsequently, de novo T cells progressively recover but their levels remain well below those of donor CD4+ T cells at the first year after haploHSCT. The phenotype of recovering T cells after HSCT is predominantly effector memory, whereas B cells are predominantly phenotypically naive throughout the first year after haploHSCT. B cell recovery depends on de novo generation and they are not detected until week 4 after haploHSCT. At week 5, recovering B cells mostly exhibit an unconventional transitional cell phenotype and the cell subset undergoes maturation. Recent advances in immune reconstitution have improved our understanding of the relationship between haploHSCT with PTCy and the clinical outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinobu Maeda
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Contemporary haploidentical stem cell transplant strategies in children with hematological malignancies. Bone Marrow Transplant 2021; 56:1518-1534. [PMID: 33674791 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-021-01246-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The barriers to HLA-mismatched or haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), namely GvHD and graft failure, have been overcome with novel transplant platforms. Post-transplant Cyclophosphamide (PTCy) is widely available, feasible and easy to implement. TCRαβ T and B cell depletion comes with consistent GvHD preventive benefits irrespective of age and indication. Naive T-cell depletion helps prevention of severe viral reactivations. The Beijing protocol shows promising outcomes in patients with poor remission status at the time of transplantation. For children, the toxicities and late outcomes related to these transplants are truly relevant as they suffer the most in the long run from transplant-related toxicities, especially chronic GvHD. While comparing the outcomes of different Haplo-HSCT approaches, one must understand the transplant immunobiology and factors affecting the transplant outcomes. Leukemia remission status at the time of conditioning is a consistent factor affecting the transplant outcomes using any of these platforms. Prospective comparison of these platforms lacks in a homogenous population; however, the evidence is growing, and this review highlights the areas of research gaps.
Collapse
|
25
|
Rambaldi B, Kim HT, Reynolds C, Chamling Rai S, Arihara Y, Kubo T, Buon L, Gooptu M, Koreth J, Cutler C, Nikiforow S, Ho VT, Alyea EP, Antin JH, Wu CJ, Soiffer RJ, Ritz J, Romee R. Impaired T- and NK-cell reconstitution after haploidentical HCT with posttransplant cyclophosphamide. Blood Adv 2021; 5:352-364. [PMID: 33496734 PMCID: PMC7839379 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Administration of posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) has significantly expanded the number of patients undergoing HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (haplo-HCT). To examine immune reconstitution in these patients, we monitored T- and natural killer (NK)-cell recovery in 60 patients receiving bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) grafts after haplo-HCT with PTCy and 35 patients receiving HLA-matched donor PBSC grafts with standard graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis. Compared with HLA-matched recipients, early T-cell recovery was delayed in haplo-HCT patients and skewed toward effector memory T cells with markedly reduced naive T cells. We found higher regulatory T (Treg)-cell/conventional T (Tcon)-cell ratios early after HCT and increased PD-1 expression on memory T cells. Within the haplo-HCT, patients who did not develop chronic GVHD (cGVHD) had higher PD-1 expression on central and effector memory CD4+ Treg cells at 1 month after transplant. These findings suggest an immunologic milieu that promotes immune tolerance in haplo-HCT patients. NK cells were decreased early after haplo-HCT with preferential expansion of immature CD56brightCD16- NK cells compared with matched donor transplants. One month after transplant, mass cytometry revealed enrichment of immature NK-cell metaclusters with high NKG2A, low CD57, and low killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor expression after haplo-HCT, which partially recovered 3 months post-HCT. At 2 months, immature NK cells from both groups were functionally impaired, but interleukin-15 priming corrected these defects in vitro. Increased immature/mature NK-cell ratios were associated with cytomegalovirus reactivation and increased incidence of cGVHD after haplo-HCT. These homeostatic imbalances in T- and NK-cell reconstitution after haplo-HCT reveal opportunities for early immune-based interventions to optimize clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Rambaldi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences Department, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Spedali Civili, University of Pavia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Haesook T Kim
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; and
| | - Carol Reynolds
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sharmila Chamling Rai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Yohei Arihara
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Tomohiro Kubo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Leutz Buon
- Department of BioInformatics and Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mahasweta Gooptu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - John Koreth
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Corey Cutler
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sarah Nikiforow
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Vincent T Ho
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Edwin P Alyea
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Joseph H Antin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Catherine J Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Robert J Soiffer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jerome Ritz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rizwan Romee
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bogunia-Kubik K, Łacina P. Non-KIR NK cell receptors: Role in transplantation of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cells. Int J Immunogenet 2020; 48:157-171. [PMID: 33352617 DOI: 10.1111/iji.12523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are of major significance in patients after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). They are the first subset of lymphocytes to appear in peripheral blood after transplantation and play an important role in the immune responses against cancer and viral infections. The function of NK cells is controlled by various surface receptors, of which type I integral proteins with immunoglobulin-like domains (killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors, KIRs) have been the most extensively studied. The present review focuses on less studied NK cell receptors, such as type II integral proteins with lectin-like domains (CD94/NKG2, NKG2D), natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs), immunoglobulin-like transcripts (ILTs) and their ligands. Their potential role in patients with haematological disorders subjected to HSC transplant procedure in the context of post-transplant complications such as viral reactivation and acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) will be presented and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Łacina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Pesce S, Trabanelli S, Di Vito C, Greppi M, Obino V, Guolo F, Minetto P, Bozzo M, Calvi M, Zaghi E, Candiani S, Lemoli RM, Jandus C, Mavilio D, Marcenaro E. Cancer Immunotherapy by Blocking Immune Checkpoints on Innate Lymphocytes. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123504. [PMID: 33255582 PMCID: PMC7760325 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoints refer to a plethora of inhibitory pathways of the immune system that play a crucial role in maintaining self-tolerance and in tuning the duration and amplitude of physiological immune responses to minimize collateral tissue damages. The breakdown of this delicate balance leads to pathological conditions, including cancer. Indeed, tumor cells can develop multiple mechanisms to escape from immune system defense, including the activation of immune checkpoint pathways. The development of monoclonal antibodies, targeting inhibitory immune checkpoints, has provided an immense breakthrough in cancer therapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), initially developed to reverse functional exhaustion in T cells, recently emerged as important actors in natural killer (NK)-cell-based immunotherapy. Moreover, the discovery that also helper innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) express inhibitory immune checkpoints, suggests that these molecules might be targeted on ILCs, to modulate their functions in the tumor microenvironment. Recently, other strategies to achieve immune checkpoint blockade have been developed, including miRNA exploiting systems. Herein, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on inhibitory immune checkpoints on NK cells and ILCs and we discuss how to target these innate lymphocytes by ICI in both solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES) and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.P.); (M.G.); (V.O.)
