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Blobner J, Dengler L, Eberle C, Herold JJ, Xu T, Beck A, Mühlbauer A, Müller KJ, Teske N, Karschnia P, van den Heuvel D, Schallerer F, Ishikawa-Ankerhold H, Thon N, Tonn JC, Subklewe M, Kobold S, Harter PN, Buchholz VR, von Baumgarten L. PD-1 blockade does not improve efficacy of EpCAM-directed CAR T-cell in lung cancer brain metastasis. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:255. [PMID: 39358663 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer brain metastasis has a devastating prognosis, necessitating innovative treatment strategies. While chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell show promise in hematologic malignancies, their efficacy in solid tumors, including brain metastasis, is limited by the immunosuppressive tumor environment. The PD-L1/PD-1 pathway inhibits CAR T-cell activity in the tumor microenvironment, presenting a potential target to enhance therapeutic efficacy. This study aims to evaluate the impact of anti-PD-1 antibodies on CAR T-cell in treating lung cancer brain metastasis. METHODS We utilized a murine immunocompetent, syngeneic orthotopic cerebral metastasis model for repetitive intracerebral two-photon laser scanning microscopy, enabling in vivo characterization of red fluorescent tumor cells and CAR T-cell at a single-cell level over time. Red fluorescent EpCAM-transduced Lewis lung carcinoma cells (EpCAM/tdtLL/2 cells) were implanted intracranially. Following the formation of brain metastasis, EpCAM-directed CAR T-cell were injected into adjacent brain tissue, and animals received either anti-PD-1 or an isotype control. RESULTS Compared to controls receiving T-cell lacking a CAR, mice receiving EpCAM-directed CAR T-cell showed higher intratumoral CAR T-cell densities in the beginning after intraparenchymal injection. This finding was accompanied with reduced tumor growth and translated into a survival benefit. Additional anti-PD-1 treatment, however, did not affect intratumoral CAR T-cell persistence nor tumor growth and thereby did not provide an additional therapeutic effect. CONCLUSION CAR T-cell therapy for brain malignancies appears promising. However, additional anti-PD-1 treatment did not enhance intratumoral CAR T-cell persistence or effector function, highlighting the need for novel strategies to improve CAR T-cell therapy in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Blobner
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig Maximilians University School of Medicine, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Dengler
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Constantin Eberle
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Julika J Herold
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Tao Xu
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Beck
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Center for Neuropathology and Prion Research, Faculty of Medicine LMU Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Anton Mühlbauer
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina J Müller
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Nico Teske
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp Karschnia
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominic van den Heuvel
- Department of Medicine I, Ludwig-Maximilians-University School of Medicine, Munich, Germany
| | - Ferdinand Schallerer
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Niklas Thon
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig Maximilians University School of Medicine, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Joerg-Christian Tonn
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Subklewe
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine III, Ludwig-Maximilians-University School of Medicine, Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kobold
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine IV, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, LMU University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Patrick N Harter
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany
- Center for Neuropathology and Prion Research, Faculty of Medicine LMU Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Veit R Buchholz
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Louisa von Baumgarten
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between the DKFZ Heidelberg and the University Hospital of the LMU, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig Maximilians University School of Medicine, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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Lutskovich D, Meleshko A, Katsin M. State of the art and perspectives of chimeric antigen receptor T cells cell therapy for neuroblastoma. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:1122-1131. [PMID: 38852096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is a solid, neuroendocrine pediatric solid tumor with divergent clinical behavior. Patients with high-risk diseases have poor prognoses despite complex multimodal therapy, which requires the search for new therapeutic approaches. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) have led to dramatic improvements in the survival of cancer patients, most notably those with hematologic malignancies. Early-phase clinical trials of CAR-T cell therapy for NB have proven safe and feasible, but limited clinical efficacy. At the same time, multiple experimental and preclinical studies have shown that the most common in clinical trials single 2nd or 3rd generation CAR structure is not sufficient for a complete response in solid tumors. Here, we review the recent advances and future perspectives associated with engineered receptors, including several antigens binding, armored CAR-T of 4th and 5th generation and CAR-T cell combination strategies with other immunotherapy. We also summarize the results and shortcomings of ongoing clinical trials of CAR-T therapy for NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzmitry Lutskovich
- Belarusian Research Center for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Minsk, Belarus.
| | - Alexander Meleshko
- Belarusian Research Center for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Mikalai Katsin
- Vitebsk Regional Clinical Cancer Centre, Vitebsk, Belarus
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Lin X, Dai Z, Tasiheng Y, Zhang R, Wang R, Dong J, Chen Y, Ma M, Zou X, Yan Y, Wang X, Yu X, Cheng H, Liu C. BCL6 overexpression in CD4 + T cells induces Tfh-like transdifferentiation and enhances antitumor efficiency of CAR-T therapy in pancreatic cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167346. [PMID: 38986820 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
PDAC is a typical "cold tumor" characterized by low immune cell infiltration and a suppressive immune microenvironment. We previously observed the existence of a rare group of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) that could enhance antitumor immune responses by recruiting other immune cells in PDAC. In this study, we ectopically expressed BCL6 in CD4+ T cells, and successfully induced Tfh-like transdifferentiation in vitro. This strategy provided abundant Tfh-like cells (iTfhs) that can recruit CD8+ T cells like endogenous Tfhs. Subsequently, Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) against both MSL (Mesothelin) and EPHA2 (Ephrin receptor A2) were used to modify iTfh cells, and the CAR-iTfh cells significantly improved infiltration and antitumor cytotoxicity of co-cultured CD8+ T cells. After that, combinatory administration of CAR-iTfh & CAR-CD8 T cell therapy displayed a better effect in repressing the PDAC tumors in xenograft mouse models, compared to conventional CAR-CD4 & CAR-CD8 combinations, and the models received the CAR-iTfh & CAR-CD8 T cells displayed a significantly improved survival rate. Our study revealed the plasticity of Thelper differentiation, expanded the source of Tfh-like cells for cell therapy, and demonstrated a novel and potentially more efficient cellular composition for CAR-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Lin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhengjie Dai
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yesiboli Tasiheng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Rulin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruijie Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia Dong
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yusheng Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mingjian Ma
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xuan Zou
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yu Yan
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Research Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - He Cheng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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4
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Lin X, Liu J, Zhang N, Zhou D, Liu Y. Decoding the immune microenvironment: unveiling CD8 + T cell-related biomarkers and developing a prognostic signature for personalized glioma treatment. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:331. [PMID: 39354483 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03517-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gliomas are aggressive brain tumors with poor prognosis. Understanding the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in gliomas is essential for developing effective immunotherapies. This study aimed to identify TIME-related biomarkers in glioma using bioinformatic analysis of RNA-seq data. METHODS In this study, we employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) on bulk RNA-seq data to identify TIME-related genes. To identify prognostic genes, we performed univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses. Based on these genes, we constructed a prognostic signature and delineated risk groups. To validate the prognostic signature, external validation was conducted. RESULTS CD8 + T cell infiltration was strongly correlated with glioma patient prognosis. We identified 115 CD8 + T cell-related genes through integrative analysis of bulk-seq data. CDCA5, KIF11, and KIF4A were found to be significant immune-related genes (IRGs) associated with overall survival in glioma patients and served as independent prognostic factors. We developed a prognostic nomogram that incorporated these genes, age, gender, and grade, providing a reliable tool for clinicians to predict patient survival probabilities. The nomogram's predictions were supported by calibration plots, further validating its accuracy. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our study identifies CD8 + T cell infiltration as a strong predictor of glioma patient outcomes and highlights the prognostic value of genes. The developed prognostic nomogram, incorporating these genes along with clinical factors, provides a reliable tool for predicting patient survival probabilities and has important implications for personalized treatment decisions in glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Lin
- Laboratory Department of Zengcheng Branch, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Ni Zhang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Dexiang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yakang Liu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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5
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Kara E, Jackson TL, Jones C, Sison R, McGee Ii RL. Mathematical modeling insights into improving CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors with bystander effects. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2024; 10:105. [PMID: 39341801 PMCID: PMC11439013 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-024-00435-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
As an adoptive cellular therapy, Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell (CAR T cell) therapy has shown remarkable success in hematological malignancies but only limited efficacy against solid tumors. Compared with blood cancers, solid tumors present a series of challenges that ultimately combine to neutralize the function of CAR T cells. These challenges include, but are not limited to, antigen heterogeneity - variability in the expression of the antigen on tumor cells, as well as trafficking and infiltration into the solid tumor tissue. A critical question for solving the heterogeneity problem is whether CAR T therapy induces bystander effects, such as antigen spreading. Antigen spreading occurs when CAR T cells activate other endogenous antitumor CD8 T cells against antigens that were not originally targeted. In this work, we develop a mathematical model of CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors that considers both antigen heterogeneity and bystander effects. Our model is based on in vivo treatment data that includes a mixture of target antigen-positive and target antigen-negative tumor cells. We use our model to simulate large cohorts of virtual patients to better understand the relationship involving bystander killing. We also investigate several strategies for enhancing bystander effects, thus increasing CAR T cell therapy's overall efficacy for solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erdi Kara
- Department of Mathematics, Spelman College, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Chartese Jones
- Department of Mathematics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Rockford Sison
- Department of Mathematics, Spelman College, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Reginald L McGee Ii
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA, USA
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6
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Ribatti D. The crossroad between tumor and endothelial cells. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:227. [PMID: 39325128 PMCID: PMC11427519 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01490-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial cells are critical in tumor development, and the specific targeting of endothelial cells offers a potent means to effectively impede angiogenesis and suppress the growth of tumors. Tumor endothelial cells are responsible for the loss of anticancer immunity, the so-called endothelial anergy, i.e., the unresponsiveness of tumor endothelial cells to pro-inflammatory stimulation, not allowing adhesion of immune cells to the endothelium. Endothelial cells downregulate antigen presentation and recruitment of immune cells, contributing to immunosuppression. Targeting endothelial cells may assist in improving the immune effect of immune cells in tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience, University of Bari Medical School, Università Degli Studi Di Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70125, Bari, Italy.
