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Fayyaz A, Haqqi A, Khan R, Irfan M, Khan K, Reiner Ž, Sharifi-Rad J, Calina D. Revolutionizing cancer treatment: the rise of personalized immunotherapies. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:756. [PMID: 39692978 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01638-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 12/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Interest in biological therapy for cancer has surged due to its precise targeting of cancer cells and minimized impact on surrounding healthy tissues. This review discusses various biological cancer therapies, highlighting advanced alternatives over conventional chemotherapy alone. It explores DNA and RNA-based vaccines, T-cell modifications, adoptive cell transfer, CAR T cell therapy, angiogenesis inhibitors, and the combination of immunotherapy with chemotherapy, offering a holistic view of the potential in cancer treatment. Additionally, it discusses the role of nanotechnology in increasing the efficacy of cancer-targeting drugs, as well as cytokine and immunoconjugate therapies for bolstering immune system effectiveness against neoplastic cells. The potential of gene potential for precise targeting of cancer-linked genes and the application of oncolytic viruses against virus-associated cancers are also discussed. The review identifies significant advancements in the targeted treatment of cancer by biological methods. It acknowledges the challenges, including drug resistance and the need for high specificity in certain therapies, while also highlighting the effectiveness of cancer vaccines, modified T-cells, and oncolytic viruses. Biological therapies are a promising frontier in cancer treatment, offering the potential for more personalized and effective therapeutic strategies. Despite existing challenges, ongoing research and clinical trials are fundamental for overcoming current limitations and enhancing the efficacy of biological therapies in cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Fayyaz
- Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Aleena Haqqi
- School of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Minhaj University Lahore (MUL), Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Rashid Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Punjab University College of Pharmacy University of Punjab Lahore, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Irfan
- Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Khushbukhat Khan
- Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Trials360, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Željko Reiner
- Department for Metabolic Diseases, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Universidad Espíritu Santo, Samborondón, 092301, Ecuador.
- Centro de Estudios Tecnológicos, Universitarios del Golfo, Veracruz, Mexico.
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
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2
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Subbarayan R, Srinivasan D, Balakrishnan R, Kumar A, Usmani SS, Srivastava N. DNA damage response and neoantigens: A favorable target for triple-negative breast cancer immunotherapy and vaccine development. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 389:104-152. [PMID: 39396845 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature and limited therapeutic options. The interplay between DNA damage response (DDR) mechanisms and the emergence of neoantigens represents a promising avenue for developing targeted immunotherapeutic strategies and vaccines for TNBC. The DDR is a complex network of cellular mechanisms designed to maintain genomic integrity. In TNBC, where genetic instability is a hallmark, dysregulation of DDR components plays a pivotal role in tumorigenesis and progression. This review explores the intricate relationship between DDR and neoantigens, shedding light on the potential vulnerabilities of TNBC cells. Neoantigens, arising from somatic mutations in cancer cells, represent unique antigens that can be recognized by the immune system. TNBC's propensity for genomic instability leads to an increased mutational burden, consequently yielding a rich repertoire of neoantigens. The convergence of DDR and neoantigens in TNBC offers a distinctive opportunity for immunotherapeutic targeting. Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system to selectively target cancer cells. The unique immunogenicity conferred by DDR-related neoantigens in TNBC positions them as ideal targets for immunotherapeutic interventions. This review also explores various immunotherapeutic modalities, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), adoptive cell therapies, and cancer vaccines, that leverage the DDR and neoantigen interplay to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, the potential for developing vaccines targeting DDR-related neoantigens opens new frontiers in preventive and therapeutic strategies for TNBC. The rational design of vaccines tailored to the individual mutational landscape of TNBC holds promise for precision medicine approaches. In conclusion, the convergence of DDR and neoantigens in TNBC presents a compelling rationale for the development of innovative immunotherapies and vaccines. Understanding and targeting these interconnected processes may pave the way for personalized and effective interventions, offering new hope for patients grappling with the challenges posed by TNBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajasekaran Subbarayan
- Centre for Advanced Biotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicine, FAHS, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, India
| | - Dhasarathdev Srinivasan
- Centre for Advanced Biotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicine, FAHS, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, India
| | - Ranjith Balakrishnan
- Centre for Advanced Biotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicine, FAHS, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, India
| | - Ajeet Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington university School of Medicine, St louis, MO, United States
| | - Salman Sadullah Usmani
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
| | - Nityanand Srivastava
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
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3
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Machaca V, Goyzueta V, Cruz MG, Sejje E, Pilco LM, López J, Túpac Y. Transformers meets neoantigen detection: a systematic literature review. J Integr Bioinform 2024; 21:jib-2023-0043. [PMID: 38960869 PMCID: PMC11377031 DOI: 10.1515/jib-2023-0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunology offers a new alternative to traditional cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. One notable alternative is the development of personalized vaccines based on cancer neoantigens. Moreover, Transformers are considered a revolutionary development in artificial intelligence with a significant impact on natural language processing (NLP) tasks and have been utilized in proteomics studies in recent years. In this context, we conducted a systematic literature review to investigate how Transformers are applied in each stage of the neoantigen detection process. Additionally, we mapped current pipelines and examined the results of clinical trials involving cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Erika Sejje
