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He ZN, Zhang CY, Zhao YW, He SL, Li Y, Shi BL, Hu JQ, Qi RZ, Hua BJ. Regulation of T cells by myeloid-derived suppressor cells: emerging immunosuppressor in lung cancer. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:185. [PMID: 37857728 PMCID: PMC10587041 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00793-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), major components maintaining the immune suppressive microenvironment in lung cancer, are relevant to the invasion, metastasis, and poor prognosis of lung cancer, through the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, remodeling of the immune microenvironment, and regulation of angiogenesis. MDSCs regulate T-cell immune functions by maintaining a strong immunosuppressive microenvironment and promoting tumor invasion. This raises the question of whether reversing the immunosuppressive effect of MDSCs on T cells can improve lung cancer treatment. To understand this further, this review explores the interactions and specific mechanisms of different MDSCs subsets, including regulatory T cells, T helper cells, CD8 + T cells, natural killer T cells, and exhausted T cells, as part of the lung cancer immune microenvironment. Second, it focuses on the guiding significance confirmed via clinical liquid biopsy and tissue biopsy that different MDSC subsets improve the prognosis of lung cancer. Finally, we conclude that targeting MDSCs through action targets or signaling pathways can help regulate T-cell immune functions and suppress T-cell exhaustion. In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting MDSCs may serve as a new approach for enhancing the efficiency of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for lung cancer in the future, providing better comprehensive options for lung cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Ning He
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Yu-Wei Zhao
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Lin He
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China
| | - Yue Li
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China
| | - Bo-Lun Shi
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Qi Hu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China
| | - Run-Zhi Qi
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Bao-Jin Hua
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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2
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Guizhen Z, Guanchang J, Liwen L, Huifen W, Zhigang R, Ranran S, Zujiang Y. The tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and its targeting strategy by CAR-T cell immunotherapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:918869. [PMID: 36093115 PMCID: PMC9452721 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.918869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype of liver cancer, which ranks sixth in cancer incidence and third in mortality. Although great strides have been made in novel therapy for HCC, such as immunotherapy, the prognosis remains less than satisfactory. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) exerts a significant role in the evolution of HCC and has a non-negligible impact on the efficacy of HCC treatment. In the past two decades, the success in hematological malignancies made by chimeric antigen receptor-modified T (CAR-T) cell therapy leveraging it holds great promise for cancer treatment. However, in the face of a hostile TME in solid tumors like HCC, the efficacy of CAR-T cells will be greatly compromised. Here, we provide an overview of TME features in HCC, discuss recent advances and challenges of CAR-T immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Guizhen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Guanchang
- Department of Urology People’s Hospital of Puyang, Puyang, China
| | - Liu Liwen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wang Huifen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ren Zhigang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sun Ranran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Zujiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
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3
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Yang Q, Yu B, Kang J, Li A, Sun J. Obesity Promotes Tumor Immune Evasion in Ovarian Cancer Through Increased Production of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells via IL-6. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:7355-7363. [PMID: 34584460 PMCID: PMC8464309 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s303707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity is defined as a chronic, low-grade inflammatory disease that can cause obesity-associated disorders, such as cancer. Obesity has traditionally been thought to be a risk factor for ovarian cancer. Few reports have focused on the specific pathogenesis of obesity-related ovarian cancer. When considering the correlation between obesity and the relative risk of death from ovarian cancer, we investigated whether obesity promotes tumor immune escape in ovarian cancer. Results In the present study, obese mice were found to have higher rates of tumor growth and tumor infiltration than mice of normal weight. Obesity increased the proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in peripheral blood compared with mice of normal weight. In addition, the levels of CCL25, CD40L, GM-CSF, IL-5, IGFBP2, IL-6, MMP3, and MMP9 in the peripheral blood, bone marrow, and ovarian tissue of obese mice were higher than in mice of normal weight. Moreover, IL-5 and IL-6 significantly enhanced the expression levels of S100A8 and S100A9 in MDSCs. When compared with the levels in mice of normal weight, the expression levels of S100A8 and S100A9 in the MDSCs of OB/OB mice were also higher within the tumor microenvironment. The infiltration of MDSCs in ovarian cancer was found to be positively correlated with the expression levels of IL-6. The IL-6 expression levels in ovarian cancer tissue are positively correlated with the expression levels of S100A8 and S100A9, which is consistent with the results of previous animal experiments. Finally, we found that LMT28 can suppress the tumor growth by inhibiting IL-6. Conclusion Obesity promotes the expression of the MDSC-related immunosuppressive genes S100A8 and S100A9 by upregulating IL-6, thus promoting tumor immune evasion and metastasis in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiannan Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Bojun Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiuhong Kang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Institute for Advanced Study, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Ang Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Institute for Advanced Study, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