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7
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Ijaz M, Ullah Z, Aslam B, Khurshid M, Chen P, Guo B. From promise to progress: the dynamic landscape of glioblastoma immunotherapy. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104188. [PMID: 39307298 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common CNS cancer, it has dismal survival rates despite several effective mediators: intensified cytotoxic therapy, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, viral therapy, adoptive cell therapy, immune checkpoint blockade therapy, radiation therapy and vaccine therapy. This review examines the basic concepts underlying immune targeting and examines products such as checkpoint blockade drugs, CAR-T cells, oncolytic viruses, combinatory multimodal immunotherapy and cancer vaccines. New approaches to overcoming current constraints and challenges in GBM therapy are discussed, based on recent studies into these tactics, findings from ongoing clinical trials, as well as previous trial results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ijaz
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Zia Ullah
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Bilal Aslam
- Institute of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mohsin Khurshid
- Institute of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Pengfei Chen
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Bing Guo
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Evtimov VJ, Hammett MV, Pupovac A, Nguyen NYN, Shu R, Van Der Weyden C, Twigger R, Nisbet IT, Trounson AO, Boyd RL, Prince HM. Targeting TAG-72 in cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36298. [PMID: 39263154 PMCID: PMC11386021 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36298] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Current monoclonal antibody-based treatment approaches for cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) rely heavily on the ability to identify a tumor specific target that is essentially absent on normal cells. Herein, we propose tumor associated glycoprotein-72 (TAG-72) as one such target. TAG-72 is a mucin-associated, truncated O-glycan that has been identified as a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell target in solid tumor indications. To date, TAG-72 targeting has not been considered in the setting of hematological malignancies. Experimental design CD3+ cells from patients with CTCL were analyzed for TAG-72 expression by flow cytometry. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess TAG-72 expression in CTCL patient skin lesions and a TAG-72 ELISA was employed to assess soluble TAG-72 (CA 72-4) in patient plasma. TAG-72 CAR transduction was performed on healthy donor (HD) and CTCL T cells and characterized by flow cytometry. In vitro CAR-T cell function was assessed by flow cytometry and xCELLigence® using patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells and proof-of-concept ovarian cancer cell lines. In vivo CAR-T cell function was assessed in a proof-of-concept, TAG-72+ ovarian cancer xenograft mouse model. Results TAG-72 expression was significantly higher on total CD3+ T cells and CD4+ subsets in CTCL donors across disease stages, compared to that of HDs. TAG-72 was also present in CTCL patient skin lesions, whereas CA 72-4 was detected at low levels in both CTCL patient and HD plasma with no differences between the two groups. In vitro cytotoxicity assays showed that anti-TAG-72 CAR-T cells significantly, and specifically reduced CD3+TAG-72+ expressing CTCL cells, compared to culture with unedited T cells (no CAR). CTCL CAR-T cells had comparable function to HD CAR-T cells in vitro and CAR-T cells derived from CTCL patients eradicated cancer cells in vivo. Conclusion This study shows the first evidence of TAG-72 as a possible target for the treatment of CTCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera J Evtimov
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Maree V Hammett
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Aleta Pupovac
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Nhu-Y N Nguyen
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Runzhe Shu
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Carrie Van Der Weyden
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Robert Twigger
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Ian T Nisbet
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Alan O Trounson
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - Richard L Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Australia
| | - H Miles Prince
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Hou R, Zhang X, Wang X, Zhao X, Li S, Guan Z, Cao J, Liu D, Zheng J, Shi M. In vivo manufacture and manipulation of CAR-T cells for better druggability. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:1075-1093. [PMID: 38592427 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10185-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The current CAR-T cell therapy products have been hampered in their druggability due to the personalized preparation required, unclear pharmacokinetic characteristics, and unpredictable adverse reactions. Enabling standardized manufacturing and having clear efficacy and pharmacokinetic characteristics are prerequisites for ensuring the effective practicality of CAR-T cell therapy drugs. This review provides a broad overview of the different approaches for controlling behaviors of CAR-T cells in vivo. The utilization of genetically modified vectors enables in vivo production of CAR-T cells, thereby abbreviating or skipping the lengthy in vitro expansion process. By equipping CAR-T cells with intricately designed control elements, using molecule switches or small-molecule inhibitors, the control of CAR-T cell activity can be achieved. Moreover, the on-off control of CAR-T cell activity would yield potential gains in phenotypic remodeling. These methods provide beneficial references for the future development of safe, controllable, convenient, and suitable for standardized production of CAR-T cell therapy products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Hou
- College of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxue Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sijin Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhangchun Guan
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiang Cao
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ming Shi
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Wachholz GE, Akbari P, Huijbers EJM, Jalan P, van Beijnum JR, Griffioen AW. Targeting endothelial cell anergy to improve CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189155. [PMID: 39019408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy presents significant results, especially for the treatment of hematologic malignancies. However, there are limitations and challenges to be overcome to achieve similar success for the treatment of solid tumors. These challenges involve selection of the target, infiltration into the tumor microenvironment and maintenance of functionality. The tumor vasculature is a major barrier for leukocytes to enter the tumor parenchyma. Due to the exposure of the vasculature to angiogenic growth factors during tumor progression, the endothelial cells become anergic to inflammatory cytokines, resulting in reduced leukocyte adhesion molecule expression. As such adhesion molecules are a prerequisite for leukocyte extravasation, endothelial cell anergy allows tumors to escape from endogenous immunity, as well as from cellular immunotherapies such as CAR T cells. Hence, overcoming endothelial cell anergy, e.g. through the administration of angiogenesis inhibitors, is believed to restore anti-tumor immunity. Concomitantly, both endogenous immune cells as well as cellular therapeutics such as CAR T cells can permeate into the tumor parenchyma. Here, we discuss how prior or concomitant treatment with an antiangiogenic drug can improve CAR T cell therapy, to become an attractive strategy for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela E Wachholz
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Parvin Akbari
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth J M Huijbers
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Prachi Jalan
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Judy R van Beijnum
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan W Griffioen
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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11
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Zhao W, Yao Y, Li Q, Xue Y, Gao X, Liu X, Zhang Q, Zheng J, Sun S. Molecular mechanism of co-stimulatory domains in promoting CAR-T cell anti-tumor efficacy. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116439. [PMID: 39032532 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells have been defined as 'living drug'. Adding a co-stimulatory domain (CSD) has enhanced the anti-hematological effects of CAR-T cells, thereby elevating their viability for medicinal applications. Various CSDs have helped prepare CAR-T cells to study anti-tumor efficacy. Previous studies have described and summarized the anti-tumor efficacy of CAR-T cells obtained from different CSDs. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which different CSDs affect CAR-T function have been rarely reported. The role of CSDs in T cells has been significantly studied, but whether they can play a unique role as a part of the CAR structure remains undetermined. Here, we summarized the effects of CSDs on CAR-T signaling pathways based on the limited references and speculated the possible mechanism depending on the specific characteristics of CAR-T cells. This review will help understand the molecular mechanism of CSDs in CAR-T cells that exert different anti-tumor effects while providing potential guidance for further interventions to enhance anti-tumor efficacy in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanxin Zhao
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yizhou Yao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qihong Li
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Xue
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoge Gao
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiangye Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shishuo Sun
- Cancer Institute, the First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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12
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Gharib E, Robichaud GA. From Crypts to Cancer: A Holistic Perspective on Colorectal Carcinogenesis and Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9463. [PMID: 39273409 PMCID: PMC11395697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant global health burden, with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Recent progress in research highlights the distinct clinical and molecular characteristics of colon versus rectal cancers, underscoring tumor location's importance in treatment approaches. This article provides a comprehensive review of our current understanding of CRC epidemiology, risk factors, molecular pathogenesis, and management strategies. We also present the intricate cellular architecture of colonic crypts and their roles in intestinal homeostasis. Colorectal carcinogenesis multistep processes are also described, covering the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence, alternative serrated pathways, and the influential Vogelstein model, which proposes sequential APC, KRAS, and TP53 alterations as drivers. The consensus molecular CRC subtypes (CMS1-CMS4) are examined, shedding light on disease heterogeneity and personalized therapy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Gharib
- Département de Chimie et Biochimie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, NB E1C 8X3, Canada
| | - Gilles A Robichaud
- Département de Chimie et Biochimie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, NB E1C 8X3, Canada
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13
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Xia X, Yang Z, Lu Q, Liu Z, Wang L, Du J, Li Y, Yang DH, Wu S. Reshaping the tumor immune microenvironment to improve CAR-T cell-based cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:175. [PMID: 39187850 PMCID: PMC11346058 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02079-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In many hematologic malignancies, the adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has demonstrated notable success; nevertheless, further improvements are necessary to optimize treatment efficacy. Current CAR-T therapies are particularly discouraging for solid tumor treatment. The immunosuppressive microenvironment of tumors affects CAR-T cells, limiting the treatment's effectiveness and safety. Therefore, enhancing CAR-T cell infiltration capacity and resolving the immunosuppressive responses within the tumor microenvironment could boost the anti-tumor effect. Specific strategies include structurally altering CAR-T cells combined with targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Overall, monitoring the tumor microenvironment and the status of CAR-T cells is beneficial in further investigating the viability of such strategies and advancing CAR-T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueting Xia
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Zongxin Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Qisi Lu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
- Foresea Life Insurance Guangzhou General Hospital, Guangzhou, 511300, China
| | - Zhenyun Liu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Jinwen Du
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China.
| | - Dong-Hua Yang
- New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA.
| | - Shaojie Wu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China.
