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Glez-Vaz J, Azpilikueta A, Ochoa MC, Olivera I, Gomis G, Cirella A, Luri-Rey C, Álvarez M, Pérez-Gracia JL, Ciordia S, Eguren-Santamaria I, Alexandru R, Berraondo P, de Andrea C, Teijeira Á, Corrales F, Zapata JM, Melero I. CD137 (4-1BB) requires physically associated cIAPs for signal transduction and antitumor effects. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf6692. [PMID: 37595047 PMCID: PMC11044178 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf6692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
CD137 (4-1BB) is a member of the TNFR family that mediates potent T cell costimulatory signals upon ligation by CD137L or agonist monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). CD137 agonists attain immunotherapeutic antitumor effects in cancer mouse models, and multiple agents of this kind are undergoing clinical trials. We show that cIAP1 and cIAP2 are physically associated with the CD137 signaling complex. Moreover, cIAPs are required for CD137 signaling toward the NF-κB and MAPK pathways and for costimulation of human and mouse T lymphocytes. Functional evidence was substantiated with SMAC mimetics that trigger cIAP degradation and by transfecting cIAP dominant-negative variants. Antitumor effects of agonist anti-CD137 mAbs are critically dependent on the integrity of cIAPs in cancer mouse models, and cIAPs are also required for signaling from CARs encompassing CD137's cytoplasmic tail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Glez-Vaz
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Arantza Azpilikueta
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - María C. Ochoa
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Olivera
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Gabriel Gomis
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Asunta Cirella
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos Luri-Rey
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite Álvarez
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose L. Pérez-Gracia
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sergio Ciordia
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, CNB-CSIC, Proteored-ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Iñaki Eguren-Santamaria
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Raluca Alexandru
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos de Andrea
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Álvaro Teijeira
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Corrales
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, CNB-CSIC, Proteored-ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan M. Zapata
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols (IIBm), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Departments of Immunology-Immunotherapy, Pathology and Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Characterization of BV6-Induced Sensitization to the NK Cell Killing of Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma Spheroids. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060906. [PMID: 36980247 PMCID: PMC10047333 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the overall survival in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) has increased over the last decades, the most aggressive subtype of alveolar RMS is in dire need of novel treatment strategies. RMS cells evade cell death induction and immune control by increasing the expression of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), which can be exploited and targeted with stimulation with Smac mimetics. Here, we used the Smac mimetic BV6 to re-sensitize RMS spheroids to cell death, which increased killing induced by natural killer (NK) cells. Single BV6 treatment of RMS spheroids did not reduce spheroidal growth. However, we observed significant spheroidal decomposition upon BV6 pre-treatment combined with NK cell co-cultivation. Molecularly, IAPs s are rapidly degraded by BV6, which activates NF-κB signal transduction pathways in RMS spheroids. RNA sequencing analysis validated NF-κB activation and identified a plethora of BV6-regulated genes. Additionally, BV6 released caspases from IAP-mediated inhibition. Here, caspase-8 might play a major role, as knockdown experiments resulted in decreased NK cell-mediated attack. Taken together, we improved the understanding of the BV6 mechanism of RMS spheroid sensitization to cytotoxic immune cells, which could be suitable for the development of novel combinatory cellular immunotherapy with Smac mimetics.