- Universidad Nacional de San Agustín, Arequipa, Perú
| | | | | | - Yván Túpac
- 187038 Universidad Católica San Pablo , Arequipa, Perú
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4
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Miliotou AN, Georgiou-Siafis SK, Ntenti C, Pappas IS, Papadopoulou LC. Recruiting In Vitro Transcribed mRNA against Cancer Immunotherapy: A Contemporary Appraisal of the Current Landscape. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9181-9214. [PMID: 37998753 PMCID: PMC10670245 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 100 innovative in vitro transcribed (IVT)-mRNAs are presently undergoing clinical trials, with a projected substantial impact on the pharmaceutical market in the near future. Τhe idea behind this is that after the successful cellular internalization of IVT-mRNAs, they are subsequently translated into proteins with therapeutic or prophylactic relevance. Simultaneously, cancer immunotherapy employs diverse strategies to mobilize the immune system in the battle against cancer. Therefore, in this review, the fundamental principles of IVT-mRNA to its recruitment in cancer immunotherapy, are discussed and analyzed. More specifically, this review paper focuses on the development of mRNA vaccines, the exploitation of neoantigens, as well as Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cells, showcasing their clinical applications and the ongoing trials for the development of next-generation immunotherapeutics. Furthermore, this study investigates the synergistic potential of combining the CAR immunotherapy and the IVT-mRNAs by introducing our research group novel, patented delivery method that utilizes the Protein Transduction Domain (PTD) technology to transduce the IVT-mRNAs encoding the CAR of interest into the Natural Killer (NK)-92 cells, highlighting the potential for enhancing the CAR NK cell potency, efficiency, and bioenergetics. While IVT-mRNA technology brings exciting progress to cancer immunotherapy, several challenges and limitations must be acknowledged, such as safety, toxicity, and delivery issues. This comprehensive exploration of IVT-mRNA technology, in line with its applications in cancer therapeutics, offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges in the evolving landscape of cancer immunotherapy, setting the stage for future advancements in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Androulla N. Miliotou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Department of Health Sciences, KES College, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 1700 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sofia K. Georgiou-Siafis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Charikleia Ntenti
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- 1st Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Pappas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Lefkothea C. Papadopoulou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
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Mireștean CC, Iancu RI, Iancu DPT. Active Immune Phenotype in Head and Neck Cancer: Reevaluating the Iso-Effect Fractionation Based on the Linear Quadratic (LQ) Model-A Narrative Review. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:4805-4816. [PMID: 37232820 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30050362] [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: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Altered fractionation concepts and especially moderate hypo-fractionation are evaluated as alternatives to standard treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), associated with or not concurrent with or sequential to chemotherapy. The calculation of the iso-equivalent dose regimens has as its starting point the linear quadratic (LQ) formalism traditionally based on the "4Rs" of radiobiology. The higher rates of therapeutic failure after radiotherapy of HNSCC are associated with the heterogeneity of radio-sensibility. The identification of genetic signatures and radio-resistance scores aims to improve the therapeutic ratio of radiotherapy and to conceptualize personalized fractionation schemes. The new data regarding the involvement of the sixth "R" of radiobiology in HNSCC, especially for the HPV-driven subtype, but also for the "immune active" minority of HPV-negative HNSCCs, bring to the fore a multifactorial variation of the α/β ratio. The involvement of the antitumor immune response and the dose/fractionation/volume factors as well as the therapeutic sequence in the case of new multimodal treatments including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) could be included as an additional term in the quadratic linear formalism especially for hypo-fractionation regimens. This term should take into account the dual immunomodulatory effect (immunosuppressant and stimulator of antitumor immunity) of radiotherapy, which varies from case to case and can bring benefit or a detrimental effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camil Ciprian Mireștean
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
- Railways Clinical Hospital Iasi, Department of Surgery, 700506 Iași, Romania
| | - Roxana Irina Iancu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Oral Pathology Department, "Gr. T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, "St. Spiridon" Emergency Universitary Hospital, 700111 Iași, Romania
| | - Dragoș Petru Teodor Iancu
- Faculty of Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy Department, "Gr. T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Regional Institute of Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, 700483 Iași, Romania
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Neoantigens: promising targets for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:9. [PMID: 36604431 PMCID: PMC9816309 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 232.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in neoantigen research have accelerated the development and regulatory approval of tumor immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy and antibody-based therapies, especially for solid tumors. Neoantigens are newly formed antigens generated by tumor cells as a result of various tumor-specific alterations, such as genomic mutation, dysregulated RNA splicing, disordered post-translational modification, and integrated viral open reading frames. Neoantigens are recognized as non-self and trigger an immune response that is not subject to central and peripheral tolerance. The quick identification and prediction of tumor-specific neoantigens have been made possible by the advanced development of next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic technologies. Compared to tumor-associated antigens, the highly immunogenic and tumor-specific neoantigens provide emerging targets for personalized cancer immunotherapies, and serve as prospective predictors for tumor survival prognosis and immune checkpoint blockade responses. The development of cancer therapies will be aided by understanding the mechanism underlying neoantigen-induced anti-tumor immune response and by streamlining the process of neoantigen-based immunotherapies. This review provides an overview on the identification and characterization of neoantigens and outlines the clinical applications of prospective immunotherapeutic strategies based on neoantigens. We also explore their current status, inherent challenges, and clinical translation potential.