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14
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Wittling MC, Cole AC, Brammer B, Diatikar KG, Schmitt NC, Paulos CM. Strategies for Improving CAR T Cell Persistence in Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2858. [PMID: 39199630 PMCID: PMC11352972 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
CAR T cells require optimization to be effective in patients with solid tumors. There are many barriers affecting their ability to succeed. One barrier is persistence, as to achieve an optimal antitumor response, infused CAR T cells must engraft and persist. This singular variable is impacted by a multitude of factors-the CAR T cell design, lymphodepletion regimen used, expansion method to generate the T cell product, and more. Additionally, external agents can be utilized to augment CAR T cells, such as the addition of novel cytokines, pharmaceutical drugs that bolster memory formation, or other agents during either the ex vivo expansion process or after CAR T cell infusion to support them in the oppressive tumor microenvironment. This review highlights many strategies being used to optimize T cell persistence as well as future directions for improving the persistence of infused cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megen C. Wittling
- Department of Surgery/Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Anna C. Cole
- Department of Surgery/Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Brianna Brammer
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Kailey G. Diatikar
- Department of Surgery/Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nicole C. Schmitt
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Chrystal M. Paulos
- Department of Surgery/Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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15
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Nakagawara K, Ando M, Srirat T, Mise-Omata S, Hayakawa T, Ito M, Fukunaga K, Yoshimura A. NR4A ablation improves mitochondrial fitness for long persistence in human CAR-T cells against solid tumors. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008665. [PMID: 39151930 PMCID: PMC11331892 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antitumor effect of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells against solid tumors is limited due to various factors, such as low infiltration rate, poor expansion capacity, and exhaustion of T cells within the tumor. NR4A transcription factors have been shown to play important roles in T-cell exhaustion in mice. However, the precise contribution of each NR4a factor to human T-cell differentiation remains to be clarified. METHODS In this study, we deleted NR4A family factors, NR4A1, NR4A2, and NR4A3, in human CAR-T cells recognizing human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2) by using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We induced T-cell exhaustion in these cells in vitro through repeated co-culturing of CAR-T cells with Her2+A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells and evaluated cell surface markers such as memory and exhaustion phenotypes, proliferative capacity, cytokine production and metabolic activity. We validated the antitumor toxicity of NR4A1/2/3 triple knockout (TKO) CAR-T cells in vivo by transferring CAR-T cells into A549 tumor-bearing immunodeficient mice. RESULTS Human NR4A-TKO CAR-T cells were resistant against exhaustion induced by repeated antigen stimulation in vitro, and maintained higher tumor-killing activity both in vitro and in vivo compared with control CAR-T cells. A comparison of the effectiveness of NR4A single, double, and TKOs demonstrated that triple KO was the most effective in avoiding exhaustion. Furthermore, a strong enhancement of antitumor effects by NR4A TKO was also observed in T cells from various donors including aged persons. Mechanistically, NR4A TKO CAR-T cells showed enhanced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, therefore could persist for longer periods within the tumors. CONCLUSIONS NR4A factors regulate CAR-T cell persistence and stemness through mitochondrial gene expression, therefore NR4A is a highly promising target for the generation of superior CAR-T cells against solid tumors.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Animals
- Mice
- Mitochondria/metabolism
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 1/metabolism
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 1/genetics
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 2/metabolism
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 2/genetics
- Receptors, Thyroid Hormone/metabolism
- Receptors, Thyroid Hormone/genetics
- Neoplasms/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Female
- DNA-Binding Proteins
- Receptors, Steroid
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Nakagawara
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Ando
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tanakorn Srirat
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Setsuko Mise-Omata
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Chiba, Japan
| | - Taeko Hayakawa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minako Ito
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koichi Fukunaga
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Yoshimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Chiba, Japan
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16
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Ruixin S, Yifan L, Yansha S, Min Z, Yiwei D, Xiaoli H, Bizhi S, Hua J, Zonghai L. Dual targeting chimeric antigen receptor cells enhance antitumour activity by overcoming T cell exhaustion in pancreatic cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39129178 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Although our previous data indicated that claudin 18 isoform 2 (CLDN18.2)-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells displayed remarkable clinical efficacy in CLDN18.2-positive gastric cancer, their efficacy is limited in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The tumour microenvironment (TME) is one of the main obstacles to the efficacy of CAR-T and remodelling the TME may be a possible way to overcome this obstacle. The TME of PDAC is characterized by abundant cancer-related fibroblasts (CAFs), which hinder the infiltration and function of CLDN18.2-targeted CAR-T cells. The expression of fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP) is an important feature of active CAFs, providing potential targets for eliminating CAFs. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In this study, we generated 10 FAP/CLDN 18.2 dual-targeted CAR-T cells and evaluated their anti-tumour ability in vitro and in vivo. KEY RESULTS Compared with conventional CAR-T cells, some dual-targeted CAR-T cells showed improved therapeutic effects in mouse pancreatic cancers. Further, dual-targeted CAR-T cells with better anti-tumour effect could suppress the recruitment of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) to improve the immunosuppressive TME, which contributes to the survival of CD8+ T cells. Moreover, dual-targeted CAR-T cells reduced the exhaustion of T cells in transforming TGF-β dependent manner. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The dual-targeted CAR-T cells obtained enhancement of T effector function, inhibition of T cell exhaustion, and improvement of tumour microenvironment. Our findings provide a theoretical rationale for dual-targeted FAP/CLDN 18.2 CAR-T cells therapy in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Ruixin
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu Yifan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun Yansha
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhou Min
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Yiwei
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hu Xiaoli
- CARsgen Therapeutics, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi Bizhi
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- CARsgen Therapeutics, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- CARsgen Therapeutics, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Zonghai
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- CARsgen Therapeutics, Shanghai, China
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17
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Rehman M, Qaiser A, Khan HS, Manzoor S, Ashraf J. Enhancing CAR T cells function: role of immunomodulators in cancer immunotherapy. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:180. [PMID: 39105978 PMCID: PMC11303469 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
CAR T-cell therapy is a promising immunotherapy, providing successful results for cancer patients who are unresponsive to standard and traditional therapeutic approaches. However, there are limiting factors which create a hurdle in the therapy performing its role optimally. CAR T cells get exhausted, produce active antitumor responses, and might even produce toxic reactions. Specifically, in the case of solid tumors, chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells fail to produce the desired outcomes. Then, the need to use supplementary agents such as immune system modifying immunomodulatory agents comes into play. A series of the literature was studied to evaluate the role of immunomodulators including a phytochemical, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved targeted drugs, and ILs in support of their achievements in boosting the efficiency of CAR-T cell therapy. Some of the most promising out of them are reported in this article. It is expected that by using the right combinations of immunotherapy, immunomodulators, and traditional cancer treatments, the best possible cancer defying results may be produced in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheen Rehman
- Molecular Virology Lab, Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ariba Qaiser
- Molecular Virology Lab, Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Sardar Khan
- Molecular Virology Lab, Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sobia Manzoor
- Molecular Virology Lab, Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Javed Ashraf
- Institute of Dentistry, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
- Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
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18
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Jahanafrooz Z, Oroojalian F, Mokhtarzadeh A, Rahdar A, Díez-Pascual AM. Nanovaccines: Immunogenic tumor antigens, targeted delivery, and combination therapy to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22244. [PMID: 39138855 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Nanovaccines have been designed to overcome the limitations associated with conventional vaccines. Effective delivery methods such as engineered carriers or smart nanoparticles (NPs) are critical requisites for inducing self-tolerance and optimizing vaccine immunogenicity with minimum side effects. NPs can be used as adjuvants, immunogens, or nanocarriers to develop nanovaccines for efficient antigen delivery. Multiloaded nanovaccines carrying multiple tumor antigens along with immunostimulants can effectively increase immunity against tumor cells. They can be biologically engineered to boost interactions with dendritic cells and to allow a gradual and constant antigen release. Modifying NPs surface properties, using high-density lipoprotein-mimicking nanodiscs, and developing nano-based artificial antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cell-derived-exosomes are amongst the new developed technologies to enhance antigen-presentation and immune reactions against tumor cells. The present review provides an overview on the different perspectives, improvements, and barriers of successful clinical application of current cancer therapeutic and vaccination options. The immunomodulatory effects of different types of nanovaccines and the nanoparticles incorporated into their structure are described. The advantages of using nanovaccines to prevent and treat common illnesses such as AIDS, malaria, cancer and tuberculosis are discussed. Further, potential paths to develop optimal cancer vaccines are described. Given the immunosuppressive characteristics of both cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, applying immunomodulators and immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with other conventional anticancer therapies are necessary to boost the effectiveness of the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Jahanafrooz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Oroojalian
- Natural Products & Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences Bojnurd, Bojnurd, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Ahad Mokhtarzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abbas Rahdar
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
| | - Ana M Díez-Pascual
- Universidad de Alcalá, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Química Analítica, Química Física e Ingenieria Química, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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19
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Malik S, Sureka N, Ahuja S, Aden D, Zaheer S, Zaheer S. Tumor-associated macrophages: A sentinel of innate immune system in tumor microenvironment gone haywire. Cell Biol Int 2024. [PMID: 39054741 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a critical determinant in the initiation, progression, and treatment outcomes of various cancers. Comprising of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), immune cells, blood vessels, and signaling molecules, the TME is often likened to the soil supporting the seed (tumor). Among its constituents, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a pivotal role, exhibiting a dual nature as both promoters and inhibitors of tumor growth. This review explores the intricate relationship between TAMs and the TME, emphasizing their diverse functions, from phagocytosis and tissue repair to modulating immune responses. The plasticity of TAMs is highlighted, showcasing their ability to adopt either protumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic phenotypes based on environmental cues. In the context of cancer, TAMs' pro-tumorigenic activities include promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting immune responses, and fostering metastasis. The manuscript delves into therapeutic strategies targeting TAMs, emphasizing the challenges faced in depleting or inhibiting TAMs due to their multifaceted roles. The focus shifts towards reprogramming TAMs to an anti-tumorigenic M1-like phenotype, exploring interventions such as interferons, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and small molecule modulators. Noteworthy advancements include the use of CSF1R inhibitors, CD40 agonists, and CD47 blockade, demonstrating promising results in preclinical and clinical settings. A significant section is dedicated to Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) technology in macrophages (CAR-M cells). While CAR-T cells have shown success in hematological malignancies, their efficacy in solid tumors has been limited. CAR-M cells, engineered to infiltrate solid tumors, are presented as a potential breakthrough, with a focus on their development, challenges, and promising outcomes. The manuscript concludes with the exploration of third-generation CAR-M technology, offering insight into in-vivo reprogramming and nonviral vector approaches. In conclusion, understanding the complex and dynamic role of TAMs in cancer is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. While early-stage TAM-targeted therapies show promise, further extensive research and larger clinical trials are warranted to optimize their targeting and improve overall cancer treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaivy Malik