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4
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Shi H, Li K, Ni Y, Liang X, Zhao X. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: Implications in the Resistance of Malignant Tumors to T Cell-Based Immunotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:707198. [PMID: 34336860 PMCID: PMC8317971 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.707198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
T lymphocytes function as major players in antigen-mediated cytotoxicity and have become powerful tools for exploiting the immune system in tumor elimination. Several types of T cell-based immunotherapies have been prescribed to cancer patients with durable immunological response. Such strategies include immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T cell therapy, cancer vaccines, oncolytic virus, and modulatory cytokines. However, the majority of cancer patients still failed to take the advantage of these kinds of treatments. Currently, extensive attempts are being made to uncover the potential mechanism of immunotherapy resistance, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have been identified as one of vital interpretable factors. Here, we discuss the immunosuppressive mechanism of MDSCs and their contributions to failures of T cell-based immunotherapy. Additionally, we summarize combination therapies to ameliorate the efficacy of T cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houhui Shi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanghong Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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5
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Liu ZL, Liu JH, Staiculescu D, Chen J. Combination of molecularly targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors in the new era of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2021; 13:17588359211018026. [PMID: 34104226 PMCID: PMC8150670 DOI: 10.1177/17588359211018026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) have been the only first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for more than a decade, until the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Moreover, the combination regimen of atezolizumab (anti-programmed cell death protein ligand 1 antibody) plus bevacizumab (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody) has recently been demonstrated to have superior efficacy when compared with sorafenib monotherapy. The remarkable efficacy has made this combination therapy the new standard treatment for advanced HCC. In addition to MKIs, many other molecularly targeted therapies are under investigation, some of which have shown promising results. Therefore, in the era of immuno-oncology, there is a significant rationale for testing the combinations of molecularly targeted therapies and ICIs. Indeed, numerous preclinical and clinical studies have shown the synergic antitumor efficacy of such combinations. In this review, we aim to summarize the current knowledge on the combination of molecularly targeted therapies and immune checkpoint therapies for HCC from both preclinical and clinical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Long Liu
- Division of Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jing-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Professor Cai’s Laboratory, Linyi People’s Hospital, Linyi, Shandong Province, China
| | - Daniel Staiculescu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, No. 3, East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310016, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
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6
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Zhang Y, Guan XY, Jiang P. Cytokine and Chemokine Signals of T-Cell Exclusion in Tumors. Front Immunol 2020; 11:594609. [PMID: 33381115 PMCID: PMC7768018 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.594609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of cancer immunotherapy in solid tumors depends on a sufficient distribution of effector T cells into malignant lesions. However, immune-cold tumors utilize many T-cell exclusion mechanisms to resist immunotherapy. T cells have to go through three steps to fight against tumors: trafficking to the tumor core, surviving and expanding, and maintaining the memory phenotype for long-lasting responses. Cytokines and chemokines play critical roles in modulating the recruitment of T cells and the overall cellular compositions of the tumor microenvironment. Manipulating the cytokine or chemokine environment has brought success in preclinical models and early-stage clinical trials. However, depending on the immune context, the same cytokine or chemokine signals may exhibit either antitumor or protumor activities and induce unwanted side effects. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the cytokine and chemokine signals is the premise of overcoming T-cell exclusion for effective and innovative anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Cancer Data Science Lab, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xin-yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Peng Jiang
- Cancer Data Science Lab, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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7
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Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A 2021 Update. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102859. [PMID: 33020428 PMCID: PMC7600093 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of one of the most frequent liver cancers and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Current treatment options such as surgery, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, liver transplantation, and radiofrequency ablation will benefit only a very small percentage of patients. Immunotherapy is a novel treatment approach representing an effective and promising option against several types of cancer. The aim of our study is to present the currently ongoing clinical trials and to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapy in HCC. In this paper, we demonstrate that combination of different immunotherapies or immunotherapy with other modalities results in better overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) compared to single immunotherapy agent. Another objective of this paper is to demonstrate and highlight the importance of tumor microenvironment as a predictive and prognostic marker and its clinical implications in immunotherapy response.