| | - Sara Trabanelli
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.T.); (C.J.)
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, CH-1066 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (C.D.V.); (M.C.); (E.Z.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Greppi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES) and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.P.); (M.G.); (V.O.)
| | - Valentina Obino
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES) and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.P.); (M.G.); (V.O.)
| | - Fabio Guolo
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DIMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.G.); (P.M.); (R.M.L.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Minetto
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DIMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.G.); (P.M.); (R.M.L.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Matteo Bozzo
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Michela Calvi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (C.D.V.); (M.C.); (E.Z.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Zaghi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (C.D.V.); (M.C.); (E.Z.); (D.M.)
| | - Simona Candiani
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Roberto Massimo Lemoli
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DIMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.G.); (P.M.); (R.M.L.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Camilla Jandus
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.T.); (C.J.)
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, CH-1066 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (C.D.V.); (M.C.); (E.Z.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES) and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.P.); (M.G.); (V.O.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0103357888
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bachiller M, Battram AM, Perez-Amill L, Martín-Antonio B. Natural Killer Cells in Immunotherapy: Are We Nearly There? Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3139. [PMID: 33120910 PMCID: PMC7694052 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are potent anti-tumor and anti-microbial cells of our innate immune system. They are equipped with a vast array of receptors that recognize tumor cells and other pathogens. The innate immune activity of NK cells develops faster than the adaptive one performed by T cells, and studies suggest an important immunoregulatory role for each population against the other. The association, observed in acute myeloid leukemia patients receiving haploidentical killer-immunoglobulin-like-receptor-mismatched NK cells, with induction of complete remission was the determinant to begin an increasing number of clinical studies administering NK cells for the treatment of cancer patients. Unfortunately, even though transfused NK cells demonstrated safety, their observed efficacy was poor. In recent years, novel studies have emerged, combining NK cells with other immunotherapeutic agents, such as monoclonal antibodies, which might improve clinical efficacy. Moreover, genetically-modified NK cells aimed at arming NK cells with better efficacy and persistence have appeared as another option. Here, we review novel pre-clinical and clinical studies published in the last five years administering NK cells as a monotherapy and combined with other agents, and we also review chimeric antigen receptor-modified NK cells for the treatment of cancer patients. We then describe studies regarding the role of NK cells as anti-microbial effectors, as lessons that we could learn and apply in immunotherapy applications of NK cells; these studies highlight an important immunoregulatory role performed between T cells and NK cells that should be considered when designing immunotherapeutic strategies. Lastly, we highlight novel strategies that could be combined with NK cell immunotherapy to improve their targeting, activity, and persistence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Beatriz Martín-Antonio
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.M.B.); (L.P.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Devillier R, Chrétien AS, Pagliardini T, Salem N, Blaise D, Olive D. Mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment and current clinical approaches to harness NK cell potential for immunotherapy. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 109:1071-1088. [PMID: 32991746 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5mr0920-198rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells are innate immune cells with inherent capabilities in both recognizing and killing cancer cells. NK cell phenotypes and functional alterations are being described with increasing precision among patients harboring various cancer types, emphasizing the critical role that NK cells play in antitumor immune responses. In addition, advances in understanding NK cell biology have improved our knowledge of such alterations, thereby expanding the potential exploitation of NK cells' anticancer capabilities. In this review, we present an overview of (1) the various types of NK cell alterations that may contribute to immune evasion in cancer patients and (2) the various strategies to improve NK cell-based anticancer immunotherapies, including pharmacologic modulation and/or genetic modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raynier Devillier
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Chrétien
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Pagliardini
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Nassim Salem
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Didier Blaise
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Daniel Olive