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Niti Sureka
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Durre Aden
- Department of Pathology, Hamdard Institute of Medical Science and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Samreen Zaheer
- Department of Radiotherapy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, New Delhi, India
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Qi C, Zhang P, Liu C, Zhang J, Zhou J, Yuan J, Liu D, Zhang M, Gong J, Wang X, Li J, Zhang X, Li N, Peng X, Liu Z, Yuan D, Baffa R, Wang Y, Shen L. Safety and Efficacy of CT041 in Patients With Refractory Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of Two Early-Phase Trials. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:2565-2577. [PMID: 38788174 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.02314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE CT041 is a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T-cell therapy that specifically targets claudin18.2 in solid tumors. Here, we report the pooled analysis results of two exploratory clinical trials to evaluate CT041 in patients with previously treated pancreatic cancer (PC). PATIENTS AND METHODS These two multicenter, open-label phase I/Ib trials (CT041-CG4006, CT041-ST-01) have a similar target population and evaluation schedule. The primary objective was to assess the safety and tolerability of CT041, whereas secondary objectives included efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity. RESULTS The combined cohort comprised 24 patients with advanced PC. Among them, five patients (20.8%) had previously received one line of therapy, whereas 19 (79.2%) received ≥2 lines of therapy. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events of grade 3 or more were preconditioning-related hematologic toxicities. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and GI disorders were most reported grade 1 or 2 adverse events. The overall response rate and disease control rate were 16.7% and 70.8%. The median progression-free survival (mPFS) after infusion was 3.3 months (95% CI, 1.8 to 6.2), and the median overall survival (mOS) was 10.0 months (95% CI, 5.5 to 17.6). The median duration of response (mDoR)was 9.5 months (95% CI, 2.6 to Not reached), with a DoR rate at 12 months of 50% (95% CI, 5.8 to 84.5). The mPFS (6.0 v 1.0 months, P < .001) and mOS (17.6 v 4.0 months, P < .001) were prolonged in patients achieving partial response/stable disease than the progressive disease group. CA19-9 levels had reduced by at least 30% in 17 (70.8%) patients. CONCLUSION In patients with metastatic PC after progression on previous therapy, CT041 demonstrated a tolerable safety profile and encouraging anticancer efficacy signals. Response benefit observed here needs to be ascertained in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsong Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Early Drug Development Centre, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Panpan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Early Drug Development Centre, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Early Drug Development Centre, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jiajia Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Early Drug Development Centre, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Early Drug Development Centre, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jifang Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xicheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | | | - Zhen Liu
- CARsgen Therapeutics Co, Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Yumeng Wang
- CARsgen Therapeutics Co, Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Beijing Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
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WU D, LI C, WANG Y, HE Z, JIN C, GUO M, CHEN R, ZHOU C. [Antitumor Study of Neoantigen-reactive T Cells Co-expressing IL-7 and CCL19
in Mouse Lung Cancer]. ZHONGGUO FEI AI ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF LUNG CANCER 2024; 27:504-513. [PMID: 39147704 PMCID: PMC11331258 DOI: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2024.106.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neoantigen reactive T cell (NRT) has the ability to inhibit the growth of tumors expressing specific neoantigens. However, due to the difficult immune infiltration and the inhibition of tumor microenvironment, the therapeutic effect of NRT in solid tumors is limited. In this study, we designed NRT cells (7×19 NRT) that can express both interleukin-7 (IL-7) and chemokine C-C motif ligand 19 (CCL19) in mouse lung cancer cells, and evaluated the difference in anti-tumor effect between 7×19 NRT cells and conventional NRT cells. METHODS We performed next-generation sequencing and neoantigen prediction for mouse Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC), prepared RNA vaccine, cultured NRT cells, constructed retroviral vectors encoding IL-7 and CCL19, transduced NRT cells and IL-7 and CCL19 were successfully expressed, and 7×19 NRT was successfully obtained. The anti-tumor effect was evaluated in vivo and in vitro in mice. RESULTS The 7×19 NRT cells significantly enhanced the proliferation and invasion ability of T cells by secreting IL-7 and CCL19, achieved significant tumor inhibition in the mouse lung cancer and extended the survival period of mice. The T cell infiltration into tumor tissue and the necrosis of tumor tissue increased significantly after 7×19 NRT treatment. In addition, both 7×19 NRT treatment and conventional NRT treatment were safe. CONCLUSIONS The anti-solid tumor ability of NRT cells is significantly enhanced by the arming of IL-7 and CCL19, which is a safe and effective genetic modification of NRT.
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Ercilla-Rodríguez P, Sánchez-Díez M, Alegría-Aravena N, Quiroz-Troncoso J, Gavira-O'Neill CE, González-Martos R, Ramírez-Castillejo C. CAR-T lymphocyte-based cell therapies; mechanistic substantiation, applications and biosafety enhancement with suicide genes: new opportunities to melt side effects. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1333150. [PMID: 39091493 PMCID: PMC11291200 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1333150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has made significant strides in cancer treatment with strategies like checkpoint blockade antibodies and adoptive T cell transfer. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) have emerged as a promising approach to combine these strategies and overcome their limitations. This review explores CAR-T cells as a living drug for cancer treatment. CAR-T cells are genetically engineered immune cells designed to target and eliminate tumor cells by recognizing specific antigens. The study involves a comprehensive literature review on CAR-T cell technology, covering structure optimization, generations, manufacturing processes, and gene therapy strategies. It examines CAR-T therapy in haematologic cancers and solid tumors, highlighting challenges and proposing a suicide gene-based mechanism to enhance safety. The results show significant advancements in CAR-T technology, particularly in structure optimization and generation. The manufacturing process has improved for broader clinical application. However, a series of inherent challenges and side effects still need to be addressed. In conclusion, CAR-T cells hold great promise for cancer treatment, but ongoing research is crucial to improve efficacy and safety for oncology patients. The proposed suicide gene-based mechanism offers a potential solution to mitigate side effects including cytokine release syndrome (the most common toxic side effect of CAR-T therapy) and the associated neurotoxicity.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/adverse effects
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Genes, Transgenic, Suicide
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Animals
- Genetic Therapy/adverse effects
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Sánchez-Díez
- ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio Cancer Stem Cell, HST group, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolás Alegría-Aravena
- Grupo de Biología y Producción de Cérvidos, Instituto de Desarrollo Regional, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
- Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (AECC)-Fundación Científica AECC, Albacete, Spain
| | - Josefa Quiroz-Troncoso
- ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio Cancer Stem Cell, HST group, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara E. Gavira-O'Neill
- Laboratorio Cancer Stem Cell, HST group, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Sección de Oncología, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel González-Martos
- ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio Cancer Stem Cell, HST group, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Ramírez-Castillejo
- ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio Cancer Stem Cell, HST group, Centro de Tecnología Biomédica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Sección de Oncología, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
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Liu B, Zhou H, Tan L, Siu KTH, Guan XY. Exploring treatment options in cancer: Tumor treatment strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:175. [PMID: 39013849 PMCID: PMC11252281 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01856-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional therapeutic approaches such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy have burdened cancer patients with onerous physical and psychological challenges. Encouragingly, the landscape of tumor treatment has undergone a comprehensive and remarkable transformation. Emerging as fervently pursued modalities are small molecule targeted agents, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), cell-based therapies, and gene therapy. These cutting-edge treatment modalities not only afford personalized and precise tumor targeting, but also provide patients with enhanced therapeutic comfort and the potential to impede disease progression. Nonetheless, it is acknowledged that these therapeutic strategies still harbour untapped potential for further advancement. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the merits and limitations of these treatment modalities holds the promise of offering novel perspectives for clinical practice and foundational research endeavours. In this review, we discussed the different treatment modalities, including small molecule targeted drugs, peptide drugs, antibody drugs, cell therapy, and gene therapy. It will provide a detailed explanation of each method, addressing their status of development, clinical challenges, and potential solutions. The aim is to assist clinicians and researchers in gaining a deeper understanding of these diverse treatment options, enabling them to carry out effective treatment and advance their research more efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beilei Liu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Licheng Tan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin To Hugo Siu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- Advanced Energy Science and Technology Guangdong Laboratory, Huizhou, China.
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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24
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Olejarz W, Sadowski K, Szulczyk D, Basak G. Advancements in Personalized CAR-T Therapy: Comprehensive Overview of Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7743. [PMID: 39062986 PMCID: PMC11276786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is a novel anticancer therapy using autologous or allogeneic T-cells. To date, six CAR-T therapies for specific B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), and multiple myeloma (MM) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Significant barriers to the effectiveness of CAR-T therapy include cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurotoxicity in the case of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation (Allo-SCT) graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), antigen escape, modest antitumor activity, restricted trafficking, limited persistence, the immunosuppressive microenvironment, and senescence and exhaustion of CAR-Ts. Furthermore, cancer drug resistance remains a major problem in clinical practice. CAR-T therapy, in combination with checkpoint blockades and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) or other drugs, appears to be an appealing anticancer strategy. Many of these agents have shown impressive results, combining efficacy with tolerability. Biomarkers like extracellular vesicles (EVs), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), circulating tumor (ctDNA) and miRNAs may play an important role in toxicity, relapse assessment, and efficacy prediction, and can be implicated in clinical applications of CAR-T therapy and in establishing safe and efficacious personalized medicine. However, further research is required to fully comprehend the particular side effects of immunomodulation, to ascertain the best order and combination of this medication with conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapies, and to find reliable predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Olejarz
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karol Sadowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Hematology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Daniel Szulczyk
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, The Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Basak
- Department of Hematology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
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Foulke JG, Chen L, Chang H, McManus CE, Tian F, Gu Z. Optimizing Ex Vivo CAR-T Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity Assay through Multimodality Imaging. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2497. [PMID: 39061136 PMCID: PMC11274748 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
CAR-T cell-based therapies have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating malignant cancers, especially liquid tumors, and are increasingly being evaluated in clinical trials for solid tumors. With the FDA's initiative to advance alternative methods for drug discovery and development, full human ex vivo assays are increasingly essential for precision CAR-T development. However, prevailing ex vivo CAR-T cell-mediated cytotoxicity assays are limited by their use of radioactive materials, lack of real-time measurement, low throughput, and inability to automate, among others. To address these limitations, we optimized the assay using multimodality imaging methods, including bioluminescence, impedance tracking, phase contrast, and fluorescence, to track CAR-T cells co-cultured with CD19, CD20, and HER2 luciferase reporter cancer cells in real-time. Additionally, we varied the ratio of CAR-T cells to cancer cells to determine optimal cytotoxicity readouts. Our findings demonstrated that the CAR-T cell group effectively attacked cancer cells, and the optimized assay provided superior temporal and spatial precision measurements of ex vivo CAR-T killing of cancer cells, confirming the reliability, consistency, and high throughput of the optimized assay.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Fang Tian
- American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Zhizhan Gu
- American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), Manassas, VA 20110, USA