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7
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Nanotechnology-Based Nucleic Acid Vaccines for Treatment of Ovarian Cancer. Pharm Res 2023; 40:123-144. [PMID: 36376606 PMCID: PMC9663189 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03434-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Anticancer vaccines represent a promising approach for effective treatment of cancer and along with recent advantages of nucleic acid-based vaccines for other diseases form a prospective and potentially efficacious direction of the research, development and clinical applications. Despite the ongoing several clinical trials of mRNA vaccines for the treatment of various types of cancer, to-date no cancer vaccines were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The present review analyzes and summarizes major approaches for treating of different forms of ovarian cancer including mRNA-based vaccines as well as nanotechnology-based approaches for their delivery.
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8
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Tang K, Zhang J, Cao H, Xiao G, Wang Z, Zhang X, Zhang N, Wu W, Zhang H, Wang Q, Xu H, Cheng Q. Identification of CD73 as a Novel Biomarker Encompassing the Tumor Microenvironment, Prognosis, and Therapeutic Responses in Various Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5663. [PMID: 36428755 PMCID: PMC9688912 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CD73 is essential in promoting tumor growth by prohibiting anti-tumor immunity in many cancer types. While the mechanism remains largely unknown, our paper comprehensively confirmed the onco-immunological characteristics of CD73 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of pan-cancer. This paper explored the expression pattern, mutational profile, prognostic value, tumor immune infiltration, and response to immunotherapy of CD73 in a continuous cohort of cancers through various computational tools. The co-expression of CD73 on cancer cells, immune cells, and stromal cells in the TME was also detected. Especially, we examined the correlation between CD73 and CD8+ (a marker of T cell), CD68+ (a marker of macrophage), and CD163+ (a marker of M2 macrophage) cells using multiplex immunofluorescence staining of tissue microarrays. CD73 expression is significantly associated with a patient's prognosis and could be a promising predictor of these cancers. High CD73 levels are strongly linked to immune infiltrations, neoantigens, and immune checkpoint expression in the TME. In particular, enrichment signaling pathway analysis demonstrated that CD73 was obviously related to activation pathways of immune cells, including T cells, macrophages, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Meanwhile, single-cell sequencing algorithms found that CD73 is predominantly co-expressed on cancer cells, CAFs, M2 macrophages, and T cells in several cancers. In addition, we explored the cellular communication among 14 cell types in glioblastoma (GBM) based on CD73 expression. Based on the expression of CD73 as well as macrophage and T cell markers, we predicted the methylation and enrichment pathways of these markers in pan-cancer. Furthermore, a lot of therapeutic molecules sensitive to these markers were predicted. Finally, potential anticancer inhibitors, immunotherapies, and gene therapy responses targeting CD73 were identified from a series of immunotherapy cohorts. CD73 is closely linked to clinical prognosis and immune infiltration in many cancers. Targeting CD73-dependent signaling pathways may be a promising therapeutic strategy for future tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Discipline Construction, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jingwei Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, The Second People’s Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha 410007, China
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Gelei Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Xun Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- One-Third Lab, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Wantao Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Qianrong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Central South University, Ministry of Education, Changsha 410011, China
- Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China
| | - Huilan Xu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha 410008, China
- Clinical Diagnosis and Therapy Center for Glioma of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
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Targeting CXCR4 and CD47 Receptors: An Overview of New and Old Molecules for a Biological Personalized Anticancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012499. [PMID: 36293358 PMCID: PMC9604048 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological therapy, with its multifaceted applications, has revolutionized the treatment of tumors, mainly due to its ability to exclusively target cancer cells and reduce the adverse effects on normal tissues. This review focuses on the therapies targeting the CXCR4 and CD47 receptors. We surveyed the results of early clinical trials testing compounds classified as nonpeptides, small peptides, CXCR4 antagonists or specific antibodies whose activity reduces or completely blocks the intracellular signaling pathways and cell proliferation. We then examined antibodies and fusion proteins against CD47, the receptor that acts as a “do not eat me” signal to phagocytes escaping immune surveillance. Despite these molecules being tested in early clinical trials, some drawbacks are emerging that impair their use in practice. Finally, we examined the ImmunoGenic Surrender mechanism that involves crosstalk and co-internalization of CXCR4 and CD47 upon engagement of CXCR4 by ligands or other molecules. The favorable effect of such compounds is dual as CD47 surface reduction impact on the immune response adds to the block of CXCR4 proliferative potential. These results suggest that a combination of different therapeutic approaches has more beneficial effects on patients’ survival and may pave the way for new accomplishments in personalized anticancer therapy.