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Xu C, He T, Shao X, Gao L, Cao L. m6A-related lncRNAs are potential biomarkers for the prognosis of COAD patients. Front Oncol 2022; 12:920023. [PMID: 36119534 PMCID: PMC9472555 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.920023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the most common subtype of colon cancer. However, the 5-year survival rate of COAD patients remains unsatisfactory. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential roles in the occurrence and development of COAD. Herein, we are committed to establish and validate a prognostic m6A-related lncRNA signature. Methods We obtained m6A-related lncRNAs by coexpression. The m6A-related lncRNA risk signature (m6ALncSig) was developed via univariate, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival curves, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and nomogram generation were conducted to assess m6ALncSig. In addition, the potential immunotherapeutic signatures were also discussed. Real-time PCR and CCK8 analysis were performed to evaluate the expression and functions of lncRNA UBA6-AS1, which was selected. Results The risk signature comprising 14 m6A-related lncRNAs (m6ALncSig) was established, which possessed a superior predictive ability of prognosis. Meanwhile, m6ALncSig was linked to immune cell infiltration. The level of UBA6-AS1 expression was validated in 17 pairs of COAD samples. In cell function experiments, UBA6-AS1 knockdown attenuated cell proliferation capacity. Conclusions Collectively, m6ALncSig could serve as an independent predictive factor for COAD and accurately estimate the outcome for COAD patients. Importantly, UBA6-AS1 was first identified as an oncogene in COAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tingting He
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ling Gao, ; Lei Cao,
| | - Lei Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ling Gao, ; Lei Cao,
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Särchen V, Shanmugalingam S, Kehr S, Reindl LM, Greze V, Wiedemann S, Boedicker C, Jacob M, Bankov K, Becker N, Wehner S, Theilen TM, Gretser S, Gradhand E, Kummerow C, Ullrich E, Vogler M. Pediatric multicellular tumor spheroid models illustrate a therapeutic potential by combining BH3 mimetics with Natural Killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:11. [PMID: 35013156 PMCID: PMC8748928 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The induction of apoptosis is a direct way to eliminate tumor cells and improve cancer therapy. Apoptosis is tightly controlled by the balance of pro- and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. BH3 mimetics neutralize the antiapoptotic function of Bcl-2 proteins and are highly promising compounds inducing apoptosis in several cancer entities including pediatric malignancies. However, the clinical application of BH3 mimetics in solid tumors is impeded by the frequent resistance to single BH3 mimetics and the anticipated toxicity of high concentrations or combination treatments. One potential avenue to increase the potency of BH3 mimetics is the development of immune cell-based therapies to counteract the intrinsic apoptosis resistance of tumor cells and sensitize them to immune attack. Here, we describe spheroid cultures of pediatric cancer cells that can serve as models for drug testing. In these 3D models, we were able to demonstrate that activated allogeneic Natural Killer (NK) cells migrated into tumor spheroids and displayed cytotoxicity against a wide range of pediatric cancer spheroids, highlighting their potential as anti-tumor effector cells. Next, we investigated whether treatment of tumor spheroids with subtoxic concentrations of BH3 mimetics can increase the cytotoxicity of NK cells. Notably, the cytotoxic effects of NK cells were enhanced by the addition of BH3 mimetics. Treatment with either the Bcl-XL inhibitor A1331852 or the Mcl-1 inhibitor S63845 increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells and reduced spheroid size, while the Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199 had no effect on NK cell-mediated killing. Taken together, this is the first study to describe the combination of BH3 mimetics targeting Bcl-XL or Mcl-1 with NK cell-based immunotherapy, highlighting the potential of BH3 mimetics in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzenz Särchen
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Senthan Shanmugalingam
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sarah Kehr
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Reindl
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Victoria Greze
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sara Wiedemann
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Cathinka Boedicker
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maureen Jacob
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katrin Bankov
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nina Becker
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sibylle Wehner
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Till M Theilen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen Gretser
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elise Gradhand
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Carsten Kummerow
- Department of Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Saarland, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Meike Vogler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Freeman AJ, Kearney CJ, Silke J, Oliaro J. Unleashing TNF cytotoxicity to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2021; 42:1128-1142. [PMID: 34750058 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced and secreted by cytotoxic lymphocytes upon tumor target recognition. Depending on the context, TNF can mediate either pro-survival or pro-death signals. The potential cytotoxicity of T cell-produced TNF, particularly in the context of T cell-directed immunotherapies, has been largely overlooked. However, a spate of recent studies investigating tumor immune evasion through the application of CRISPR-based gene-editing screens have highlighted TNF-mediated killing as an important component of the mammalian T cell antitumor repertoire. In the context of the current understanding of the role of TNF in antitumor immunity, we discuss these studies and touch on their therapeutic implications. Collectively, we provide an enticing prospect to augment immunotherapy responses through TNF cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Freeman