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Zheng L, Wang H, Zhou J, Shi G, Ma J, Jiang Y, Dong Z, Li J, He YQ, Wu D, Sun J, Xu C, Li Z, Wang J. Off-the-shelf CAR-NK cells targeting immunogenic cell death marker ERp57 execute robust antitumor activity and have a synergistic effect with ICD inducer oxaliplatin. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008888. [PMID: 38964787 PMCID: PMC11227840 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-008888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) therapy holds great promise for treating hematologic tumors, but its efficacy in solid tumors is limited owing to the lack of suitable targets and poor infiltration of engineered NK cells. Here, we explore whether immunogenic cell death (ICD) marker ERp57 translocated from endoplasmic reticulum to cell surface after drug treatment could be used as a target for CAR-NK therapy. METHODS To target ERp57, a VHH phage display library was used for screening ERp57-targeted nanobodies (Nbs). A candidate Nb with high binding affinity to both human and mouse ERp57 was used for constructing CAR-NK cells. Various in vitro and in vivo studies were performed to assess the antitumor efficacy of the constructed CAR-NK cells. RESULTS We demonstrate that the translocation of ERp57 can not only be induced by low-dose oxaliplatin (OXP) treatment but also is spontaneously expressed on the surface of various types of tumor cell lines. Our results show that G6-CAR-NK92 cells can effectively kill various tumor cell lines in vitro on which ERp57 is induced or intrinsically expressed, and also exhibit potent antitumor effects in cancer cell-derived xenograft and patient-derived xenograft mouse models. Additionally, the antitumor activity of G6-CAR-NK92 cells is synergistically enhanced by the low-dose ICD-inducible drug OXP. CONCLUSION Collectively, our findings suggest that ERp57 can be leveraged as a new tumor antigen for CAR-NK targeting, and the resultant CAR-NK cells have the potential to be applied as a broad-spectrum immune cell therapy for various cancers by combining with ICD inducer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuhai Zheng
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jihao Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hematology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; the First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Guangwei Shi
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Neurosurgery & Medical Research Center, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde Foshan), Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingbo Ma
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuke Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyu Dong
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiexuan Li
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuan-Qiao He
- Center of Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of New Drug Evaluation and Transformation of Jiangxi Province Nanchang Royo Biotech Co,. Ltd, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dinglan Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, Clinical Innovation and Research Centre (CIRC), Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jichao Sun
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Integrative Medicine, Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Chronic Diseases, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhijie Li
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Department of Geriatrics and Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
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Chupradit K, Muneekaew S, Wattanapanitch M. Engineered CD147-CAR macrophages for enhanced phagocytosis of cancers. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:170. [PMID: 38954079 PMCID: PMC11219683 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has shown promising results in hematologic malignancies, but its effectiveness in solid cancers remains challenging. Macrophages are immune cells residing within the tumor microenvironment. They can phagocytose tumor cells. Recently, CAR macrophages (CAR-M) have been a promising candidate for treating solid cancers. One of the common cancer antigens overexpressed in various types of cancer is CD147. CAR-T and NK cells targeting CD147 antigen have shown significant efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma. Nevertheless, CAR-M targeting the CD147 molecule has not been investigated. In this study, we generated CAR targeting the CD147 molecule using the THP-1 monocytic cell line (CD147 CAR-M). The CD147 CAR-M exhibited typical macrophage characteristics, including phagocytosis of zymosan bioparticles and polarization ability toward M1 and M2 phenotypes. Furthermore, the CD147 CAR-M demonstrated enhanced anti-tumor activity against K562 and MDA-MB-231 cells without exhibiting off-target cytotoxicity against normal cells. Our research provides valuable insights into the potential of CD147 CAR-M as a promising platform for cancer immunotherapy, with applications in both hematologic malignancies and solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koollawat Chupradit
- Siriraj Center for Regenerative Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Saitong Muneekaew
- Siriraj Center for Regenerative Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Methichit Wattanapanitch
- Siriraj Center for Regenerative Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Zhang W, Wei W, Ma L, Du H, Jin A, Luo J, Li X. Mapping the landscape: a bibliometric study of global chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy research. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03258-6. [PMID: 38953967 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03258-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The rise of immunotherapy provided new approaches to cancer treatment. We aimed to describe the contribution of chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy to future prospects. We analyzed 8035 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection with CiteSpace that covered with various aspects with countries, institutions, authors, co-cited authors, journals, keywords, and references. The USA was the most prolific country, with the University of Pennsylvania being the most published institution. Among individual authors, June Carl H published the most articles, while Maude SL was the most frequently co-cited author. "Blood" emerged as the most cited journal. Keyword clustering revealed six core themes: "Expression," "Chimeric Antigen Receptor," "Tumor Microenvironment," "Blinatumomab," "Multiple Myeloma," and "Cytokine Release Syndrome." In the process of researching the timeline chart of keywords and references, "Large B-cell lymphoma" was located on the right side of the timeline. In the keyword prominence analysis, we found that the keywords "biomarkers," "pd-1," "antibody drug conjugate," "BCMA," and "chimeric antigen" had high explosive intensity in the recent past. We found that in terms of related diseases, "large B-cell lymphoma" and "cytokine release syndrome" are still difficult problems in the future. In the study of therapeutic methods, "BCMA," "PD-1," "chimeric antigen," and "antibody drug conjugate" deserve more attention from researchers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zhang
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Clinical Medical, First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenzhuo Wei
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lijun Ma
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - He Du
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Anran Jin
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jinyi Luo
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Mental Health and Psychological Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Dreyzin A, Rankin AW, Luciani K, Gavrilova T, Shah NN. Overcoming the challenges of primary resistance and relapse after CAR-T cell therapy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:745-763. [PMID: 38739466 PMCID: PMC11180598 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2349738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While CAR T-cell therapy has led to remarkable responses in relapsed B-cell hematologic malignancies, only 50% of patients ultimately have a complete, sustained response. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance and relapse after CAR T-cell therapy is crucial to future development and improving outcomes. AREAS COVERED We review reasons for both primary resistance and relapse after CAR T-cell therapies. Reasons for primary failure include CAR T-cell manufacturing problems, suboptimal fitness of autologous T-cells themselves, and intrinsic features of the underlying cancer and tumor microenvironment. Relapse after initial response to CAR T-cell therapy may be antigen-positive, due to CAR T-cell exhaustion or limited persistence, or antigen-negative, due to antigen-modulation on the target cells. Finally, we discuss ongoing efforts to overcome resistance to CAR T-cell therapy with enhanced CAR constructs, manufacturing methods, alternate cell types, combinatorial strategies, and optimization of both pre-infusion conditioning regimens and post-infusion consolidative strategies. EXPERT OPINION There is a continued need for novel approaches to CAR T-cell therapy for both hematologic and solid malignancies to obtain sustained remissions. Opportunities for improvement include development of new targets, optimally combining existing CAR T-cell therapies, and defining the role for adjunctive immune modulators and stem cell transplant in enhancing long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Dreyzin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children's National Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Alexander W Rankin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Katia Luciani
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Nirali N Shah
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Pandit S, Agarwalla P, Song F, Jansson A, Dotti G, Brudno Y. Implantable CAR T cell factories enhance solid tumor treatment. Biomaterials 2024; 308:122580. [PMID: 38640784 PMCID: PMC11125516 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has produced revolutionary success in hematological cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. Nonetheless, its translation to solid tumors faces challenges due to manufacturing complexities, short-lived in vivo persistence, and transient therapeutic impact. We introduce 'Drydux' - an innovative macroporous biomaterial scaffold designed for rapid, efficient in-situ generation of tumor-specific CAR T cells. Drydux expedites CAR T cell preparation with a mere three-day turnaround from patient blood collection, presenting a cost-effective, streamlined alternative to conventional methodologies. Notably, Drydux-enabled CAR T cells provide prolonged in vivo release, functionality, and enhanced persistence exceeding 150 days, with cells transitioning to memory phenotypes. Unlike conventional CAR T cell therapy, which offered only temporary tumor control, equivalent Drydux cell doses induced lasting tumor remission in various animal tumor models, including systemic lymphoma, peritoneal ovarian cancer, metastatic lung cancer, and orthotopic pancreatic cancer. Drydux's approach holds promise in revolutionizing solid tumor CAR T cell therapy by delivering durable, rapid, and cost-effective treatments and broadening patient accessibility to this groundbreaking therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharda Pandit
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Pritha Agarwalla
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Feifei Song
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anton Jansson
- Department of Product Development, Production and Design, School of Engineering, Jönköping University, Sweden
| | - Gianpietro Dotti
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yevgeny Brudno
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Hua Y, Shen Y. Applications of self-assembled peptide hydrogels in anti-tumor therapy. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2993-3008. [PMID: 38868817 PMCID: PMC11166105 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00172a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Peptides are a class of active substances composed of a variety of amino acids with special physiological functions. The rational design of peptide sequences at the molecular level enables their folding into diverse secondary structures. This property has garnered significant attention in the biomedical sphere owing to their favorable biocompatibility, adaptable mechanical traits, and exceptional loading capabilities. Concurrently with advancements in modern medicine, the diagnosis and treatment of tumors have increasingly embraced targeted and personalized approaches. This review explores recent applications of self-assembled peptides derived from natural amino acids in chemical therapy, immunotherapy, and other adjunctive treatments. We highlighted the utilization of peptide hydrogels as delivery systems for chemotherapeutic drugs and other bioactive molecules and then discussed the challenges and prospects for their future application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Hua
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
| | - Yang Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
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32
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Li N, Geng S, Dong ZZ, Jin Y, Ying H, Li HW, Shi L. A new era of cancer immunotherapy: combining revolutionary technologies for enhanced CAR-M therapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:117. [PMID: 38824567 PMCID: PMC11143597 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02032-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant advancements have been made in the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T treatment for blood cancers during the previous ten years. However, its effectiveness in treating solid tumors is still lacking, necessitating the exploration of alternative immunotherapies that can overcome the significant challenges faced by current CAR-T cells. CAR-based immunotherapy against solid tumors shows promise with the emergence of macrophages, which possess robust phagocytic abilities, antigen-presenting functions, and the ability to modify the tumor microenvironment and stimulate adaptive responses. This paper presents a thorough examination of the latest progress in CAR-M therapy, covering both basic scientific studies and clinical trials. This study examines the primary obstacles hindering the realization of the complete potential of CAR-M therapy, as well as the potential strategies that can be employed to overcome these hurdles. With the emergence of revolutionary technologies like in situ genetic modification, synthetic biology techniques, and biomaterial-supported gene transfer, which provide a wider array of resources for manipulating tumor-associated macrophages, we suggest that combining these advanced methods will result in the creation of a new era of CAR-M therapy that demonstrates improved efficacy, safety, and availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Key lab of Artificial Organs and Computational Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
- Department of Immunology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Shinan Geng
- Key lab of Artificial Organs and Computational Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Dong
- Key lab of Artificial Organs and Computational Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying Jin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Zhejiang Caner Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Hangjie Ying
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Zhejiang Caner Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Hung-Wing Li
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Liyun Shi
- Key lab of Artificial Organs and Computational Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China.