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sheng L, Mu Q, Wu X, Yang S, Zhu H, Wang J, Lai Y, Wu H, Sun Y, Hu Y, Fu H, Wang Y, Xu K, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Zhang P, Zhou M, Lai B, Xu Z, Gao M, Zhang Y, Ouyang G. Cytotoxicity of Donor Natural Killer Cells to Allo-Reactive T Cells Are Related With Acute Graft-vs.-Host-Disease Following Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1534. [PMID: 32849519 PMCID: PMC7411138 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The mechanism and immunoregulatory role of human natural killer (NK) cells in acute graft-vs.-host-disease (aGVHD) remains unclear. This study quantitatively analyzed the cytotoxicity of donor NK cells toward allo-reactive T cells, and investigated their relationship with acute GVHD (aGVHD). Methods: We evaluated NK dose, subgroup, and receptor expression in allografts from 98 patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). A CD107a degranulating assay was used as a quantitative detection method for the cytotoxic function of donor NK cells to allo-reactive T cells. In antibody-blocking assay, NK cells were pre-treated with anti-DNAM-1(CD226), anti-NKG2D, anti-NKP46, or anti-NKG-2A monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) before the degranulating assay. Results: NK cells in allografts effectively inhibited auto-T cell proliferation following alloantigen stimulation, selectively killing alloantigen activated T cells. NKG2A− NK cell subgroups showed higher levels of CD107a degranulation toward activated T cells, when compared with NKG2A− subgroups. Blocking NKG2D or CD226 (DNAM-1) led to significant reductions in degranulation, whereas NKG2A block resulted in increased NK degranulation. Donor NK cells in the aGVHD group expressed lower levels of NKG2D and CD226, higher levels of NKG2A, and showed higher CD107a degranulation levels when compared with NK cells in the non-aGVHD group. Using univariate analysis, higher NK degranulation activities in allografts (CD107ahigh) were correlated with a decreased risk in grade I–IV aGVHD (hazard risk [HR] = 0.294; P < 0.0001), grade III–IV aGVHD (HR = 0.102; P < 0.0001), and relapse (HR = 0.157; P = 0.015), and improved overall survival (HR = 0.355; P = 0.028) after allo-HSCT. Multivariate analyses showed that higher NK degranulation activities (CD107ahigh) in allografts were independent risk factors for grades, I–IV aGVHD (HR = 0.357; P = 0.002), and grades III–IV aGVHD (HR = 0.13; P = 0.009). Conclusions: These findings reveal that the degranulation activity of NK in allografts toward allo-activated T cells was associated with the occurrence and the severity of aGVHD, after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. This suggested that cytotoxicity of donor NK cells to allo-reactive T cells have important roles in aGVHD regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Sheng
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Qitian Mu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoqing Wu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Shujun Yang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Huiling Zhu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Jiaping Wang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yanli Lai
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Ye Sun
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yongxian Hu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huarui Fu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Kaihong Xu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yongcheng Sun
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Miao Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Binbin Lai
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhijuan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Minjie Gao
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Guifang Ouyang
- Department of Hematology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Orrantia A, Terrén I, Izquierdo-Lafuente A, Alonso-Cabrera JA, Sandá V, Vitallé J, Moreno S, Tasias M, Uranga A, González C, Mateos JJ, García-Ruiz JC, Zenarruzabeitia O, Borrego F. A NKp80-Based Identification Strategy Reveals that CD56 neg NK Cells Are Not Completely Dysfunctional in Health and Disease. iScience 2020; 23:101298. [PMID: 32622268 PMCID: PMC7334412 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are usually identified by the absence of other lineage markers, due to the lack of cell-surface-specific receptors. CD56neg NK cells, classically identified as CD56negCD16+, are very scarce in the peripheral blood of healthy people but they expand in some pathological conditions. However, studies on CD56neg NK cells had revealed different results regarding the phenotype and functionality. This could be due to, among others, the unstable expression of CD16, which hinders CD56neg NK cells' proper identification. Hence, we aim to determine an alternative surface marker to CD16 to better identify CD56neg NK cells. We have found that NKp80 is superior to CD16. Furthermore, we found differences between the functionality of CD56negNKp80+ and CD56negCD16+, suggesting that the effector functions of CD56neg NK cells are not as diminished as previously thought. We proposed NKp80 as a noteworthy marker to identify and accurately re-characterize human CD56neg NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ane Orrantia
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Iñigo Terrén
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | | | | | - Victor Sandá
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Joana Vitallé
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Santiago Moreno
- Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid 28034, Spain
| | - María Tasias
- Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Alasne Uranga
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, Donostia-San Sebastián 20014, Spain
| | - Carmen González
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, Donostia-San Sebastián 20014, Spain
| | - Juan J Mateos
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Hematological Cancer Group, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Juan C García-Ruiz
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Hematological Cancer Group, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Immunopathology Group, Barakaldo 48903, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao 48013, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wu Y, Li J, Jabbarzadeh Kaboli P, Shen J, Wu X, Zhao Y, Ji H, Du F, Zhou Y, Wang Y, Zhang H, Yin J, Wen Q, Cho CH, Li M, Xiao Z. Natural killer cells as a double-edged sword in cancer immunotherapy: A comprehensive review from cytokine therapy to adoptive cell immunotherapy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104691. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
33
|
Therapeutic Development of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1248:619-649. [PMID: 32185726 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-3266-5_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has been proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing the effector activity of anti-tumor T cells, and checkpoint blockers targeting CTLA-4, PD-1, and PD-L1 have displayed strong and durable clinical responses in certain cancer patients. The new hope brought by ICB therapy has led to the boost in therapeutic development of ICBs in recent years. Nonetheless, the therapeutic efficacy of ICBs varies substantially among cancer types and patients, and only a proportion of cancer patients could benefit from ICBs. The emerging targets and molecules for enhancing anticancer immunity may bring additional therapeutic opportunities for cancer patients. The current challenges in the ICB therapy have been discussed, aimed to provide further strategies for maximizing the efficacy of ICB therapy.