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8
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Zeng X, Zhou J, Xiong Z, Sun H, Yang W, Mok MTS, Wang J, Li J, Liu M, Tang W, Feng Y, Wang HKS, Tsang SW, Chow KL, Yeung PC, Wong J, Lai PBS, Chan AWH, To KF, Chan SL, Xia Q, Xue J, Chen X, Yu J, Peng S, Sung JJY, Kuang M, Cheng ASL. Cell cycle-related kinase reprograms the liver immune microenvironment to promote cancer metastasis. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 18:1005-1015. [PMID: 32879468 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-00534-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is an immunologically tolerant organ and a common metastatic site of multiple cancer types. Although a role for cancer cell invasion programs has been well characterized, whether and how liver-intrinsic factors drive metastatic spread is incompletely understood. Here, we show that aberrantly activated hepatocyte-intrinsic cell cycle-related kinase (CCRK) signaling in chronic liver diseases is critical for cancer metastasis by reprogramming an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Using an inducible liver-specific transgenic model, we found that CCRK overexpression dramatically increased both B16F10 melanoma and MC38 colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis to the liver, which was highly infiltrated by polymorphonuclear-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) and lacking natural killer T (NKT) cells. Depletion of PMN-MDSCs in CCRK transgenic mice restored NKT cell levels and their interferon gamma production and reduced liver metastasis to 2.7% and 0.7% (metastatic tumor weights) in the melanoma and CRC models, respectively. Mechanistically, CCRK activated nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling to increase the PMN-MDSC-trafficking chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), which was positively correlated with liver-infiltrating PMN-MDSC levels in CCRK transgenic mice. Accordingly, CRC liver metastasis patients exhibited hyperactivation of hepatic CCRK/NF-κB/CXCL1 signaling, which was associated with accumulation of PMN-MDSCs and paucity of NKT cells compared to healthy liver transplantation donors. In summary, this study demonstrates that immunosuppressive reprogramming by hepatic CCRK signaling undermines antimetastatic immunosurveillance. Our findings offer new mechanistic insights and therapeutic targets for liver metastasis intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuezhen Zeng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingying Zhou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China. .,Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Zhewen Xiong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hanyong Sun
- Department of Liver Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiqin Yang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Myth T S Mok
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jingqing Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Man Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenshu Tang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu Feng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hector Kwong-Sang Wang
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shun-Wa Tsang
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - King-Lau Chow
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip Chun Yeung
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - John Wong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Paul Bo-San Lai
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Anthony Wing-Hung Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephen Lam Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qiang Xia
- Department of Liver Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sui Peng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Clinical Trial Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph Jao-Yiu Sung
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Alfred Sze-Lok Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China. .,Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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9
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Yang Y, Li C, Liu T, Dai X, Bazhin AV. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Tumors: From Mechanisms to Antigen Specificity and Microenvironmental Regulation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1371. [PMID: 32793192 PMCID: PMC7387650 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the various immunological and non-immunological tumor-promoting activities of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), their immunosuppressive capacity remains a key hallmark. Effort in the past decade has provided us with a clearer view of the suppressive nature of MDSCs. More suppressive pathways have been identified, and their recognized targets have been expanded from T cells and natural killer (NK) cells to other immune cells. These novel mechanisms and targets afford MDSCs versatility in suppressing both innate and adaptive immunity. On the other hand, a better understanding of the regulation of their development and function has been unveiled. This intricate regulatory network, consisting of tumor cells, stromal cells, soluble mediators, and hostile physical conditions, reveals bi-directional crosstalk between MDSCs and the tumor microenvironment. In this article, we will review available information on how MDSCs exert their immunosuppressive function and how they are regulated in the tumor milieu. As MDSCs are a well-established obstacle to anti-tumor immunity, new insights in the potential synergistic combination of MDSC-targeted therapy and immunotherapy will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhui Yang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Province Key Lab of Molecular Imaging, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofang Dai
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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10
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Abstract
HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, with several etiologic causes, mostly inflammation-associated. Different inflammatory responses in the liver can be triggered by different etiological agents. The inflammatory process can be resolved or be persistent, depending on the etiology and multiple other factors. Chronic inflammation, tissue remodeling, genetic alterations, and modifications in cellular signaling are considered to be key processes promoting immunosuppression. The progressive immunosuppression leads to the inactivation of anti-tumor immunity involved in HCC carcinogenesis and progression. Tumor cellular processes including DNA damage, necrosis, and ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress can affect both immune-surveillance and cancer-promoting inflammation, supporting a mutual interdependence. Here, we review the current understanding of how chronic liver injury and inflammation is triggered and sustained, and how inflammation is linked to HCC. The identification of many hepatic microenvironmental inflammatory processes and their effector molecules, has resulted in extensive translational work and promising clinical trials of new immunomodulatory agents.