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Xu Y, Shan W, Luo Q, Zhang M, Huo D, Chen Y, Li H, Ye Y, Yu X, Luo Y, Huang H. Establishment of a humanized mouse model using steady-state peripheral blood-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells facilitates screening of cancer-targeted T-cell repertoires. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e118. [PMID: 38947755 PMCID: PMC11212321 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Cancer-targeted T-cell receptor T (TCR-T) cells hold promise in treating cancers such as hematological malignancies and breast cancers. However, approaches to obtain cancer-reactive TCR-T cells have been unsuccessful. Methods Here, we developed a novel strategy to screen for cancer-targeted TCR-T cells using a special humanized mouse model with person-specific immune fingerprints. Rare steady-state circulating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells were expanded via three-dimensional culture of steady-state peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and then the expanded cells were applied to establish humanized mice. The human immune system was evaluated according to the kinetics of dendritic cells, monocytes, T-cell subsets, and cytokines. To fully stimulate the immune response and to obtain B-cell precursor NAML-6- and triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231-targeted TCR-T cells, we used the inactivated cells above to treat humanized mice twice a day every 7 days. Then, human T cells were processed for TCR β-chain (TRB) sequencing analysis. After the repertoires had been constructed, features such as the fraction, diversity, and immune signature were investigated. Results The results demonstrated an increase in diversity and clonality of T cells after treatment. The preferential usage and features of TRBV, TRBJ, and the V-J combination were also changed. The stress also induced highly clonal expansion. Tumor burden and survival analysis demonstrated that stress induction could significantly inhibit the growth of subsequently transfused live tumor cells and prolong the survival of the humanized mice. Conclusions We constructed a personalized humanized mouse model to screen cancer-targeted TCR-T pools. Our platform provides an effective source of cancer-targeted TCR-T cells and allows for the design of patient-specific engineered T cells. It therefore has the potential to greatly benefit cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Xu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wei Shan
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Qian Luo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Meng Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dawei Huo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yijin Chen
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Honghu Li
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yishan Ye
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaohong Yu
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yi Luo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - He Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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Wang L, Zhang L, Dunmall LC, Wang YY, Fan Z, Cheng Z, Wang Y. The dilemmas and possible solutions for CAR-T cell therapy application in solid tumors. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216871. [PMID: 38604310 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, as an adoptive immunotherapy, is playing an increasingly important role in the treatment of malignant tumors. CAR-T cells are referred to as "living drugs" as they not only target tumor cells directly, but also induce long-term immune memory that has the potential to provide long-lasting protection. CD19.CAR-T cells have achieved complete response rates of over 90 % for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and over 60 % for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, the response rate of CAR-T cells in the treatment of solid tumors remains extremely low and the side effects potentially severe. In this review, we discuss the limitations that the solid tumor microenvironment poses for CAR-T application and the solutions that are being developed to address these limitations, in the hope that in the near future, CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors can attain the same success rates as are now being seen clinically for hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Wang
- Department of Oncology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China; National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lufang Zhang
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Louisa Chard Dunmall
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yang Yang Wang
- Department of General Pediatrics, Newham General Hospital, E13 8SL, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zaiwen Fan
- Department of Oncology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenguo Cheng
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaohe Wang
- National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, Sino British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Centre for Cancer Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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Li S, Xia Y, Hou R, Wang X, Zhao X, Guan Z, Ma W, Xu Y, Zhang W, Liu D, Zheng J, Shi M. Armed with IL-2 based fusion protein improves CAR-T cell fitness and efficacy against solid tumors. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167159. [PMID: 38583815 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy is regarded as a potent immunotherapy and has made significant success in hematologic malignancies by eliciting antigen-specific immune responses. However, response rates of CAR-T cell therapy against solid tumors with immunosuppressive microenvironments remain limited. Co-engineering strategies are advancing methods to overcome immunosuppressive barriers and enhance antitumor responses. Here, we engineered an IL-2 mutein co-engineered CAR-T for the improvement of CAR-T cells against solid tumors and the efficient inhibition of solid tumors. We equipped the CAR-T cells with co-expressing both tumor antigen-targeted CAR and a mutated human interleukin-2 (IL-2m), conferring enhanced CAR-T cells fitness in vitro, reshaped immune-excluded TME, enhanced CAR-T infiltration in solid tumors, and improved tumor control without significant systemic toxicity. Overall, this subject demonstrates the universal CAR-T cells armed strategy for the development and optimization of CAR-T cells against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijin Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yifei Xia
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Rui Hou
- College of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Zhangchun Guan
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Wen Ma
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yutong Xu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China.
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China.
| | - Ming Shi
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, China.
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Momtazkari S, Dev Choudhury A, Yong ZWE, Le DT, Nguyen Canh H, Harada K, Toshiyuki H, Osato M, Takahashi C, Koh CP, Voon DCC. Differential requirement for IL-2 and IL-23 in the differentiation and effector functions of Th17/ILC3-like cells in a human T cell line. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 115:1108-1117. [PMID: 38374693 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiae034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
A well-documented Achilles heel of current cancer immunotherapy approaches is T cell exhaustion within solid tumor tissues. The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-23 has been utilized to augment chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell survival and tumor immunity. However, in-depth interrogation of molecular events downstream of IL-23/IL-23 receptor signaling is hampered by a paucity of suitable cell models. The current study investigates the differential contribution of IL-2 and IL-23 to the maintenance and differentiation of the IL-23 responsive Kit225 T-cell line. We observed that IL-23 enhanced cellular fitness and survival but was insufficient to drive proliferation. IL-23 rapidly induced phosphorylation of STAT1, STAT3, and STAT4, and messenger RNA expression of IL17A, the archetypal effector cytokine of T helper 17 (Th17) cells, but not their lineage markers RORC and NCR1. These observations suggest that IL-23 endowed Th17/ILC3-like effector function but did not promote their differentiation. In contrast, spontaneous differentiation of Kit225 cells toward a Th17/ILC3-like phenotype was induced by prolonged IL-2 withdrawal. This was marked by strongly elevated basal IL17A and IL17F expression and the secretion of IL-17. Together, our data present Kit225 cells as a valuable model for studying the interplay between cytokines and their contribution to T cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Momtazkari
- Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Anahita Dev Choudhury
- Institute of Frontier Sciences Initiative, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, Japan
| | - Zachary Wei Ern Yong
- Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Dong Thanh Le
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Takaramachi, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Hiep Nguyen Canh
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Takaramachi, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Takaramachi, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Hori Toshiyuki
- Biomedical Sciences Course, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
| | - Motomi Osato
- International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 2-chōme-2-1 Honjō, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Chiaki Takahashi
- Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
- Institute of Frontier Sciences Initiative, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, Japan
| | - Cai Ping Koh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University, Jalan Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak, 30250, Malaysia
| | - Dominic Chih-Cheng Voon
- Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
- Institute of Frontier Sciences Initiative, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, Japan
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Weisbrod LJ, Thiraviyam A, Vengoji R, Shonka N, Jain M, Ho W, Batra SK, Salehi A. Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG): A review of current and emerging treatment strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 590:216876. [PMID: 38609002 PMCID: PMC11231989 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a childhood malignancy of the brainstem with a dismal prognosis. Despite recent advances in its understanding at the molecular level, the prognosis of DIPG has remained unchanged. This article aims to review the current understanding of the genetic pathophysiology of DIPG and to highlight promising therapeutic targets. Various DIPG treatment strategies have been investigated in pre-clinical studies, several of which have shown promise and have been subsequently translated into ongoing clinical trials. Ultimately, a multifaceted therapeutic approach that targets cell-intrinsic alterations, the micro-environment, and augments the immune system will likely be necessary to eradicate DIPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Weisbrod
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Anand Thiraviyam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Raghupathy Vengoji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Nicole Shonka
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Winson Ho
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA
| | - Afshin Salehi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5870, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Nebraska, Omaha, NE, 68114, USA.