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Conor J Kearney
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - John Silke
- Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Jane Oliaro
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
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Unleashing the power of NK cells in anticancer immunotherapy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:337-349. [PMID: 34374809 PMCID: PMC8843917 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02120-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to their physiological role in removing damaged cells, natural killer (NK) cells represent ideal candidates for cellular immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Thereby, the cytotoxicity of NK cells is regulated by signals on both, the NK cells as well as the targeted tumor cells, and the interplay and balance of these signals determine the killing capacity of NK cells. One promising avenue in cancer treatment is therefore the combination of NK cell therapy with agents that either help to increase the killing capacity of NK cells or sensitize tumor cells to an NK cell-mediated attack. In this mini-review, we present different strategies that can be explored to unleash the potential of NK cell immunotherapy. In particular, we summarize how modulation of apoptosis signaling within tumor cells can be exploited to sensitize tumor cells to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
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Prospects for NK Cell Therapy of Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123719. [PMID: 33322371 PMCID: PMC7763692 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sarcomas are a group of aggressive tumors originating from mesenchymal tissues. Patients with advanced disease have poor prognosis due to the ineffectiveness of current treatment protocols. A subset of lymphocytes called natural killer (NK) cells is capable of effective surveillance and clearance of sarcomas, constituting a promising tool for immunotherapeutic treatment. However, sarcomas can cause impairment in NK cell function, associated with enhanced tumor growth and dissemination. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of sarcoma-mediated suppression of NK cells and their implications for the design of novel NK cell-based immunotherapies against sarcoma. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells with potent antitumor activity. One of the most NK cell cytotoxicity-sensitive tumor types is sarcoma, an aggressive mesenchyme-derived neoplasm. While a combination of radical surgery and radio- and chemotherapy can successfully control local disease, patients with advanced sarcomas remain refractory to current treatment regimens, calling for novel therapeutic strategies. There is accumulating evidence for NK cell-mediated immunosurveillance of sarcoma cells during all stages of the disease, highlighting the potential of using NK cells as a therapeutic tool. However, sarcomas display multiple immunoevasion mechanisms that can suppress NK cell function leading to an uncontrolled tumor outgrowth. Here, we review the current evidence for NK cells’ role in immune surveillance of sarcoma during disease initiation, promotion, progression, and metastasis, as well as the molecular mechanisms behind sarcoma-mediated NK cell suppression. Further, we apply this basic understanding of NK–sarcoma crosstalk in order to identify and summarize the most promising candidates for NK cell-based sarcoma immunotherapy.
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8
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Salimifard S, Karoon Kiani F, Sadat Eshaghi F, Izadi S, Shahdadnejad K, Masjedi A, Heydari M, Ahmadi A, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Hassannia H, Mohammadi H, Boroumand-Noughabi S, Keramati MR, Jadidi-Niaragh F. Codelivery of BV6 and anti-IL6 siRNA by hyaluronate-conjugated PEG-chitosan-lactate nanoparticles inhibits tumor progression. Life Sci 2020; 260:118423. [PMID: 32941896 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Increased expression of inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) genes has been associated with progressive cancer and chemoresistance. Accordingly, blockade of IAPs by BV6 has resulted in ameliorative outcomes. Interleukin (IL)-6 is another important mediator involved in the growth and survival of tumor cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that simultaneous inhibition of IAPs and IL-6 could be a new promising anti-tumor treatment strategy. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we generated and characterized hyaluronate-PEG-Chitosan-Lactate (H-PCL) nanoparticles (NPs) to simultaneously deliver IL6-specific siRNA and BV6 to 4T1 (breast cancer) and CT26 (colon cancer) cells, and investigate the anti-tumor properties of this combination therapy both in vitro and in vivo. KEY FINDINGS H-PCL NPs exhibited good physicochemical properties leading to efficient transfection of cancer cells and suppression of target molecules. Moreover, combination therapy synergistically increased apoptosis, as well as decreased cell migration, proliferation, colony formation, and angiogenesis in both 4T1 and CT26 cell lines and suppressed cancer progression in tumor-bearing mice that was associated with enhanced survival time. SIGNIFICANCE These findings imply the effectiveness of cancer combination therapy by using H-PCL NPs loaded with anti-IL-6 siRNA and BV6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevda Salimifard
- Cancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fariba Karoon Kiani