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Qu Y, Shen F, Zhang Z, Wang Q, Huang H, Xu Y, Li Q, Zhu X, Sun L. Applications of Functional DNA Materials in Immunomodulatory Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:45079-45095. [PMID: 36171537 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c13768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, nanoscale or microscale functional materials derived from DNA have shown great potential for immunotherapy as superior delivery carriers. DNA nanostructures with excellent programmability and addressability enable the precise assembly of molecules or nanoparticles. DNA hydrogels have predictable structures and adjustable mechanical strength, thus being advantageous in controllable release of cargos. In addition, utilizing systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment technology, a variety of DNA aptamers have been screened for specific recognition of ions, molecules, and even cells. Moreover, a wide variety of chemical modifications can further enrich the function of DNA. The unique advantages of functional DNA materials make them extremely attractive in immunomodulation. Recently, functional DNA materials-based immunotherapy has shown great potential in fighting against many diseases like cancer, viral infection, and inflammation. Therefore, in this review, we focus on discussing the progress of the applications of functional DNA materials in immunotherapy; before that, we also summarize the characteristics of the functional DNA materials descried above. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future opportunities of functional DNA materials in immunomodulatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Qu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Fengyun Shen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Hao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Yufei Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Lele Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
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11
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Neoantigens and their clinical applications in human gastrointestinal cancers. World J Surg Oncol 2022; 20:321. [PMID: 36171610 PMCID: PMC9520945 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-022-02776-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tumor-specific neoantigens are ideal targets for cancer immunotherapy. As research findings have proved, neoantigen-specific T cell activity is immunotherapy’s most important determinant. Main text There is sufficient evidence showing the role of neoantigens in clinically successful immunotherapy, providing a justification for targeting. Because of the significance of the pre-existing anti-tumor immune response for the immune checkpoint inhibitor, it is believed that personalized neoantigen-based therapy may be an imperative approach for cancer therapy. Thus, intensive attention is given to strategies targeting neoantigens for the significant impact with other immunotherapies, such as the immune checkpoint inhibitor. Today, several algorithms are designed and optimized based on Next-Generation Sequencing and public databases, including dbPepNeo, TANTIGEN 2.0, Cancer Antigenic Peptide Database, NEPdb, and CEDAR databases for predicting neoantigens in silico that stimulates the development of T cell therapies, cancer vaccine, and other ongoing immunotherapy approaches. Conclusions In this review, we deliberated the current developments in understanding and recognition of the immunogenicity of newly found gastrointestinal neoantigens as well as their functions in immunotherapies and cancer detection. We also described how neoantigens are being developed and how they might be used in the treatment of GI malignancies.
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12
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Zhou X, Wang X. Radioimmunotherapy in HPV-Associated Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1990. [PMID: 36009537 PMCID: PMC9405566 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
HPV-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a cancer entity with unique biological and clinical characteristics that requires more personalized treatment strategies. As the backbone of conventional therapeutics, radiation is now harnessed to synergize with immunotherapy in multiple malignancies. Accumulating preclinical and clinical data have suggested the potential of radioimmunotherapy in eliciting local and systemic anti-tumor response via direct killing of tumor cells and immunogenic cell death. However, this effect remains uncertain in HPV-associated HNSCC. Owing to its intrinsic radiosensitivity and distinct tumor microenvironment, HPV-associated HNSCC may represent a good candidate for radioimmunotherapy. In this review, we provide a detailed illustration of the biology, the genomic features, and immune landscapes of HPV-associated HNSCC that support the synergism between radiation and immune agents. The interaction between radiotherapy and immunotherapy is described. We also highlight the present evidence as well as ongoing trials using different combination strategies in the recurrent/metastatic or definitive settings. In addition, we have summarized the challenges and outlook for future trial design, with special emphasis on radiotherapy optimization and novel therapeutic options to incorporate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaoshen Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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13
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Kasaragod S, Kotimoole CN, Gurtoo S, Keshava Prasad TS, Gowda H, Modi PK. A computational workflow for predicting cancer neo-antigens. Bioinformation 2022; 18:214-218. [PMID: 36518130 PMCID: PMC9722413 DOI: 10.6026/97320630018214] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Neo-antigens presented on cell surface play a pivotal role in the success of immunotherapies. Peptides derived from mutant proteins are thought to be the primary source of neo-antigens presented on the surface of cancer cells. Mutation data from cancer genome sequencing is often used to predict cancer neo-antigens. However, this strategy is associated with significant false positives as many coding mutations may not be expressed at the protein level. Hence, we describe a computational workflow to integrate genomic and proteomic data to predictpotential neo-antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Kasaragod
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Chinmaya Narayana Kotimoole
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Sumrati Gurtoo
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | | | - Harsha Gowda
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore, 560066, India
| | - Prashant Kumar Modi
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
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14
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Watanabe S, Yuba E, Akazawa T, Wijewardana V, Kakihara Y, Azuma A, Hagimori K, Kanegi R, Hatoya S, Inoue N, Inaba T, Sugiura K. Potent adjuvant effect elicited for tumor immunotherapy by a liposome conjugated pH-sensitive polymer and dendritic cell-targeting Toll-like-receptor ligand. Vaccine 2022; 40:1448-1457. [PMID: 35131134 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.01.048] [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: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The generation of DCs with augmented functions is a strategy for obtaining satisfactory clinical outcomes in tumor immunotherapy. We developed a novel synthetic adjuvant comprising a liposome conjugated with a DC-targeting Toll-like-receptor ligand and a pH-sensitive polymer for augmenting cross-presentation. In an in vitro study using mouse DCs, these liposomes were selectively incorporated into DCs, significantly enhanced DC function and activated immune responses to present an epitope of the incorporated antigen on the major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. Immunization of mice with liposomes encapsulating a tumor antigen significantly enhanced antigen-specific cytotoxicity. In tumor-bearing mice, vaccination with liposomes encapsulating a tumor antigen elicited complete tumor remission. Furthermore, vaccination significantly enhanced cytotoxicity, targeting not only the vaccinated antigen but also the other antigens of the tumor cell. These results indicate that liposomes are an ideal adjuvant to develop DCs with considerably high potential to elicit antigen-specific immune responses; they are a promising tool for cancer therapy with neoantigen vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunichi Watanabe
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Eiji Yuba
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Osaka 599-8531, Japan
| | - Takashi Akazawa
- Department of Cancer Drug Discovery and Development, Research Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Osaka 541-8567 Japan
| | - Viskam Wijewardana
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yuka Kakihara
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Ayaka Azuma
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Kenji Hagimori
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Ryoji Kanegi
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Shingo Hatoya
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Norimitsu Inoue
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Wakayama 641-8509 Japan
| | - Toshio Inaba
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Kikuya Sugiura
- Department of Advanced Pathobiology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan.