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Soltantoyeh T, Akbari B, Shahosseini Z, Mirzaei HR, Hadjati J. Simultaneous targeting of Tim3 and A2a receptors modulates MSLN-CAR T cell antitumor function in a human cervical tumor xenograft model. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362904. [PMID: 38855110 PMCID: PMC11157064 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has transformed the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, its efficacy in solid tumors is limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment that compromises CAR T cell antitumor function in clinical settings. To overcome this challenge, researchers have investigated the potential of inhibiting specific immune checkpoint receptors, including A2aR (Adenosine A2 Receptor) and Tim3 (T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3), to enhance CAR T cell function. In this study, we evaluated the impact of genetic targeting of Tim3 and A2a receptors on the antitumor function of human mesothelin-specific CAR T cells (MSLN-CAR) in vitro and in vivo. Methods Second-generation anti-mesothelin CAR T cells were produced using standard cellular and molecular techniques. A2aR-knockdown and/or Tim3- knockdown anti-mesothelin-CAR T cells were generated using shRNA-mediated gene silencing. The antitumor function of CAR T cells was evaluated by measuring cytokine production, proliferation, and cytotoxicity in vitro through coculture with cervical cancer cells (HeLa cell line). To evaluate in vivo antitumor efficacy of manufactured CAR T cells, tumor growth and mouse survival were monitored in a human cervical cancer xenograft model. Results In vitro experiments demonstrated that knockdown of A2aR alone or in combination with Tim3 significantly improved CAR T cell proliferation, cytokine production, and cytotoxicity in presence of tumor cells in an antigen-specific manner. Furthermore, in the humanized xenograft model, both double knockdown CAR T cells and control CAR T cells could effectively control tumor growth. However, single knockdown CAR T cells were associated with reduced survival in mice. Conclusion These findings highlight the potential of concomitant genetic targeting of Tim3 and A2a receptors to augment the efficacy of CAR T cell therapy in solid tumors. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised in light of our observation of decreased survival in mice treated with single knockdown MSLN-CAR T cells, emphasizing the need for careful efficacy considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Soltantoyeh
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnia Akbari
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shahosseini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Virology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Li C, Zhang Z, Cai Q, Zhao Q, Wu H, Li J, Liu Y, Zhao X, Liu J, Ping Y, Shan J, Yang S, Zhang Y. Peripheral CX3CR1 + T cells combined with PD-1 blockade therapy potentiates the anti-tumor efficacy for lung cancer. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2355684. [PMID: 38798746 PMCID: PMC11123541 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2355684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Identifying tumor-relevant T cell subsets in the peripheral blood (PB) has become a potential strategy for cancer treatment. However, the subset of PB that could be used to treat cancer remains poorly defined. Here, we found that the CX3CR1+ T cell subset in the blood of patients with lung cancer exhibited effector properties and had a higher TCR matching ratio with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) compared to CX3CR1- T cells, as determined by paired single-cell RNA and TCR sequencing. Meanwhile, the anti-tumor activities, effector cytokine production, and mitochondrial function were enhanced in CX3CR1+ T cells both in vitro and in vivo. However, in the co-culture system of H322 cells with T cells, the percentages of apoptotic cells and Fas were substantially higher in CX3CR1+ T cells than those in CX3CR1- T cells. Fas-mediated apoptosis was rescued by treatment with an anti-PD-1 antibody. Accordingly, the combination of adoptive transfer of CX3CR1+ T cells and anti-PD-1 treatment considerably decreased Fas expression and improved the survival of lung xenograft mice. Moreover, an increased frequency of CX3CR1+ T cells in the PB correlated with a better response and prolonged survival of patients with lung cancer who received anti-PD-1 therapy. These findings indicate the promising potential of adoptive transfer of peripheral CX3CR1+ T cells as an individual cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Li
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qianfeng Cai
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qitai Zhao
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Han Wu
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - JunRu Li
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yaqing Liu
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jinyan Liu
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yu Ping
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiqi Shan
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shengli Yang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Zhang H, Yao J, Ajmal I, Farooq MA, Jiang W. shRNA-mediated gene silencing of HDAC11 empowers CAR-T cells against prostate cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369406. [PMID: 38835760 PMCID: PMC11148219 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are involved in several cellular functions, and their role in the immune system is of prime importance. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are an important set of enzymes that regulate and catalyze the deacetylation process. HDACs have been proven beneficial targets for improving the efficacy of immunotherapies. HDAC11 is an enzyme involved in the negative regulation of T cell functions. Here, we investigated the potential of HDAC11 downregulation using RNA interference in CAR-T cells to improve immunotherapeutic outcomes against prostate cancer. We designed and tested four distinct short hairpin RNA (shRNA) sequences targeting HDAC11 to identify the most effective one for subsequent analyses. HDAC11-deficient CAR-T cells (shD-NKG2D-CAR-T) displayed better cytotoxicity than wild-type CAR-T cells against prostate cancer cell lines. This effect was attributed to enhanced activation, degranulation, and cytokine release ability of shD-NKG2D-CAR-T when co-cultured with prostate cancer cell lines. Our findings reveal that HDAC11 interference significantly enhances CAR-T cell proliferation, diminishes exhaustion markers PD-1 and TIM3, and promotes the formation of T central memory TCM populations. Further exploration into the underlying molecular mechanisms reveals increased expression of transcription factor Eomes, providing insight into the regulation of CAR-T cell differentiation. Finally, the shD-NKG2D-CAR-T cells provided efficient tumor control leading to improved survival of tumor-bearing mice in vivo as compared to their wild-type counterparts. The current study highlights the potential of HDAC11 downregulation in improving CAR-T cell therapy. The study will pave the way for further investigations focused on understanding and exploiting epigenetic mechanisms for immunotherapeutic outcomes.
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Xu Y, Sun X, Tong Y. Interleukin-12 in multimodal tumor therapies for induction of anti-tumor immunity. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:170. [PMID: 38753073 PMCID: PMC11098992 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01011-2] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-12 (IL-12) can be used as an immunomodulator in cancer immunotherapy. And it has demonstrated enormous potential in inhibiting tumor growth and improving the tumor microenvironment (TME) by several preclinical models. However, some disappointing results have showed in the early clinical trials when IL-12 used as a single agent for systemic cancer therapy. Combination therapy is an effective way to significantly fulfill the great potential of IL-12 as an immunomodulator. Here, we discuss the effects of IL-12 combined with traditional methods (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery), targeted therapy or immunotherapy in the preclinical and clinical studies. Moreover, we summarized the potential mechanism underlying the anti-tumor effect of IL-12 in the combination strategies. And we also discussed the delivery methods and tumor-targeted modification of IL-12 and outlines future prospects for IL-12 as an immunomodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulian Xu
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueli Sun
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunguang Tong
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Omigen, Inc, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China.
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Satapathy BP, Sheoran P, Yadav R, Chettri D, Sonowal D, Dash CP, Dhaka P, Uttam V, Yadav R, Jain M, Jain A. The synergistic immunotherapeutic impact of engineered CAR-T cells with PD-1 blockade in lymphomas and solid tumors: a systematic review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389971. [PMID: 38799440 PMCID: PMC11116574 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor-T Cell (CAR-T) and immune checkpoint inhibitors like programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) blockers are showing promising results for numerous cancer patients. However, significant advancements are required before CAR-T therapies become readily available as off-the-shelf treatments, particularly for solid tumors and lymphomas. In this review, we have systematically analyzed the combination therapy involving engineered CAR-T cells and anti PD-1 agents. This approach aims at overcoming the limitations of current treatments and offers potential advantages such as enhanced tumor inhibition, alleviated T-cell exhaustion, heightened T-cell activation, and minimized toxicity. The integration of CAR-T therapy, which targets tumor-associated antigens, with PD-1 blockade augments T-cell function and mitigates immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment. To assess the impact of combination therapy on various tumors and lymphomas, we categorized them based on six major tumor-associated antigens: mesothelin, disialoganglioside GD-2, CD-19, CD-22, CD-133, and CD-30, which are present in different tumor types. We evaluated the efficacy, complete and partial responses, and progression-free survival in both pre-clinical and clinical models. Additionally, we discussed potential implications, including the feasibility of combination immunotherapies, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research to optimize treatment strategies and improve outcomes for cancer patients. Overall, we believe combining CAR-T therapy with PD-1 blockade holds promise for the next generation of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibhu Prasad Satapathy
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Pooja Sheoran
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Rohit Yadav
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dewan Chettri
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dhruba Sonowal
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Chinmayee Priyadarsini Dash
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prachi Dhaka
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Uttam
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Ritu Yadav
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Manju Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Aklank Jain
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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Chen K, Liu ML, Wang JC, Fang S. CAR-macrophage versus CAR-T for solid tumors: The race between a rising star and a superstar. BIOMOLECULES & BIOMEDICINE 2024; 24:465-476. [PMID: 37877819 PMCID: PMC11088881 DOI: 10.17305/bb.2023.9675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) has been demonstrated to be one of the most promising cancer immunotherapy strategies due to its active antitumor capabilities in vivo. Engineering T cells to overexpress chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), for example, has shown potent efficacy in the therapy of some hematologic malignancies. However, the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy against solid tumors is still limited due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors, difficulty in infiltrating tumor sites, lack of tumor-specific antigens, antigen escape, and severe side effects. In contrast, macrophages expressing CARs (CAR-macrophages) have emerged as another promising candidate in immunotherapy, particularly for solid tumors. Now at its nascent stage (with only one clinical trial progressing), CAR-macrophage still shows inspiring potential advantages over CAR-T in treating solid tumors, including more abundant antitumor mechanisms and better infiltration into tumors. In this review, we discuss the relationships and differences between CAR-T and CAR-macrophage therapies in terms of their CAR structures, antitumor mechanisms, challenges faced in treating solid tumors, and insights gleaned from clinical trials and practice for solid tumors. We especially highlight the potential advantages of CAR-macrophage therapy over CAR-T for solid tumors. Understanding these relationships and differences provides new insight into possible optimization strategies of both these two therapies in solid tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Chen
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Min-ling Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-cheng Wang
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuo Fang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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Zhu Y, Wang K, Yue L, Zuo D, Sheng J, Lan S, Zhao Z, Dong S, Hu S, Chen X, Feng M. Mesothelin CAR-T cells expressing tumor-targeted immunocytokine IL-12 yield durable efficacy and fewer side effects. Pharmacol Res 2024; 203:107186. [PMID: 38641176 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cell therapy has achieved remarkable efficacy in treating hematological malignancies, but it confronts many challenges in treating solid tumors, such as the immunosuppressive microenvironment of the solid tumors. These factors reduce the antitumor activity of CAR-T cells in clinical trials. Therefore, we used the immunocytokine interleukin-12 (IL-12) to enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy. In this study, we engineered CAR-IL12R54 T cells that targeted mesothelin (MSLN) and secreted a single-chain IL-12 fused to a scFv fragment R54 that recognized a different epitope on mesothelin. The evaluation of the anti-tumor activity of the CAR-IL12R54 T cells alone or in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody in vitro and in vivo was followed by the exploration of the functional mechanism by which the immunocytokine IL-12 enhanced the antitumor activity. CAR-IL12R54 T cells had potency to lyse mesothelin positive tumor cells in vitro. In vivo studies demonstrated that CAR-IL12R54 T cells were effective in controlling the growth of established tumors in a xenograft mouse model with fewer side effects than CAR-T cells that secreted naked IL-12. Furthermore, combination of PD-1 blockade antibody with CAR-IL12R54 T cells elicited durable anti-tumor responses. Mechanistic studies showed that IL12R54 enhanced Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production and dampened the activity of regulatory T cells (Tregs). IL12R54 also upregulated CXCR6 expression in the T cells through the NF-κB pathway, which facilitated T cell infiltration and persistence in the tumor tissues. In summary, the studies provide a good therapeutic option for the clinical treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuankui Zhu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Ke Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Linghe Yue
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Dianbao Zuo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Junfeng Sheng
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Sina Lan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Zilong Zhao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Shuang Dong
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, China
| | - Sheng Hu
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, China.
| | - Xin Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China.
| | - Mingqian Feng
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China; College of Biomedicine and Health, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China.