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Sadat Eshaghi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sepideh Izadi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Ali Masjedi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Morteza Heydari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Ahmadi
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, AL 35899, USA
| | | | - Hadi Hassannia
- Immunogenetic Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj. Iran
| | - Samaneh Boroumand-Noughabi
- Cancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Keramati
- Cancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Mechanisms of Resistance to NK Cell Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040893. [PMID: 32272610 PMCID: PMC7226138 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has recently been a major breakthrough in cancer treatment. Natural killer (NK) cells are suitable targets for immunotherapy owing to their potent cytotoxic activity that may target cancer cells in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and antigen-unrestricted manner. Current therapies targeting NK cells include monoclonal antibodies that promote NK cell antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the adoptive transfer of NK cells, the redirection of NK cells using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK cells and the use of cytokines and immunostimulatory drugs to boost the anti-tumor activity of NK cells. Despite some encouraging clinical results, patients receiving these therapies frequently develop resistance, and a myriad of mechanisms of resistance affecting both the immune system and cancer cells have been reported. A first contributing factor that modulates the efficacy of the NK cell therapy is the genetic profile of the individual, which regulates all aspects of NK cell biology. Additionally, the resistance of cancer cells to apoptosis and the immunoediting of cancer cells, a process that decreases their immunogenicity and promotes immunosuppression, are major determinants of the resistance to NK cell therapy. Consequently, the efficacy of NK cell anti-tumor therapy is specific to each patient and disease. The elucidation of such immunosubversive mechanisms is crucial to developing new procedures and therapeutic strategies to fully harness the anti-tumor potential of NK cells.
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10
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Nikkhoo A, Rostami N, Farhadi S, Esmaily M, Moghadaszadeh Ardebili S, Atyabi F, Baghaei M, Haghnavaz N, Yousefi M, Aliparasti MR, Ghalamfarsa G, Mohammadi H, Sojoodi M, Jadidi-Niaragh F. Codelivery of STAT3 siRNA and BV6 by carboxymethyl dextran trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles suppresses cancer cell progression. Int J Pharm 2020; 581:119236. [PMID: 32240809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
High expression of inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) molecules in cancer cells promotes cancer cell chemoresistance. Use of BV6, a well-known IAP inhibitor, along with inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which is an important factor in the survival of tumor cells, and NIK as a mediator of BV6 unpredicted side effects, can induce effective apoptosis in tumor cells. The present study has investigated the combination therapy of cancer cells using Carboxymethyl Dextran-conjugated trimethyl chitosan (TMC-CMD) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with NIK/STAT3-specific siRNA and BV6 to synergistically induce apoptosis in the breast, colorectal and melanoma cancer cell lines. Our results showed that in addition to enhanced pro-apoptotic effects, this combination therapy reduced proliferation, cell migration, colony formation, and angiogenesis, along with expression of factors including IL-10 and HIF in tumor cells. The results indicate the potential of this combination therapy for further investigation in animal models of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Nikkhoo
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Rostami
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shohreh Farhadi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Esmaily
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Baghaei
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navideh Haghnavaz
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Ghasem Ghalamfarsa
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Sojoodi
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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The Immuno-Modulatory Effects of Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein Antagonists in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010207. [PMID: 31947615 PMCID: PMC7017284 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the hallmarks of cancer cells is their ability to evade cell death via apoptosis. The inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are a family of proteins that act to promote cell survival. For this reason, upregulation of IAPs is associated with a number of cancer types as a mechanism of resistance to cell death and chemotherapy. As such, IAPs are considered a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment, based on the role of IAPs in resistance to apoptosis, tumour progression and poor patient prognosis. The mitochondrial protein smac (second mitochondrial activator of caspases), is an endogenous inhibitor of IAPs, and several small molecule mimetics of smac (smac-mimetics) have been developed in order to antagonise IAPs in cancer cells and restore sensitivity to apoptotic stimuli. However, recent studies have revealed that smac-mimetics have broader effects than was first attributed. It is now understood that they are key regulators of innate immune signalling and have wide reaching immuno-modulatory properties. As such, they are ideal candidates for immunotherapy combinations. Pre-clinically, successful combination therapies incorporating smac-mimetics and oncolytic viruses, as with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, have been reported, and clinical trials incorporating smac-mimetics and immune checkpoint blockade are ongoing. Here, the potential of IAP antagonism to enhance immunotherapy strategies for the treatment of cancer will be discussed.