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15
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CW. Wong K, Johnson D, Hui EP, CT. Lam R, BY. Ma B, TC. Chan A. Opportunities and Challenges in Combining Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancers. Cancer Treat Rev 2022; 105:102361. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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16
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Neoantigen Cancer Vaccines: Generation, Optimization, and Therapeutic Targeting Strategies. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10020196. [PMID: 35214655 PMCID: PMC8877108 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternatives to conventional cancer treatments are highly sought after for high-risk malignancies that have a poor response to established treatment modalities. With research advancing rapidly in the past decade, neoantigen-based immunotherapeutic approaches represent an effective and highly tolerable therapeutic option. Neoantigens are tumor-specific antigens that are not expressed in normal cells and possess significant immunogenic potential. Several recent studies have described the conceptual framework and methodologies to generate neoantigen-based vaccines as well as the formulation of appropriate clinical trials to advance this approach for patient care. This review aims to describe some of the key studies in the recent literature in this rapidly evolving field and summarize the current advances in neoantigen identification and selection, vaccine generation and delivery, and the optimization of neoantigen-based therapeutic strategies, including the early data from pivotal clinical studies.
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17
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Zachariah NN, Basu A, Gautam N, Ramamoorthi G, Kodumudi KN, Kumar NB, Loftus L, Czerniecki BJ. Intercepting Premalignant, Preinvasive Breast Lesions Through Vaccination. Front Immunol 2021; 12:786286. [PMID: 34899753 PMCID: PMC8652247 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.786286] [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: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) prevention remains the ultimate cost-effective method to reduce the global burden of invasive breast cancer (IBC). To date, surgery and chemoprevention remain the main risk-reducing modalities for those with hereditary cancer syndromes, as well as high-risk non-hereditary breast lesions such as ADH, ALH, or LCIS. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a preinvasive malignant lesion of the breast that closely mirrors IBC and, if left untreated, develops into IBC in up to 50% of lesions. Certain high-risk patients with DCIS may have a 25% risk of developing recurrent DCIS or IBC, even after surgical resection. The development of breast cancer elicits a strong immune response, which brings to prominence the numerous advantages associated with immune-based cancer prevention over drug-based chemoprevention, supported by the success of dendritic cell vaccines targeting HER2-expressing BC. Vaccination against BC to prevent or interrupt the process of BC development remains elusive but is a viable option. Vaccination to intercept preinvasive or premalignant breast conditions may be possible by interrupting the expression pattern of various oncodrivers. Growth factors may also function as potential immune targets to prevent breast cancer progression. Furthermore, neoantigens also serve as effective targets for interception by virtue of strong immunogenicity. It is noteworthy that the immune response also needs to be strong enough to result in target lesion elimination to avoid immunoediting as it may occur in IBC arising from DCIS. Overall, if the issue of vaccine targets can be solved by interrupting premalignant lesions, there is a potential to prevent the development of IBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amrita Basu
- Clinical Science Division, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Namrata Gautam
- Clinical Science Division, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Ganesan Ramamoorthi
- Clinical Science Division, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Krithika N Kodumudi
- Clinical Science Division, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Nagi B Kumar
- Clinical Science Division, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Loretta Loftus
- Department of Breast Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Brian J Czerniecki
- Department of Breast Surgery, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
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18
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Wang Y, Tan H, Yu T, Chen X, Jing F, Shi H. Potential Immune Biomarker Candidates and Immune Subtypes of Lung Adenocarcinoma for Developing mRNA Vaccines. Front Immunol 2021; 12:755401. [PMID: 34917077 PMCID: PMC8670181 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.755401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines against cancer have advantages in safety, improved therapeutic efficacy, and large-scale production. Therefore, our purpose is to identify immune biomarkers and to analyze immune status for developing mRNA vaccines and selecting appropriate patients for vaccination. We downloaded clinical information and RNA-seq data of 494 LUAD patients from TCGA. LUAD mutational information was hierarchically clustered by NMF package (Version 0.23.0). DeconstructSigs package (Version 1.8.0) and NMF consistency clustering were used to identify mutation signatures. Maftools package (Version 2.6.05) was used to select LUAD-related immune biomarkers. TIMER was used to discuss the correlation between genetic mutations and cellular components. Unsupervised clustering Pam method was used to identify LUAD immune subtypes. Log-rank test and univariate/multivariate cox regression were used to predict the prognosis of immune subtypes. Dimensionality reduction analysis was dedicated to the description of LUAD immune landscape. LUAD patients are classified