Collapse
|
34
|
Serrano-Del Valle A, Naval J, Anel A, Marzo I. Novel Forms of Immunomodulation for Cancer Therapy. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:518-532. [PMID: 32460005 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years immunotherapy has provided new hope for cancer patients. However, some patients eventually relapse. Immunological responses are thought to underlie the long-term effects of conventional or targeted therapies. Whether this influence emerges from direct effects on cancer cells through immunogenic cell death (ICD) or by modulating the immune environment requires further clarification. ICD-related molecular mechanisms are also shared by cell-intrinsic defense responses that combat foreign intrusions. Indeed, we could potentially mimic and harness these processes to improve cancer immunogenicity. In addition, the microbiome is materializing as a missing factor in the cancer-immune therapy axis. The emerging idea of manipulating the gut microbiota to improve responses to anticancer therapy is becoming increasingly popular, but further clinical authentication is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfonso Serrano-Del Valle
- Apoptosis, Immunity, and Cancer Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, and Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS-Aragon), Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
| | - Javier Naval
- Apoptosis, Immunity, and Cancer Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, and Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS-Aragon), Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Alberto Anel
- Apoptosis, Immunity, and Cancer Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, and Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS-Aragon), Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Isabel Marzo
- Apoptosis, Immunity, and Cancer Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, and Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS-Aragon), Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Del Zotto G, Antonini F, Pesce S, Moretta F, Moretta L, Marcenaro E. Comprehensive Phenotyping of Human PB NK Cells by Flow Cytometry. Cytometry A 2020; 97:891-899. [PMID: 32198974 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.24001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The NK cell compartment provides powerful innate defenses against virus-infected and tumor cells. Specific NK cell receptors control this process and maintain the immune system homeostasis and prevent autoimmunity. A wide variety of NK cell subsets with different functional capabilities exist and this reflects not only the different maturation stages of NK cells but also different microenvironments in which they can operate. In this review, we will give an overview on the various NK cell subsets present in peripheral blood of healthy donors in order to clearly and univocally identify them on the basis of their phenotypic traits using flow cytometry. © 2020 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Genny Del Zotto
- Core Facilities, Area Aggregazione Servizi e Laboratori Diagnostici, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Antonini
- Core Facilities, Area Aggregazione Servizi e Laboratori Diagnostici, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Moretta
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Department of Immunology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Recent progress in and challenges in cellular therapy using NK cells for hematological malignancies. Blood Rev 2020; 44:100678. [PMID: 32229065 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2020.100678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
NK cells have killing activity against leukemic cells and solid cancer cells that escape from T cell recognition because of the low expression level of HLA class I molecules. This characteristic feature of NK cell recognition of target cells in contrast to T cells provides a strategy to overcome tolerance in cancer and leukemia patients. A strong alloreactive NK cell-mediated anti-leukemia effect can be induced in haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Also, NK cells can be expanded by several methods for adoptive immunotherapy for hematological malignancies and other malignant diseases. We review the historical role of NK cells and recent approaches to enhance the functions of NK cells, including ex vivo expansion of autologous and allogenic NK cells, checkpoint receptor blockade, and the use of memory-like NK cells and CAR-NK cells, for treatment of hematological malignancies.
Collapse
|
37
|
Baumeister SHC, Rambaldi B, Shapiro RM, Romee R. Key Aspects of the Immunobiology of Haploidentical Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:191. [PMID: 32117310 PMCID: PMC7033970 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from a haploidentical donor is increasingly used and has become a standard donor option for patients lacking an appropriately matched sibling or unrelated donor. Historically, prohibitive immunological barriers resulting from the high degree of HLA-mismatch included graft-vs.-host disease (GVHD) and graft failure. These were overcome with increasingly sophisticated strategies to manipulate the sensitive balance between donor and recipient immune cells. Three different approaches are currently in clinical use: (a) ex vivo T-cell depletion resulting in grafts with defined immune cell content (b) extensive immunosuppression with a T-cell replete graft consisting of G-CSF primed bone marrow and PBSC (GIAC) (c) T-cell replete grafts with post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy). Intriguing studies have recently elucidated the immunologic mechanisms by which PTCy prevents GVHD. Each approach uniquely affects post-transplant immune reconstitution which is critical for the control of post-transplant infections and relapse. NK-cells play a key role in haplo-HCT since they do not mediate GVHD but can successfully mediate a graft-vs.-leukemia effect. This effect is in part regulated by KIR receptors that inhibit NK cell cytotoxic function when binding to the appropriate HLA-class I ligands. In the context of an HLA-class I mismatch in haplo-HCT, lack of inhibition can contribute to NK-cell alloreactivity leading to enhanced anti-leukemic effect. Emerging work reveals immune evasion phenomena such as copy-neutral loss of heterozygosity of the incompatible HLA alleles as one of the major mechanisms of relapse. Relapse and infectious complications remain the leading causes impacting overall survival and are central to scientific advances seeking to improve haplo-HCT. Given that haploidentical donors can typically be readily approached to collect additional stem- or immune cells for the recipient, haplo-HCT represents a unique platform for cell- and immune-based therapies aimed at further reducing relapse and infections. The rapid advancements in our understanding of the immunobiology of haplo-HCT are therefore poised to lead to iterative innovations resulting in further improvement of outcomes with this compelling transplant modality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne H C Baumeister
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Benedetta Rambaldi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Clinical and Experimental Sciences Department, ASST Spedali Civili, University of Pavia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Roman M Shapiro
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rizwan Romee
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Terrén I, Orrantia A, Mikelez-Alonso I, Vitallé J, Zenarruzabeitia O, Borrego F. NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020316. [PMID: 32013092 PMCID: PMC7072691 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes that are able to kill tumor cells without prior sensitization. It has been shown that NK cells play a pivotal role in a variety of cancers, highlighting their relevance in tumor immunosurveillance. NK cell infiltration has been reported in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most frequent kidney cancer in adults, and their presence has been associated with patients’ survival. However, the role of NK cells in this disease is not yet fully understood. In this review, we summarize the biology of NK cells and the mechanisms through which they are able to recognize and kill tumor cells. Furthermore, we discuss the role that NK cells play in renal cell carcinoma, and review current strategies that are being used to boost and exploit their cytotoxic capabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Terrén
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
| | - Ane Orrantia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
| | - Idoia Mikelez-Alonso
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
- CIC biomaGUNE, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Joana Vitallé
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
| | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.T.); (A.O.); (I.M.-A.); (J.V.); (O.Z.)