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12
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Ye W, Gunti S, Allen CT, Hong Y, Clavijo PE, Van Waes C, Schmitt NC. ASTX660, an antagonist of cIAP1/2 and XIAP, increases antigen processing machinery and can enhance radiation-induced immunogenic cell death in preclinical models of head and neck cancer. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1710398. [PMID: 32002309 PMCID: PMC6959437 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2019.1710398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) antagonists have shown activity in preclinical models of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and work across several cancer types has demonstrated diverse immune stimulatory effects including enhancement of T cell, NK cell, and dendritic cell function. However, tumor-cell-intrinsic mechanisms for this immune upregulation have been largely unexplored. In this study, we show that ASTX660, an antagonist of cIAP1/2 and XIAP, induces expression of immunogenic cell death (ICD) markers in sensitive HNSCC cell lines in vitro. Experiments in syngeneic mouse models of HNSCC showed that ASTX660 can also enhance radiation-induced ICD in vivo. On a functional level, ASTX660 also enhanced killing of multiple murine cell lines by cytotoxic tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and when combined with XRT, stimulated clonal expansion of antigen-specific T lymphocytes and expression of MHC class I on the surface of tumor cells. Flow cytometry experiments in several human HNSCC cell lines showed that MHC class I (HLA-A,B,C) was reliably upregulated in response to ASTX660 + TNFα, while increases in other antigen processing machinery (APM) components were variable among different cell lines. These findings suggest that ASTX660 may enhance anti-tumor immunity both by promoting ICD and by enhancing antigen processing and presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenda Ye
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Medical Research Scholars Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sreenivasulu Gunti
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Clint T Allen
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Youji Hong
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paul E Clavijo
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Carter Van Waes
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nicole C Schmitt
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We aim to review the most recent findings in the use of NK cells in childhood cancers. RECENT FINDINGS Natural killer cells are cytotoxic to tumor cells. In pediatric leukemias, adoptive transfer of NK cells can bridge children not in remission to transplant. Interleukins (IL2, IL15) can enhance NK cell function. NK cell-CAR therapy has advantages of shorter life span that lessens chronic toxicities, lower risk of graft versus host disease when using allogeneic cells, ability of NK cells to recognize tumor cells that have downregulated MHC to escape T cells, and possibly less likelihood of cytokine storm. Cytotoxicity to solid tumors (rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, neuroblastoma) is seen with graft versus tumor effect in transplant and in combination with antibodies. Challenges lie in the microenvironment which is suppressive for NK cells. NK cell immunotherapy in childhood cancers is promising and recent works aim to overcome challenges.
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14
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Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins are potential targets for treatment of granulosa cell tumors - implications from studies in KGN. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:76. [PMID: 31412918 PMCID: PMC6694575 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-019-0549-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are derived from proliferating granulosa cells of the ovarian follicle. They are known for their late recurrence and most patients with an aggressive form die from their disease. There are no treatment options for this slowly proliferating tumor besides surgery and chemotherapy. In a number of tumors, analogs of the second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC), alone or in combination with other molecules, such as TNFα, are evolving as new treatment options. SMAC mimetics block inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), which bind caspases (e.g. XIAP), or activate the pro-survival NF-κB pathway (e.g. cIAP1/2). Expression of IAPs by GCTs is yet not fully elucidated but recently XIAP and its inhibition by SMAC mimetics in a combination therapy was described to induce apoptosis in a GCT cell line, KGN. We evaluated the expression of cIAP1 in GCTs and elucidated the effects of the SMAC mimetic BV-6 using KGN as a model. Results Employing immunohistochemistry, we observed cIAP1 expression in a tissue microarray (TMA) of 42 GCT samples. RT-PCR confirmed expression of cIAP1/2, as well as XIAP, in primary, patient-derived GCTs and in KGN. We therefore tested the ability of the bivalent SMAC mimetic BV-6, which is known to inhibit cIAP1/2 and XIAP, to induce cell death in KGN. A dose response study indicated an EC50 ≈ 8 μM for both, early (< 8) and advanced (> 80) passages, which differ in growth rate and presumably aggressiveness. Quantitative RT-PCR showed upregulation of NF-κB regulated genes in BV-6 stimulated cells. Blocking experiments with the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK indicated caspase-dependence. A concentration of 20 μM Z-VAD-FMK was sufficient to significantly reduce apoptosis. This cell death was further substantiated by results of Western Blot studies. Cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved PARP became evident in the BV-6 treated group. Conclusions Taken together, the results show that BV-6 is able to induce apoptosis in KGN cells. This approach may therefore offer a promising therapeutic avenue to treat GCTs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13048-019-0549-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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15