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11
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Xu Y, Fang F, Jiao H, Zheng X, Huang L, Yi X, Zhao W. Activated hepatic stellate cells regulate MDSC migration through the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in an orthotopic mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:1959-1969. [PMID: 31641797 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02414-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are important stromal cells and pivotal mediators involved in the pathogenesis and immunosuppression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The liver has been demonstrated to be a site for accumulation of tumor-induced myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). We previously reported that HSCs induced an increase in the number of MDSCs in HCC. However, how MDSCs are recruited in HCC remains largely unclear. In the present study, we found that HSC-conditioned medium (HSC-CM) induced bone marrow-derived cell and splenocyte migration, especially MDSC migration. Using chemokine-neutralizing antibodies and chemokine receptor inhibitors, we found that HSCs promoted MDSC migration through the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis. Subsequently, we used an orthotopic mouse liver tumor model to determine how HSCs mediated MDSC migration to HCC in vivo. The in vivo results indicated that pretreatment of MDSCs with a CXCR4 inhibitor or injection with SDF-1-knocked down HSCs inhibited MDSC migration to the spleen and liver of the tumor-bearing mice. Together, our findings indicate a central role for HSCs in MDSC migration mediated by the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis, thus revealing a potentially effective approach for modulating the tumor microenvironment by targeting HSCs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Xu
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023, China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Xiamen, 361023, China
| | - Fei Fang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Building 6, No. 209, South Hubin Road, Xiamen, 361004, China
| | - Hui Jiao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Building 6, No. 209, South Hubin Road, Xiamen, 361004, China
| | - Xiaohui Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023, China
| | - Liyue Huang
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023, China
| | - Xue Yi
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023, China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Xiamen, 361023, China
| | - Wenxiu Zhao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Building 6, No. 209, South Hubin Road, Xiamen, 361004, China.
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Fu Y, Liu S, Zeng S, Shen H. From bench to bed: the tumor immune microenvironment and current immunotherapeutic strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:396. [PMID: 31500650 PMCID: PMC6734524 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1396-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks the most common primary liver malignancy and the third leading cause of tumor-related mortality worldwide. Unfortunately, despite advances in HCC treatment, less than 40% of HCC patients are eligible for potentially curative therapies. Recently, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising approaches for cancer treatment. It has been proven therapeutically effective in many types of solid tumors, such as non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma. As an inflammation-associated tumor, it's well-evidenced that the immunosuppressive microenvironment of HCC can promote immune tolerance and evasion by various mechanisms. Triggering more vigorous HCC-specific immune response represents a novel strategy for its management. Pre-clinical and clinical investigations have revealed that various immunotherapies might extend current options for needed HCC treatment. In this review, we provide the recent progress on HCC immunology from both basic and clinical perspectives, and discuss potential advances and challenges of immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaojie Fu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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13
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Vilgelm AE, Richmond A. Chemokines Modulate Immune Surveillance in Tumorigenesis, Metastasis, and Response to Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2019; 10:333. [PMID: 30873179 PMCID: PMC6400988 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemokines are small secreted proteins that orchestrate migration and positioning of immune cells within the tissues. Chemokines are essential for the function of the immune system. Accumulating evidence suggest that chemokines play important roles in tumor microenvironment. In this review we discuss an association of chemokine expression and activity within the tumor microenvironment with cancer outcome. We summarize regulation of immune cell recruitment into the tumor by chemokine-chemokine receptor interactions and describe evidence implicating chemokines in promotion of the "inflamed" immune-cell enriched tumor microenvironment. We review both tumor-promoting function of chemokines, such as regulation of tumor metastasis, and beneficial chemokine roles, including stimulation of anti-tumor immunity and response to immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic strategies target tumor-promoting chemokines or induce/deliver beneficial chemokines within the tumor focusing on pre-clinical studies and clinical trials going forward. The goal of this review is to provide insight into comprehensive role of chemokines and their receptors in tumor pathobiology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E. Vilgelm