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Szulc A, Woźniak M. Targeting Pivotal Hallmarks of Cancer for Enhanced Therapeutic Strategies in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment-In Vitro, In Vivo and Clinical Trials Literature Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1483. [PMID: 38672570 PMCID: PMC11047913 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and explores innovative targeted therapies focused on specific hallmarks of cancer cells, aiming to revolutionize breast cancer treatment. TNBC, characterized by its lack of expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), presents distinct features, categorizing these invasive breast tumors into various phenotypes delineated by key elements in molecular assays. This article delves into the latest advancements in therapeutic strategies targeting components of the tumor microenvironment and pivotal hallmarks of cancer: deregulating cellular metabolism and the Warburg effect, acidosis and hypoxia, the ability to metastasize and evade the immune system, aiming to enhance treatment efficacy while mitigating systemic toxicity. Insights from in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials underscore the promising effectiveness and elucidate the mechanisms of action of these novel therapeutic interventions for TNBC, particularly in cases refractory to conventional treatments. The integration of targeted therapies tailored to the molecular characteristics of TNBC holds significant potential for optimizing clinical outcomes and addressing the pressing need for more effective treatment options for this aggressive subtype of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Woźniak
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Division of General and Experimental Pathology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Chen C, Park AK, Monroy I, Ren Y, Kim SI, Chaurasiya S, Priceman SJ, Fong Y. Using Oncolytic Virus to Retask CD19-Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells for Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer: Toward a Universal Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Strategy for Solid Tumor. J Am Coll Surg 2024; 238:436-447. [PMID: 38214445 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting the B-cell antigen CD19 are standard therapy for relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphoma and leukemia. CAR T cell therapy in solid tumors is limited due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and a lack of tumor-restricted antigens. We recently engineered an oncolytic virus (CF33) with high solid tumor affinity and specificity to deliver a nonsignaling truncated CD19 antigen (CD19t), allowing targeting by CD19-CAR T cells. Here, we tested this combination against pancreatic cancer. STUDY DESIGN We engineered CF33 to express a CD19t (CF33-CD19t) target. Flow cytometry and ELISA were performed to quantify CD19t expression, immune activation, and killing by virus and CD19-CAR T cells against various pancreatic tumor cells. Subcutaneous pancreatic human xenograft tumor models were treated with virus, CAR T cells, or virus+CAR T cells. RESULTS In vitro, CF33-CD19t infection of tumor cells resulted in >90% CD19t cell-surface expression. Coculturing CD19-CAR T cells with infected cells resulted in interleukin-2 and interferon gamma secretion, upregulation of T-cell activation markers, and synergistic cell killing. Combination therapy of virus+CAR T cells caused significant tumor regression (day 13): control (n = 16, 485 ± 20 mm 3 ), virus alone (n = 20, 254 ± 23 mm 3 , p = 0.0001), CAR T cells alone (n = 18, 466 ± 25 mm 3 , p = NS), and virus+CAR T cells (n = 16, 128 ± 14 mm 3 , p < 0.0001 vs control; p = 0.0003 vs virus). CONCLUSIONS Engineered CF33-CD19t effectively infects and expresses CD19t in pancreatic tumors, triggering cell killing and increased immunogenic response by CD19-CAR T cells. Notably, CF33-CD19t can turn cold immunologic tumors hot, enabling solid tumors to be targetable by agents designed against liquid tumor antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Chen
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
| | - Anthony K Park
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences (Park), City of Hope, Duarte, CA
| | - Isabel Monroy
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
| | - Yuwei Ren
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
| | - Sang-In Kim
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
| | | | - Saul J Priceman
- Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (Park, Monroy, Ren, Priceman)
- Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute (Priceman)
| | - Yuman Fong
- From the Departments of Surgery (Chen, Kim, Chaurasiya, Fong)
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García-García L, G. Sánchez E, Ivanova M, Pastora K, Alcántara-Sánchez C, García-Martínez J, Martín-Antonio B, Ramírez M, González-Murillo Á. Choosing T-cell sources determines CAR-T cell activity in neuroblastoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1375833. [PMID: 38601159 PMCID: PMC11004344 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1375833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The clinical success of chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells (CAR-T cells) for hematological malignancies has not been reproduced for solid tumors, partly due to the lack of cancer-type specific antigens. In this work, we used a novel combinatorial approach consisting of a versatile anti-FITC CAR-T effector cells plus an FITC-conjugated neuroblastoma (NB)-targeting linker, an FITC-conjugated monoclonal antibody (Dinutuximab) that recognizes GD2. Methods We compared cord blood (CB), and CD45RA-enriched peripheral blood leukapheresis product (45RA) as allogeneic sources of T cells, using peripheral blood (PB) as a control to choose the best condition for anti-FITC CAR-T production. Cells were manufactured under two cytokine conditions (IL-2 versus IL-7+IL-15+IL-21) with or without CD3/CD28 stimulation. Immune phenotype, vector copy number, and genomic integrity of the final products were determined for cell characterization and quality control assessment. Functionality and antitumor capacity of CB/45RA-derived anti-FITC CAR-T cells were analyzed in co-culture with different anti-GD2-FITC labeled NB cell lines. Results The IL-7+IL-15+IL-21 cocktail, in addition to co-stimulation signals, resulted in a favorable cell proliferation rate and maintained less differentiated immune phenotypes in both CB and 45RA T cells. Therefore, it was used for CAR-T cell manufacturing and further characterization. CB and CD45RA-derived anti-FITC CAR-T cells cultured with IL-7+IL-15+IL-21 retained a predominantly naïve phenotype compared with controls. In the presence of the NB-FITC targeting, CD4+ CB-derived anti-FITC CAR-T cells showed the highest values of co-stimulatory receptors OX40 and 4-1BB, and CD8+ CAR-T cells exhibited high levels of PD-1 and 4-1BB and low levels of TIM3 and OX40, compared with CAR-T cells form the other sources studied. CB-derived anti-FITC CAR-T cells released the highest amounts of cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α) into co-culture supernatants. The viability of NB target cells decreased to 30% when co-cultured with CB-derived CAR-T cells during 48h. Conclusion CB and 45RA-derived T cells may be used as allogeneic sources of T cells to produce CAR-T cells. Moreover, ex vivo culture with IL-7+IL-15+IL-21 could favor CAR-T products with a longer persistence in the host. Our strategy may complement the current use of Dinutuximab in treating NB through its combination with a targeted CAR-T cell approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena García-García
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena G. Sánchez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mariya Ivanova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Keren Pastora
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Alcántara-Sánchez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge García-Martínez
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Progenitor and Cell Therapy Research Group, La Princesa Institute of Health Research, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Martín-Antonio
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Ramírez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Progenitor and Cell Therapy Research Group, La Princesa Institute of Health Research, Madrid, Spain
| | - África González-Murillo
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Advanced Therapies Unit, Fundación Investigación Biomédica Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Progenitor and Cell Therapy Research Group, La Princesa Institute of Health Research, Madrid, Spain
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Chen J, Xiao Z, Wu H. Research progress of immunotherapy against anaplastic thyroid cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1365055. [PMID: 38595813 PMCID: PMC11002090 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1365055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is the most aggressive type of thyroid cancer. While ATC is rare, its mortality is high. Standard treatments, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, have demonstrated limited efficacy in managing ATC. However, the advent of immunotherapy has significantly improved the prognosis for patients with ATC. Immunotherapy effectively targets and eliminates tumor cells by using the power of the body's immune cells. The neoantigen is an atypical protein generated by somatic mutation, is exclusively observed in neoplastic cells, and is devoid of central tolerance. Neoantigens exhibit enhanced specificity towards tumor cells and display robust immunogenic properties. Currently, neoantigen therapy is primarily applied in immune checkpoint inhibitors and cellular immunotherapy, encompassing adoptive immunotherapy and tumor vaccines. This study discusses the mechanism, tumor microenvironment, clinical trials, adverse events, limitations and future directions associated with ATC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hongyan Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
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Pandit S, Smith BE, Birnbaum ME, Brudno Y. A biomaterial platform for T cell-specific gene delivery. Acta Biomater 2024; 177:157-164. [PMID: 38364929 PMCID: PMC10948289 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Efficient T cell engineering is central to the success of CAR T cell therapy but involves multiple time-consuming manipulations, including T cell isolation, activation, and transduction. These steps add complexity and delay CAR T cell manufacturing, which takes a mean time of 4 weeks. To streamline T cell engineering, we strategically combine two critical engineering solutions - T cell-specific lentiviral vectors and macroporous scaffolds - that enable T cell activation and transduction in a simple, single step. The T cell-specific lentiviral vectors (referred to as STAT virus) target T cells through the display of an anti-CD3 antibody and the CD80 extracellular domain on their surface and provide robust T cell activation. Biocompatible macroporous scaffolds (referred to as Drydux) mediate robust transduction by providing effective interaction between naïve T cells and viral vectors. We show that when unstimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are seeded together with STAT lentivirus on Drydux scaffolds, T cells are activated, selectively transduced, and reprogrammed in a single step. Further, we show that the Drydux platform seeded with PBMCs and STAT lentivirus generates tumor-specific functional CAR T cells. This potent combination of engineered lentivirus and biomaterial scaffold holds promise for an effective, simple, and safe avenue for in vitro and in vivo T cell engineering. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Manufacturing T cell therapies involves lengthy and labor-intensive steps, including T cell selection, activation, and transduction. These steps add complexity to current CAR T cell manufacturing protocols and limit widespread patient access to this revolutionary therapy. In this work, we demonstrate the combination of engineered virus and biomaterial platform that, together, enables selective T cell activation and transduction in a single step, eliminating multistep T cell engineering protocols and significantly simplifying the manufacturing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharda Pandit
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Blake E Smith
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge, MA, USA; Program in Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael E Birnbaum
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yevgeny Brudno
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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50
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Zhang PF, Xie D. Targeting the gut microbiota to enhance the antitumor efficacy and attenuate the toxicity of CAR-T cell therapy: a new hope? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362133. [PMID: 38558812 PMCID: PMC10978602 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) -T cell therapy has achieved tremendous efficacy in the treatment of hematologic malignancies and represents a promising treatment regimen for cancer. Despite the striking response in patients with hematologic malignancies, most patients with solid tumors treated with CAR-T cells have a low response rate and experience major adverse effects, which indicates the need for biomarkers that can predict and improve clinical outcomes with future CAR-T cell treatments. Recently, the role of the gut microbiota in cancer therapy has been established, and growing evidence has suggested that gut microbiota signatures may be harnessed to personally predict therapeutic response or adverse effects in optimizing CAR-T cell therapy. In this review, we discuss current understanding of CAR-T cell therapy and the gut microbiota, and the interplay between the gut microbiota and CAR-T cell therapy. Above all, we highlight potential strategies and challenges in harnessing the gut microbiota as a predictor and modifier of CAR-T cell therapy efficacy while attenuating toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhang
- Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Xie
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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