into four signatures: T >C, APOBEC mutation, age, and tobacco. Then, GPRIN1, MYRF, PLXNB2, SLC9A4, TRIM29, UBA6, and XDH are potential LUAD-related immune biomarker candidates to activate the immune response. Next, we clustered five LUAD-related immune subtypes (IS1–IS5) by prognostic prediction. IS3 showed prolonged survival. The reliability of our five immune subtypes was validated by Thorsson’s results. IS2 and IS4 patients had high tumor mutation burden and large number of somatic mutations. Besides, we identified that immune subtypes of cold immunity (patients with IS2 and IS4) are ideal mRNA vaccination recipients. Finally, LUAD immune landscape revealed immune cells and prognostic conditions, which provides important information to select patients for vaccination. GPRIN1, MYRF, PLXNB2, SLC9A4, TRIM29, UBA6, and XDH are potential LUAD-related immune biomarker candidates to activate the immune response. Patients with IS2 and IS4 might potentially be immunization-sensitive patients for vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huaicheng Tan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Yu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fangqi Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huashan Shi
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Huashan Shi,
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19
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Rivero-Hinojosa S, Grant M, Panigrahi A, Zhang H, Caisova V, Bollard CM, Rood BR. Proteogenomic discovery of neoantigens facilitates personalized multi-antigen targeted T cell immunotherapy for brain tumors. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6689. [PMID: 34795224 PMCID: PMC8602676 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26936-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neoantigen discovery in pediatric brain tumors is hampered by their low mutational burden and scant tissue availability. Here we develop a proteogenomic approach combining tumor DNA/RNA sequencing and mass spectrometry proteomics to identify tumor-restricted (neoantigen) peptides arising from multiple genomic aberrations to generate a highly target-specific, autologous, personalized T cell immunotherapy. Our data indicate that aberrant splice junctions are the primary source of neoantigens in medulloblastoma, a common pediatric brain tumor. Proteogenomically identified tumor-specific peptides are immunogenic and generate MHC II-based T cell responses. Moreover, polyclonal and polyfunctional T cells specific for tumor-specific peptides effectively eliminate tumor cells in vitro. Targeting tumor-specific antigens obviates the issue of central immune tolerance while potentially providing a safety margin favoring combination with other immune-activating therapies. These findings demonstrate the proteogenomic discovery of immunogenic tumor-specific peptides and lay the groundwork for personalized targeted T cell therapies for children with brain tumors. Targeting tumor-associated antigens in paediatric medulloblastomas (MB) is challenging due to their low mutational burden. Here, the authors develop a sensitive proteogenomic approach to identify tumour specific neoantigens, which may enable personalised T cell immunotherapy in paediatric MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Rivero-Hinojosa
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Melanie Grant
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA.,Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aswini Panigrahi
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Veronika Caisova
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Catherine M Bollard
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA.,George Washington University Cancer Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Brian R Rood
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA. .,George Washington University Cancer Center, Washington, DC, USA.
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20
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Biological Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer-Update and New Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111694. [PMID: 34769123 PMCID: PMC8583892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111694] [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: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological therapies have changed the face of oncology by targeting cancerous cells while reducing the effect on normal tissue. This publication focuses mainly on new therapies that have contributed to the advances in treatment of certain malignancies. Immunotherapy, which has repeatedly proven to be a breakthrough therapy in melanoma, as well as B-ALL therapy with CAR T cells, are of great merit in this progress. These therapies are currently being developed by modifying bispecific antibodies and CAR T cells to improve their efficiency and bioavailability. Work on improving the therapy with oncolytic viruses is also progressing, and efforts are being made to improve the immunogenicity and stability of cancer vaccines. Combining various biological therapies, immunotherapy with oncolytic viruses or cancer vaccines is gaining importance in cancer therapy. New therapeutic targets are intensively sought among neoantigens, which are not immunocompromised, or antigens associated with tumor stroma cells. An example is fibroblast activation protein α (FAPα), the overexpression of which is observed in the case of tumor progression. Universal therapeutic targets are also sought, such as the neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) gene fusion, a key genetic driver present in many types of cancer. This review also raises the problem of the tumor microenvironment. Stromal cells can protect tumor cells from chemotherapy and contribute to relapse and progression. This publication also addresses the problem of cancer stem cells resistance to treatment and presents attempts to avoid this phenomenon. This review focuses on the most important strategies used to improve the selectivity of biological therapies.