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HTiP: High-Throughput Immunomodulator Phenotypic Screening Platform to Reveal IAP Antagonists as Anti-cancer Immune Enhancers. Cell Chem Biol 2019; 26:331-339.e3. [PMID: 30639259 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Protein- and cell-based immunotherapeutic agents have revolutionized cancer treatment. However, small-molecule immunomodulators with favorable pharmacological properties for reaching intracellular targets remain to be developed. To explore the vast chemical space, a robust method that recapitulates the complex cancer-immune microenvironment in a high-throughput format is essential. To address this critical gap, we developed a high-throughput immunomodulator phenotypic screening platform, HTiP, which integrates the immune and cancer cell co-culture system with imaging- and biochemical-based multiplexed readouts. Using the HTiP platform, we have demonstrated its capability in modeling an oncogenic KRAS mutation-driven immunosuppressive phenotype. From a bioactive chemical library, multiple structurally distinct compounds were identified, all of which target the same class of proteins, inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP). IAP has demonstrated roles in cancer immunity. Identification of IAP antagonists as potent anti-tumor immune enhancers provides strong validating evidence for the use of the HTiP platform to discover small-molecule immunomodulators.
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16
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Abstract
The inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are a family of proteins that were chiefly known for their ability to inhibit apoptosis by blocking caspase activation or activity. Recent research has shown that cellular IAP1 (cIAP1), cIAP2, and X-linked IAP (XIAP) also regulate signaling by receptors of the innate immune system by ubiquitylating their substrates. These IAPs thereby act at the intersection of pathways leading to cell death and inflammation. Mutation of IAP genes can impair tissue homeostasis and is linked to several human diseases. Small-molecule IAP antagonists have been developed to treat certain malignant, infectious, and inflammatory diseases. Here, we will discuss recent advances in our understanding of the functions of cIAP1, cIAP2, and XIAP; the consequences of their mutation or dysregulation; and the therapeutic potential of IAP antagonist drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najoua Lalaoui
- Cell Signalling and Cell Death, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3050, Australia
| | - David Lawrence Vaux
- Cell Signalling and Cell Death, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3050, Australia
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Dougan SK, Dougan M. Regulation of innate and adaptive antitumor immunity by IAP antagonists. Immunotherapy 2018; 10:787-796. [PMID: 29807457 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2017-0185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the T-cell co-inhibitory checkpoint receptors or their ligands CTLA-4, PD-1 and PD-L1 using monoclonal antibodies has proven to be highly effective against many cancers. Yet many cancers remain resistant to checkpoint blockade, and durable remissions occur in only a minority of patients. Novel approaches to enhancing antitumor responses are thus necessary in order to expand the reach of these treatments. The inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) protein family comprises a diverse group of proteins, many of which have immunoregulatory roles. Small molecule IAP antagonists have been developed and are undergoing early phase clinical testing. These drugs were initially developed to promote tumor cell apoptosis; however, a considerable body of work now indicates that IAP antagonists induce antitumor activity through modulation of innate and adaptive immunity. Primarily through inhibition of cellular (c)-IAP1 and c-IAP2, IAP antagonists can activate alternative NF-κB signaling, promoting B-cell survival, activation of dendritic cells and delivering a broad co-stimulatory signal to T cells. At the same time, IAP antagonists can promote tumor cell intrinsic sensitization to innate immune signals, and enhance tumor cell killing by inflammatory cytokines and phagocytic macrophages. These drugs thus represent an attractive investigational approach to immunotherapy, providing a positive signaling counterpart to the relief of signal inhibition conferred by checkpoint blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology & Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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