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-94-600-6000 (ext. 7079)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Gupta AO, Wagner JE. Umbilical Cord Blood Transplants: Current Status and Evolving Therapies. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:570282. [PMID: 33123504 PMCID: PMC7567024 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.570282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic cell transplants using stem cells from umbilical cord blood are used worldwide for the treatment of malignant and non-malignant disorders. Transplant procedures from this stem cell source have shown promising outcomes in successfully treating various hematologic, immunologic, malignant, and inherited metabolic disorders. Rapid availability of these stem cells is an important advantage over other unrelated donor transplants, especially in situations where waiting can adversely affect the prognosis. The umbilical cord blood is rich in CD34+ stem cells, though with a limited cell dose and usually takes longer to engraft. Limitations around this have been addressed by in vivo and ex vivo expansion techniques as well as enhanced engraftment kinetics. Development of adoptive immunotherapy using other components of umbilical cord blood such as regulatory T cells, virus-specific T cells, and natural killer cells has further transformed the field and enhanced the utility of umbilical cord blood unit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish O Gupta
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - John E Wagner
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Mancusi A, Piccinelli S, Velardi A, Pierini A. CD4 +FOXP3 + Regulatory T Cell Therapies in HLA Haploidentical Hematopoietic Transplantation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2901. [PMID: 31921162 PMCID: PMC6927932 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since their discovery CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) represented a promising tool to induce tolerance in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Preclinical models proved that adoptive transfer of Tregs or the use of compounds that can favor their function in vivo are effective for prevention and treatment of graft-vs.-host disease (GvHD). Following these findings, Treg-based therapies have been employed in clinical trials. Adoptive immunotherapy with Tregs effectively prevents GvHD induced by alloreactive T cells in the setting of one HLA haplotype mismatched hematopoietic transplantation. The absence of post transplant pharmacologic immunosuppression unleashes T-cell mediated graft-vs.-tumor (GvT) effect, which results in an unprecedented, almost complete control of leukemia relapse in this setting. In the present review, we will report preclinical studies and clinical trials that demonstrate Treg ability to promote donor engraftment, protect from GvHD and improve GvT effect. We will also discuss new strategies to further enhance in vivo efficacy of Treg-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Mancusi
- Hematology and Clinical Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Sara Piccinelli
- Hematology and Clinical Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Velardi
- Hematology and Clinical Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Pierini
- Hematology and Clinical Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
De Simone G, Mazza EMC, Cassotta A, Davydov AN, Kuka M, Zanon V, De Paoli F, Scamardella E, Metsger M, Roberto A, Pilipow K, Colombo FS, Tenedini E, Tagliafico E, Gattinoni L, Mavilio D, Peano C, Price DA, Singh SP, Farber JM, Serra V, Cucca F, Ferrari F, Orrù V, Fiorillo E, Iannacone M, Chudakov DM, Sallusto F, Lugli E. CXCR3 Identifies Human Naive CD8 + T Cells with Enhanced Effector Differentiation Potential. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2019; 203:3179-3189. [PMID: 31740485 PMCID: PMC6900484 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In mice, the ability of naive T (TN) cells to mount an effector response correlates with TCR sensitivity for self-derived Ags, which can be quantified indirectly by measuring surface expression levels of CD5. Equivalent findings have not been reported previously in humans. We identified two discrete subsets of human CD8+ TN cells, defined by the absence or presence of the chemokine receptor CXCR3. The more abundant CXCR3+ TN cell subset displayed an effector-like transcriptional profile and expressed TCRs with physicochemical characteristics indicative of enhanced interactions with peptide-HLA class I Ags. Moreover, CXCR3+ TN cells frequently produced IL-2 and TNF in response to nonspecific activation directly ex vivo and differentiated readily into Ag-specific effector cells in vitro. Comparative analyses further revealed that human CXCR3+ TN cells were transcriptionally equivalent to murine CXCR3+ TN cells, which expressed high levels of CD5. These findings provide support for the notion that effector differentiation is shaped by heterogeneity in the preimmune repertoire of human CD8+ T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele De Simone
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilia M C Mazza
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Cassotta
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexey N Davydov
- Central European Institute of Technology, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mirela Kuka
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases and Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Zanon
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica De Paoli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eloise Scamardella
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Metsger
- Central European Institute of Technology, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alessandra Roberto
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Karolina Pilipow
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico S Colombo
- Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Tenedini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Tagliafico
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Gattinoni
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
- Regensburg Center for Interventional Immunology, University Regensburg and University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Clelia Peano
- Division of Genetic and Biomedical Research, UoS Milan, National Research Council, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Genomic Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - David A Price
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
- Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
| | - Satya P Singh
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Joshua M Farber
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | | | | | | | - Valeria Orrù
- IRGB, National Research Council, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Iannacone
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases and Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute and Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Dmitriy M Chudakov
- Central European Institute of Technology, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Shemyakin and Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, 117997 Moscow, Russia; and
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Federica Sallusto
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Enrico Lugli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy;
- Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bruni E, Cazzetta V, Donadon M, Cimino M, Torzilli G, Spata G, Leonardi G, Dieli F, Mikulak J, Mavilio D. Chemotherapy accelerates immune-senescence and functional impairments of Vδ2 pos T cells in elderly patients affected by liver metastatic colorectal cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2019; 7:347. [PMID: 31829255 PMCID: PMC6907143 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-019-0825-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human (gamma delta) γδ T cells are unconventional innate-like lymphocytes displaying a broad array of anti-tumor activities with promising perspectives in cancer immunotherapy. In this context, Vδ2pos T cells represent the preferential target of several immunotherapy protocols against solid tumors. However, the impact of both aging and chemotherapy (CHT) on Vδ2pos T cells is still unknown. The present study evaluates with multi-parametric flow cytometry the frequencies, terminal differentiation, senescence and effector-functions of peripheral blood and tumor infiltrating Vδ2pos T cells purified from liver metastases (CLM) of patients affected by colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to those of sex- and age-matched healthy donors. The peripheral blood of CLM patients underwent CHT is characterized by decreased amounts of Vδ2pos T cells showing a relative increase of terminally-differentiated CD27neg/CD45RApos (TEMRA) cells. The enrichment of this latter subset is associated with an increased expression of the senescent marker CD57. The acquisition of CD57 on TEMRA Vδ2pos T cells is also coupled with impairments in cytotoxicity and production of TNF-α and IFN-γ. These features resemble the acquisition of an immune-senescent profile by Vδ2pos T cells from CLM patients that received CHT, a phenomenon that is also associated with the loss of the co-stimulatory marker CD28 and with the induced expression of CD16. The group of CLM patients underwent CHT and older than 60 years old showed higher frequencies of CD57pos and TEMRA Vδ2pos T cells. Similar results were found for tumor infiltrating Vδ2pos T cell subset purified from CLM specimens of patients treated with CHT. The toxicity of CHT regimens also affects the homeostasis of Vδ2pos T cells by inducing higher frequencies of circulating CD57pos TEMRA subset in CLM underwent CHT and younger than 60 years old. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the enrichment of senescent Vδ2pos T cells in CLM patients is not only induced by patients’ aging but also by the toxicity of CHT that further accelerates the accumulation of CD57pos TEMRA cells highly dysfunctional in their anti-tumor activities. These results are important to both predict the clinical outcome of CLM and to optimize those protocols of cell cancer immunotherapy employing unconventional Vδ2pos T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bruni
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Cazzetta
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas University, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Cimino
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas University, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas University, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Spata
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Leonardi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Dieli
- Central Laboratory for Advanced Diagnosis and Biomedical Research, Palermo, Italy.,Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advances Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni, 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Minetto P, Guolo F, Pesce S, Greppi M, Obino V, Ferretti E, Sivori S, Genova C, Lemoli RM, Marcenaro E. Harnessing NK Cells for Cancer Treatment. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2836. [PMID: 31867006 PMCID: PMC6908847 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last years, natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for solid tumors and hematological malignancies. NK cells are innate lymphocytes with an array of functional competences, including anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-graft-vs.-host disease potential. The intriguing idea of harnessing such potent innate immune system effectors for cancer treatment led to the development of clinical trials based on the adoptive therapy of NK cells or on the use of monoclonal antibodies targeting the main NK cell immune checkpoints. Indeed, checkpoint immunotherapy that targets inhibitory receptors of T cells, reversing their functional blocking, marked a breakthrough in anticancer therapy, opening new approaches for cancer immunotherapy and resulted in extensive research on immune checkpoints. However, the clinical efficacy of T cell-based immunotherapy presents a series of limitations, including the inability of T cells to recognize and kill HLA-Ineg tumor cells. For these reasons, new strategies for cancer immunotherapy are now focusing on NK cells. Blockade with NK cell checkpoint inhibitors that reverse their functional block may overcome the limitations of T cell-based immunotherapy, mainly against HLA-Ineg tumor targets. Here, we discuss recent anti-tumor approaches based on mAb-mediated blocking of immune checkpoints (either restricted to NK cells or shared with T cells), used either as a single agent or in combination with other compounds, that have demonstrated promising clinical responses in both solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Minetto
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genova, Italy
| | - Fabio Guolo
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Greppi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Valentina Obino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Ferretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Carlo Genova
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genova, Italy
| | - Roberto Massimo Lemoli
- Clinic of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genova, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zaghi E, Calvi M, Di Vito C, Mavilio D. Innate Immune Responses in the Outcome of Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation to Cure Hematologic Malignancies. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2794. [PMID: 31849972 PMCID: PMC6892976 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of allogeneic transplant platforms, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) represents one of the latest and most promising curative strategies for patients affected by high-risk hematologic malignancies. Indeed, this platform ensures a suitable stem cell source immediately available for virtually any patents in need. Moreover, the establishment in recipients of a state of immunologic tolerance toward grafted hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) remarkably improves the clinical outcome of this transplant procedure in terms of overall and disease free survival. However, the HLA-mismatch between donors and recipients has not been yet fully exploited in order to optimize the Graft vs. Leukemia effect. Furthermore, the efficacy of haplo-HSCT is currently hampered by several life-threatening side effects including the onset of Graft vs. Host Disease (GvHD) and the occurrence of opportunistic viral infections. In this context, the quality and the kinetic of the immune cell reconstitution (IR) certainly play a major role and several experimental efforts have been greatly endorsed to better understand and accelerate the post-transplant recovery of a fully competent immune system in haplo-HSCT. In particular, the IR of innate immune system is receiving a growing interest, as it recovers much earlier than T and B cells and it is able to rapidly exert protective effects against both tumor relapses, GvHD and the onset of life-threatening opportunistic infections. Herein, we review our current knowledge in regard to the kinetic and clinical impact of Natural Killer (NK), γδ and Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) IRs in both allogeneic and haplo-HSCT. The present paper also provides an overview of those new therapeutic strategies currently being implemented to boost the alloreactivity of the above-mentioned innate immune effectors in order to ameliorate the prognosis of patients affected by hematologic malignancies and undergone transplant procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Zaghi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Calvi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Fisicaro P, Rossi M, Vecchi A, Acerbi G, Barili V, Laccabue D, Montali I, Zecca A, Penna A, Missale G, Ferrari C, Boni C. The Good and the Bad of Natural Killer Cells in Virus Control: Perspective for Anti-HBV Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205080. [PMID: 31614928 PMCID: PMC6834135 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune modulatory therapies are widely believed to represent potential therapeutic strategies for chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB). Among