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21
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Connecting MHC-I-binding motifs with HLA alleles via deep learning. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1194. [PMID: 34663927 PMCID: PMC8523706 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02716-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of peptides presented by MHC molecules is crucial for antigen discovery. Previously, several predictors have shown impressive performance on binding affinity. However, the decisive MHC residues and their relation to the selection of binding peptides are still unrevealed. Here, we connected HLA alleles with binding motifs via our deep learning-based framework, MHCfovea. MHCfovea expanded the knowledge of MHC-I-binding motifs from 150 to 13,008 alleles. After clustering N-terminal and C-terminal sub-motifs on both observed and unobserved alleles, MHCfovea calculated the hyper-motifs and the corresponding allele signatures on the important positions to disclose the relation between binding motifs and MHC-I sequences. MHCfovea delivered 32 pairs of hyper-motifs and allele signatures (HLA-A: 13, HLA-B: 12, and HLA-C: 7). The paired hyper-motifs and allele signatures disclosed the critical polymorphic residues that determine the binding preference, which are believed to be valuable for antigen discovery and vaccine design when allele specificity is concerned. Ko-Han Lee et al. develop MHCfovea, a machine-learning method for predicting peptide-binding by MHC molecules and inferring peptide motifs and MHC allele signatures. They demonstrate that MHCfovea is capable of detecting meaningful hyper-motifs and allele signatures, making it a useful resource for the community.
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22
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Zhu Y, Liu J. The Role of Neoantigens in Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:682325. [PMID: 34513673 PMCID: PMC8429900 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.682325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutation-derived neoantigens, expressed only on tumor cells, may elicit antitumor T-cell responses in cancer immunotherapies with minimal immune tolerance. Neoantigens can be identified by multiple bioinformatics technologies, mainly based on whole-exome sequencing. Personalized cancer vaccines and adoptive T cell therapies are two primary treatment modalities targeting neoantigens, and both of them have shown promising therapeutic effects. This review, summarizes the history of neoantigen-related tumor control, introduces recent neoantigen screening and identification methods, and discusses the role of neoantigen in cancer immunotherapies. Moreover, we propose the challenges of targeting neoantigens for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueting Zhu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiyan Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Ziyang, Ziyang, China
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23
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Next-Generation Biomarkers in Multiple Myeloma: Understanding the Molecular Basis for Potential Use in Diagnosis and Prognosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147470. [PMID: 34299097 PMCID: PMC8305153 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is considered to be the second most common blood malignancy and it is characterized by abnormal proliferation and an accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. Although the currently utilized markers in the diagnosis and assessment of MM are showing promising results, the incidence and mortality rate of the disease are still high. Therefore, exploring and developing better diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers have drawn global interest. In the present review, we highlight some of the recently reported and investigated novel biomarkers that have great potentials as diagnostic and/or prognostic tools in MM. These biomarkers include angiogenic markers, miRNAs as well as proteomic and immunological biomarkers. Moreover, we present some of the advanced methodologies that could be utilized in the early and competent diagnosis of MM. The present review also focuses on understanding the molecular concepts and pathways involved in these biomarkers in order to validate and efficiently utilize them. The present review may also help in identifying areas of improvement for better diagnosis and superior outcomes of MM.
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24
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Mahoney KE, Shabanowitz J, Hunt DF. MHC Phosphopeptides: Promising Targets for Immunotherapy of Cancer and Other Chronic Diseases. Mol Cell Proteomics 2021; 20:100112. [PMID: 34129940 PMCID: PMC8724925 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2021.100112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Major histocompatibility complex-associated peptides have been considered as potential immunotherapeutic targets for many years. MHC class I phosphopeptides result from dysregulated cell signaling pathways that are common across cancers and both viral and bacterial infections. These antigens are recognized by central memory T cells from healthy donors, indicating that they are considered antigenic by the immune system and that they are presented across different individuals and diseases. Based on these responses and the similar dysregulation, phosphorylated antigens are promising candidates for prevention or treatment of different cancers as well as a number of other chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keira E Mahoney
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffrey Shabanowitz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
| | - Donald F Hunt
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
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25
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Lampis A, Ratti M, Ghidini M, Mirchev MB, Okuducu AF, Valeri N, Hahne JC. Challenges and perspectives for immunotherapy in oesophageal cancer: A look to the future (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:97. [PMID: 33846775 PMCID: PMC8041478 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oesophageal cancer is one of the most aggressive malignancies with limited treatment options, thus resulting in a high morbidity and mortality. With 5‑year survival rates of only 5‑10%, oesophageal cancer holds a dismal prognosis for patients. In order to improve overall survival, the early diagnosis and tools for patient stratification for personalized treatment are urgent needs. A minority of oesophageal cancers belong to the spectrum of Lynch syndrome‑associated cancers and are characterized by microsatellite instability (MSI). Microsatellite instability is a consequence of defective mismatch repair protein functions and it has been well characterized in other gastrointestinal tumours, such as colorectal and gastric cancer. In the latter, high levels of MSI are associated with a better prognosis and with an increased benefit to immune‑based therapies. Therefore, similar therapeutic approaches could offer an opportunity of treatment for oesophageal cancer patients with MSI. Apart from immune checkpoint inhibitors, other immunotherapies such as adoptive T‑cell transfer, peptide vaccine and oncolytic viruses are under investigation in oesophageal cancer patients. In the present review, the rationale and current knowledge about immunotherapies in oesophageal cancer are summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lampis