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Ann Richmond
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
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Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immunosuppressive cells of the myeloid lineage upregulated by mediators of inflammation, such as IL-2, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and S100A8/A9. These cells have been studied extensively by tumor biologists. Because of their robust immunosuppressive potential, MDSCs have stirred recent interest among transplant immunologists as well. MDSCs inhibit T-cell responses through, among other mechanisms, the activity of arginase-1 and inducible nitric oxide synthase, and the expansion of T regulatory cells. In the context of transplantation, MDSCs have been studied in several animal models, and to a lesser degree in humans. Here, we will review the immunosuppressive qualities of this important cell type and discuss the relevant studies of MDSCs in transplantation. It may be possible to exploit the immunosuppressive capacity of MDSCs for the benefit of transplant patients.
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15
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The Role of Invariant NKT in Autoimmune Liver Disease: Can Vitamin D Act as an Immunomodulator? Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 2018:8197937. [PMID: 30046564 PMCID: PMC6038587 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8197937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a distinct lineage of T cells which express both the T cell receptor (TCR) and natural killer (NK) cell markers. Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells bear an invariant TCR and recognize a small variety of glycolipid antigens presented by CD1d (nonclassical MHC-I). CD1d-restricted iNKT cells are regulators of immune responses and produce cytokines that may be proinflammatory (such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)) or anti-inflammatory (such as IL-4). iNKT cells also appear to play a role in B cell regulation and antibody production. Alpha-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), a derivative of the marine sponge, is a potent stimulator of iNKT cells and has been proposed as a therapeutic iNKT cell activator. Invariant NKT cells have been implicated in the development and perpetuation of several autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Animal models of SLE have shown abnormalities in iNKT cells numbers and function, and an inverse correlation between the frequency of NKT cells and IgG levels has also been observed. The role of iNKT cells in autoimmune liver disease (AiLD) has not been extensively studied. This review discusses the current data with regard to iNKT cells function in AiLD, in addition to providing an overview of iNKT cells function in other autoimmune conditions and animal models. We also discuss data regarding the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D on iNKT cells, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target, given that deficiencies in vitamin D have been reported in various autoimmune disorders.
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Zekri ARN, El Deeb S, Bahnassy AA, Badr AM, Abdellateif MS, Esmat G, Salama H, Mohanad M, El-dien AE, Rabah S, Abd Elkader A. Role of relevant immune-modulators and cytokines in hepatocellular carcinoma and premalignant hepatic lesions. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:1228-1238. [PMID: 29568203 PMCID: PMC5859225 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i11.1228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 12/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the levels of different immune modulators in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in relation to other hepatic diseases.
METHODS Eighty-eight patients were included in the current study and represented patients with HCC (20), liver cirrhosis (28) and chronic hepatitis (CH; 25), and normal controls (NC; 15). Peripheral blood was isolated for immunophenotyping of active myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs; CD1c and CD40), mature inactive myeloid cells (CD1c and HLA), active plasmacytoid cells (pDCs; CD303 and CD40), mature inactive pDCs (CD30 and HLA), active natural killer (NK) cells (CD56 and CD161), active NK cells (CD56 and CD314) and inactive NK cells (CD56 and CD158) was done by flow cytometry. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, IL-12, IL-1β, interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-αR2 were assessed by ELISA.