the cellular targets for immune interventions, Natural Killer (NK) cells represent possible candidates because they have a key role in anti-viral control by producing cytokines and by exerting cytotoxic functions against virus-infected cells. However, in patients with chronic hepatitis B, NK cells have been described to be more pathogenic than protective with preserved cytolytic activity but with a poor capacity to produce anti-viral cytokines. In addition, NK cells can exert a regulatory activity and possibly suppress adaptive immune responses in the setting of persistent viral infections. Consequently, a potential drawback of NK-cell targeted modulatory interventions is that they can potentiate the suppressive NK cell effect on virus-specific T cells, which further causes impairment of exhausted anti-viral T cell functions. Thus, clinically useful NK-cell modulatory strategies should be not only suited to improve positive anti-viral NK cell functions but also to abrogate T cell suppression by NK cell-mediated T cell killing. This review outlines the main NK cell features with a particular focus on CHB infection. It describes different mechanisms involved in NK-T cell interplay as well as how NK cells can have positive anti-viral effector functions and negative suppressive effects on T cells activity. This review discusses how modulation of their balance can have potential therapeutic implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Fisicaro
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Marzia Rossi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Andrea Vecchi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Greta Acerbi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Valeria Barili
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Diletta Laccabue
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Montali
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Zecca
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Amalia Penna
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Missale
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Carlo Ferrari
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Carolina Boni
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda-Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pesce S, Belgrano V, Greppi M, Carlomagno S, Squillario M, Barla A, Della Chiesa M, Di Domenico S, Mavilio D, Moretta L, Candiani S, Sivori S, De Cian F, Marcenaro E. Different Features of Tumor-Associated NK Cells in Patients With Low-Grade or High-Grade Peritoneal Carcinomatosis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1963. [PMID: 31497016 PMCID: PMC6712073 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is a rare disease defined as diffused implantation of neoplastic cells in the peritoneal cavity. This clinical picture occurs during the evolution of peritoneal tumors, and it is the main cause of morbidity and mortality of patients affected by these pathologies, though cytoreductive surgery with heated intra-peritoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is yielding promising results. In the present study, we evaluated whether the tumor microenvironment of low-grade and high-grade PC could affect the phenotypic and functional features and thus the anti-tumor potential of NK cells. We show that while in the peritoneal fluid (PF) of low-grade PC most CD56dim NK cells show a relatively immature phenotype (NKG2A+KIR-CD57-CD16dim), in the PF of high-grade PC NK cells are, in large majority, mature (CD56dimKIR+CD57+CD16bright). Furthermore, in low-grade PC, PF-NK cells are characterized by a sharp down-regulation of some activating receptors, primarily NKp30 and DNAM-1, while, in high-grade PC, PF-NK cells display a higher expression of the PD-1 inhibitory checkpoint. The compromised phenotype observed in low-grade PC patients corresponds to a functional impairment. On the other hand, in the high-grade PC patients PF-NK cells show much more important defects that only partially reflect the compromised phenotype detected. These data suggest that the PC microenvironment may contribute to tumor escape from immune surveillance by inducing different NK cell impaired features leading to altered anti-tumor activity. Notably, after CRS/HIPEC treatment, the altered NK cell phenotype of a patient with a low-grade disease and favorable prognosis was reverted to a normal one. Our present data offer a clue for the development of new immunotherapeutic strategies capable of restoring the NK-mediated anti-tumor responses in association with the CRS/HIPEC treatment to increase the effectiveness of the current therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Valerio Belgrano
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University General Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marco Greppi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Margherita Squillario
- Department of Informatic Bioengineering, Robotic and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Barla
- Department of Informatic Bioengineering, Robotic and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mariella Della Chiesa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Domenico
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University General Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Department of Immunology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Candiani
- Department of Earth Science, Environment and Life, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Franco De Cian
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University General Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Di Vito C, Mikulak J, Mavilio D. On the Way to Become a Natural Killer Cell. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1812. [PMID: 31428098 PMCID: PMC6688484 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes playing pivotal roles in host defense and immune-surveillance. The homeostatic modulation of germ-line encoded/non-rearranged activating and inhibitory NK cell receptors (NKRs) determines the capability of these innate lymphocytes to either spare "self" cells or to kill viral-infected, tumor-transformed and heterologous cell targets. However, despite being discovered more than 40 years ago, several aspects of NK cell biology remain unknown or are still being debated. In particular, our knowledge of human NK cell ontogenesis and differentiation is still in its infancy as the majority of our experimental evidence on this topic mainly comes from findings obtained in vitro or with animal models in vivo. Although both the generation and the maintenance of human NK cells are sustained by hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), the precise site(s) of NK cell development are still poorly defined. Indeed, HSCs and hematopoietic precursors are localized in different anatomical compartments that also change their ontogenic commitments before and after birth as well as in aging. Currently, the main site of NK cell generation and maturation in adulthood is considered the bone marrow, where their interactions with stromal cells, cytokines, growth factors, and other soluble molecules support and drive maturation. Different sequential stages of NK cell development have been identified on the basis of the differential expression of specific markers and NKRs as well as on the acquisition of specific effector-functions. All these phenotypic and functional features are key in inducing and regulating homing, activation and tissue-residency of NK cells in different human anatomic sites, where different homeostatic mechanisms ensure a perfect balance between immune tolerance and immune-surveillance. The present review summarizes our current knowledge on human NK cell ontogenesis and on the related pathways orchestrating a proper maturation, functions, and distributions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Carlino C, Rippo MR, Lazzarini R, Monsurrò V, Morrone S, Angelini S, Trotta E, Stabile H, Bastianelli C, Albertini MC, Olivieri F, Procopio A, Santoni A, Gismondi A. Differential microRNA expression between decidual and peripheral blood natural killer cells in early pregnancy. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2184-2195. [PMID: 30388265 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Have decidual natural killer (dNK) cells a different microRNA (miRNA or miR) expression pattern compared to NK cells circulating in the peripheral blood (pb) of healthy pregnant women in the first trimester of gestation? SUMMARY ANSWER dNK cells have a unique miRNA profile, showing exclusive expression of a set of miRNAs and significant up- or down-regulation of most of the miRNAs shared with pbNK cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY dNK cells differ from pbNK cells both phenotypically and functionally, and their origin is still debated. Many studies have indicated that miRNAs regulate several important aspects of NK cell biology, such as development, activation and effector functions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Decidua basalis and peripheral blood specimens were collected from women (n = 7) undergoing voluntary termination of gestation in the first trimester of pregnancy. dNK and pbNK cells were then highly purified by cell sorting. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS miRNAs expression was analysed by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR)-based arrays using RNA purified from freshly isolated and highly purified pbNK and dNK cells. Results from arrays were validated by qRT-PCR assays. The bioinformatics tool ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) was applied to determine the cellular network targeted by validated miRNAs and the correlated biological functions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Herein, we identified the most differentially expressed miRNAs in NK cells isolated from peripheral blood and uterine decidua of pregnant women. We found that 36 miRNAs were expressed only in dNK cells and two miRNAs only in pbNK cells. Moreover, 48 miRNAs were commonly expressed by both NK cell preparations although at different levels: 28 were upregulated in dNK cells, while 15 were downregulated compared to pbNK cells. Validation of a selected set (n = 11) of these miRNAs confirmed the differential expression of nine miRNAs: miR-10b and miR-214 expressed only in dNK cells and miR-200a-3p expressed only in pbNK cells; miR-130b-3p, miR-125a-5p, miR-212-3p and miR-454 were upregulated while miR-210-3p and miR-132 were downregulated in dNK cells compared to pbNK cells. IPA network analysis identified a single network connecting all the miRNAs as well as their significant involvement in several classes of functions: 'Organismal injury, Reproductive system disease, Inflammatory disease' and 'Cellular development'. These miRNAs target molecules such as argonaute 2, tumour protein p53, insulin and other genes that belong to the same network and significantly influence cell differentiation and pregnancy. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION In the present study, the cellular network and biological functions modulated by miRNAs differentially expressed in dNK and pbNK cells were identified by IPA considering only molecules and relationships that were with confidence 'experimentally observed' in leucocytes. The decidual and pbNK cells that were analysed here are a heterogeneous population and further study will help to disentangle whether there are differences in miRNA production by the different subsets of NK cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study describing a different miRNA expression profile in dNK cells compared to matched pbNK cells during the first trimester of pregnancy. Our findings improved the body of knowledge on dNK cell biology and strongly suggest further investigation into the roles of miRNAs that are differentially expressed in human dNK compared to pbNK cells. Our results suggest that specific miRNAs can modulate dNK cell origin and functions, highlighting a potential role of this miRNA signature in human development and diseases. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from the Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, the European NoE EMBIC within FP6 (Contract number LSHN-CT-2004-512040), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, and Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ricerche Universitarie), and from Università Politecnica delle Marche. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Carlino
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - M R Rippo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - R Lazzarini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - V Monsurrò
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Università Degli Studi di Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - S Morrone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - S Angelini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Trotta
- UCSF Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - H Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Bastianelli
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Urology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - M C Albertini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', Urbino, Italy
| | - F Olivieri
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Center of Clinical Pathology and innovative therapy, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Procopio
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Center of Clinical Pathology and innovative therapy, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur-Italia, Rome, Italy
| | - A Gismondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Di Vito C, Mikulak J, Zaghi E, Pesce S, Marcenaro E, Mavilio D. NK cells to cure cancer. Semin Immunol 2019; 41:101272. [PMID: 31085114 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes able to mediate immune-surveillance and clearance of viral infected and tumor-transformed cells. Growing experimental and clinical evidence highlighted a dual role of NK cells either in the control of cancer development/progression or in promoting the onset of immune-suppressant tumor microenvironments. Indeed, several mechanisms of NK cell-mediated tumor escape have been described and these includes cancer-induced aberrant expression of activating and inhibitory receptors (i.e. NK cell immune checkpoints), impairments of NK cell migration to tumor sites and altered NK cell effector-functions. These phenomena highly contribute to tumor progression and metastasis formation. In this review, we discuss the latest insights on those NK cell receptors and related molecules that are currently being implemented in clinics either as possible prognostic factors or therapeutic targets to unleash NK cell anti-tumor effector-functions in vivo. Moreover, we address here the major recent advances in regard to the genetic modification and ex vivo expansion of anti-tumor specific NK cells used in innovative adoptive cellular transfer approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Zaghi
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Pesce
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Mikulak J, Bruni E, Oriolo F, Di Vito C, Mavilio D. Hepatic Natural Killer Cells: Organ-Specific Sentinels of Liver Immune Homeostasis and Physiopathology. Front Immunol 2019; 10:946. [PMID: 31114585 PMCID: PMC6502999 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is considered a preferential tissue for NK cells residency. In humans, almost 50% of all intrahepatic lymphocytes are NK cells that are strongly imprinted in a liver-specific manner and show a broad spectrum of cellular heterogeneity. Hepatic NK (he-NK) cells play key roles in tuning liver immune response in both physiological and pathological conditions. Therefore, there is a pressing need to comprehensively characterize human he-NK cells to better understand the related mechanisms regulating their effector-functions within the dynamic balance between immune-tolerance and immune-surveillance. This is of particular relevance in the liver that is the only solid organ whose parenchyma is constantly challenged on daily basis by millions of foreign antigens drained from the gut. Therefore, the present review summarizes our current knowledge on he-NK cells in the light of the latest discoveries in the field of NK cell biology and clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Bruni
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Oriolo
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|