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
| | - Margherita Ratti
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Medical Department, Division of Oncology, Hospital Trust of Cremona, I-26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Michele Ghidini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Policlinic 'Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore', I-20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Milko B. Mirchev
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Medical University, 9002 Varna, Bulgaria
| | | | - Nicola Valeri
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton SM25NG, UK
| | - Jens Claus Hahne
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
- Centre for Evolution and Cancer, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton SM25NG, UK
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26
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Yuan J, Yuan X, Wu K, Gao J, Li L. A Local and Low-Dose Chemotherapy/Autophagy-Enhancing Regimen Treatment Markedly Inhibited the Growth of Established Solid Tumors Through a Systemic Antitumor Immune Response. Front Oncol 2021; 11:658254. [PMID: 33859948 PMCID: PMC8042230 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.658254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the main options for the treatment of a variety of malignant tumors. However, the severe side effects resulting from the killing of normal proliferating cells limit the application of cancer-targeting chemotherapeutic drugs. To improve the efficacy of classic systemic chemotherapy, the local delivery of high-dose chemotherapeutic drugs was developed as a method to enhance local drug concentrations and minimize systemic toxicity. Studies have demonstrated that chemotherapy is often accompanied by cancer-associated immunogenic cell death (ICD) and that autophagy is involved in the induction of ICD. To improve the efficacy of local cancer chemotherapy, we hypothesized that the local delivery of chemotherapeutic plus autophagy-enhancing agents would enhance the promotive effects of ICD on the antitumor immune response. Here, we report that a low-dose chemotherapy/autophagy enhancing regimen (CAER) not only resulted in the increased death of B16F10 and 4T1 tumor cells, but also induced higher levels of autophagy in vitro. Importantly, the local delivery of the CARE drugs significantly inhibited tumor growth in B16F10 and 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Systemic antitumor T-cell immunity was observed in vivo, including neoantigen-specific T-cell responses. Furthermore, bioinformatic analysis of human breast cancer and melanoma tissues showed that autophagy-associated gene expression was upregulated in tumor samples. Increased autophagy and immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues were positively correlated with good prognosis of tumor patients. This work highlights a new approach to improve the effects of local chemotherapy and enhance systemic antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yuan
- Institute of Clinical Oncology, Research Center of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy, and Department of Clinical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianlin Yuan
- Institute of Clinical Oncology, Research Center of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy, and Department of Clinical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunlong Wu
- Institute of Clinical Oncology, Research Center of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy, and Department of Clinical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junxia Gao
- Institute of Clinical Oncology, Research Center of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy, and Department of Clinical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liangping Li
- Institute of Clinical Oncology, Research Center of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy, and Department of Clinical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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27
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Anderson TS, Wooster AL, La-Beck NM, Saha D, Lowe DB. Antibody-drug conjugates: an evolving approach for melanoma treatment. Melanoma Res 2021; 31:1-17. [PMID: 33165241 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma continues to be an aggressive and deadly form of skin cancer while therapeutic options are continuously developing in an effort to provide long-term solutions for patients. Immunotherapeutic strategies incorporating antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have seen varied levels of success across tumor types and represent a promising approach for melanoma. This review will explore the successes of FDA-approved ADCs to date compared to the ongoing efforts of melanoma-targeting ADCs. The challenges and opportunities for future therapeutic development are also examined to distinguish how ADCs may better impact individuals with malignancies such as melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ninh M La-Beck
- Departments of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology
- Pharmacy Practice, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, Texas, USA
| | | | - Devin B Lowe
- Departments of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology
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28
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Esprit A, de Mey W, Bahadur Shahi R, Thielemans K, Franceschini L, Breckpot K. Neo-Antigen mRNA Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E776. [PMID: 33353155 PMCID: PMC7766040 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interest in therapeutic cancer vaccines has caught enormous attention in recent years due to several breakthroughs in cancer research, among which the finding that successful checkpoint blockade treatments reinvigorate neo-antigen-specific T cells and that successful adoptive cell therapies are directed towards neo-antigens. Neo-antigens are cancer-specific antigens, which develop from somatic mutations in the cancer cell genome that can be highly immunogenic and are not subjected to central tolerance. As the majority of neo-antigens are unique to each patient's cancer, a vaccine technology that is flexible and potent is required to develop personalized neo-antigen vaccines. In vitro transcribed mRNA is such a technology platform and has been evaluated for delivery of neo-antigens to professional antigen-presenting cells both ex vivo and in vivo. In addition, strategies that support the activity of T cells in the tumor microenvironment have been developed. These represent a unique opportunity to ensure durable T cell activity upon vaccination. Here, we comprehensively review recent progress in mRNA-based neo-antigen vaccines, summarizing critical milestones that made it possible to bring the promise of therapeutic cancer vaccines within reach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (A.E.); (W.d.M.); (R.B.S.); (K.T.); (L.F.)
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