RESULTS Active mDCs (CD1C+/CD40+) and inactive mDCs (CD1c+/HLA+) were significantly decreased in HCC patients in relation to NC (P < 0.001). CD40+ expression on active pDCs was decreased in HCC patients (P < 0.001), and its level was not significantly changed among other groups. Inactive pDCs (CD303+/HLA+), inactive NKs (CD56+/CD158+) and active NKs (CD56+/CD161+) were not statistically changed among the four groups studied; however, the latter was increased in CH (P < 0.05). NKG2D was statistically decreased in HCC, CH and cirrhosis (P < 0.001), and it was not expressed in 63% (12/20) of HCC patients. There was significant decrease of IL-2, IFN-α and IFN-γ (P < 0.001), and a significant increase in IL-10, IL-1β, and TNF-αR2 (P <0.01, P < 0.001 and P < 0.001; respectively) in HCC patients. There was inverted correlation between IL-12 and IL-1β in HCC (r = -0.565, P < 0.01), with a strong correlation between pDCs (CD303+/CD40+) and NKs (CD56+/CD161+; r = 0.512, P < 0.05) as well as inactive mDCs (CD1c+/HLA+) and inactive NK cells (CD56+/CD158+; r = 0.945, P < 0.001).
CONCLUSION NKG2D, CD40, IL-2 and IL-10 are important modulators in the development and progression of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Rahman N Zekri
- Molecular Virology and Immunology Unit, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Somaya El Deeb
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Abeer A Bahnassy
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Abeer M Badr
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Mona S Abdellateif
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Gamal Esmat
- Department of Hepatology and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11441, Egypt
| | - Hosny Salama
- Department of Hepatology and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11441, Egypt
| | - Marwa Mohanad
- Department of Biochemistry, Misr University for Science and Technology, 6th October 12945, Giza Governorate, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Esam El-dien
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Shimaa Rabah
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Assmaa Abd Elkader
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
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Dorhoi A, Du Plessis N. Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Chronic Infections. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1895. [PMID: 29354120 PMCID: PMC5758551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous populations of myeloid regulatory cells (MRC), including monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils, are found in cancer and infectious diseases. The inflammatory environment in solid tumors as well as infectious foci with persistent pathogens promotes the development and recruitment of MRC. These cells help to resolve inflammation and establish host immune homeostasis by restricting T lymphocyte function, inducing regulatory T cells and releasing immune suppressive cytokines and enzyme products. Monocytic MRC, also termed monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSC), are bona fide phagocytes, capable of pathogen internalization and persistence, while exerting localized suppressive activity. Here, we summarize molecular pathways controlling M-MDSC genesis and functions in microbial-induced non-resolved inflammation and immunopathology. We focus on the roles of M-MDSC in infections, including opportunistic extracellular bacteria and fungi as well as persistent intracellular pathogens, such as mycobacteria and certain viruses. Better understanding of M-MDSC biology in chronic infections and their role in antimicrobial immunity, will advance development of novel, more effective and broad-range anti-infective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Dorhoi
- Institute of Immunology, Bundesforschungsinstitut für Tiergesundheit, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI), Insel Riems, Germany.,Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nelita Du Plessis
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, DST and NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Santibanez JF, Bjelica S. Transforming Growth Factor-Beta1 and Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Interplay in Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.2174/1876401001706010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) is a pleiotropic cytokine with a double role in cancer through its capacity to inhibit early stages of tumors while enhancing tumor progression at late stages of tumor progression. Moreover, TGF-β1 is a potent immunosuppressive cytokine within the tumor microenvironment that allows cancer cells to escape from immune surveillance, which largely contributes to the tumor progression.
Method:
It has been established that the cancer progression is commonly associated with increased number of Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) that are a hallmark of cancer and a key mechanism of immune evasion.
Result:
MDSC represent a population of heterogeneous myeloid cells comprised of macrophages, granulocytes and dendritic cells at immature stages of development. MDSC promote tumor progression by regulating immune responses as well as tumor angiogenesis and cancer metastasis.
Conclusion:
In this review, we present an overview of the main key functions of both TGF-β1 and MDSC in cancer and in the immune system. Furthermore, the mutual contribution between TGF-β1 and MDSC in the regulation of immune system and cancer development will be analyzed.
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