1
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Huang Y, Peng M, Yu W, Li H. Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling promotes immune evasion via the β-catenin/IKZF1/CCL5 axis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112534. [PMID: 38941667 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112534] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) has been shown to produce durable responses in various cancer patients. However, its efficacy is notably limited in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with only a small percentage of patients responding positively to treatment. The mechanism underlying resistance to ICT in HCC remains poorly understood. Here, we showed that combination treatment of ICG-001, an inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, with anti-PD-1 antibody effectively suppresses tumor growth and promotes the infiltration of immune cells such as DCs and CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). By inhibiting the activity of β-catenin and blocking its binding to the transcription factor IKAROS family zinc finger 1 (IKZF1), ICG-001 upregulated the expression of CCL5. Moreover, IKZF1 regulated the activity of the CCL5 promoter and its endogenous expression. Through inhibition of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, upregulation of the expression of CCL5 was achieved, which subsequently recruited more DCs into the TME via C-C motif chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5). This, in turn, resulted in an increase in the infiltration of CD8+ T cells in the TME, thereby enhancing the antitumor immune response. Analysis of a tissue microarray derived from HCC patient samples revealed a positive correlation between survival rate and prognosis and the expression levels of CCL5/CD8. In conclusion, our findings suggest that combined application of ICG-001 and anti-PD-1 antibody exhibits significantly enhanced antitumor efficacy. Hence, combining a WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor with anti-PD-1 therapy may be a promising treatment strategy for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Huang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Medical School of Southeast University, China
| | - Min Peng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Medical School of Southeast University, China
| | - Weiping Yu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Medical School of Southeast University, China.
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China.
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2
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Zhou J, Xu B, Shen Q, Zhang Z, Hu Y, Wang M, Su Y, Lei Z, Zhang W, Liu T, Liu H, Hu T, Zhou Y. Identification and biological evaluation of fused tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives as Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitors to suppress colorectal cancer. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116664. [PMID: 39018921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116664] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) has been becoming one of the most common causes of cancer mortality worldwide. Accumulating studies suggest that the progressive up-regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a crucial hallmark of CRC, and suppressing it is a promising strategy to treat CRC. Herein, we reported our latest efforts in the discovery of novel fused tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives with good anti-CRC activities by screening our in-house berberine-like library and further structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, in which we identified compound 10 is a potent lead compound with significant antiproliferation potencies. By the biotinylated probe and LC-MS/MS study, Hsp90 was identified as its molecular target, which is a fully different mechanism of action from what we reported before. Further studies showed compound 10 directly engaged the N-terminal site of Hsp90 and promoted the degradation of β-catenin, thereby suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. More importantly, compound 10 exhibits favorable pharmacokinetic parameters and significant anti-tumor efficacies in the HCT116 xenograft model. Taken together, this study furnished the discovery of candidate drug compound 10 possessing a novel fused tetrahydroisoquinoline scaffold with excellent in vitro and in vivo anti-CRC activities by targeting Hsp90 to disturb Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which lay a foundation for discovering more effective CRC-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Beibei Xu
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qianwen Shen
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Zhenwei Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Yuting Hu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Mengxue Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yongcheng Su
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Ziyu Lei
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Wenqing Zhang
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hong Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Tianhui Hu
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Tumor Metastasis, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
| | - Yu Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
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3
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Chen X, Peng H, Zhang Z, Yang C, Liu Y, Chen Y, Yu F, Wu S, Cao L. SPDYC serves as a prognostic biomarker related to lipid metabolism and the immune microenvironment in breast cancer. Immunol Res 2024:10.1007/s12026-024-09505-5. [PMID: 38890248 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-024-09505-5] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common malignant carcinoma among women globally and is resistant to several therapeutic agents. There is a need for novel targets to improve the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted to explore potentially relevant prognostic genes in breast cancer using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Gene subtypes were categorized by machine learning algorithms. The machine learning-related breast cancer (MLBC) score was evaluated through principal component analysis (PCA) of clinical patients' pathological statuses and subtypes. Immune cell infiltration was analyzed using the xCell and CIBERSORT algorithms. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis elucidated regulatory pathways related to speedy/RINGO cell cycle regulator family member C (SPDYC) in breast cancer. The biological functions and lipid metabolic status of breast cancer cell lines were validated via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR) assays, western blotting, CCK-8 assays, PI‒Annexin V fluorescence staining, transwell assays, wound healing assays, and Oil Red O staining. Key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in breast cancer from the TCGA and GEO databases were screened and utilized to establish the MLBC score. Moreover, the MLBC score we established was negatively correlated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Furthermore, the impacts of SPDYC on the tumor immune microenvironment and lipid metabolism in breast cancer were revealed and validated. SPDYC is closely related to activated dendritic cells and macrophages and is simultaneously correlated with the immune checkpoints CD47, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), and poliovirus receptor (PVR). SPDYC strongly correlated with C-C motif chemokine ligand 7 (CCL7), a chemokine that influences breast cancer patient prognosis. A significant relationship was discovered between key genes involved in lipid metabolism and SPDYC, such as ELOVL fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2), malic enzyme 1 (ME1), and squalene epoxidase (SQLE). Potent inhibitors targeting SPDYC in breast cancer were also discovered, including JNK inhibitor VIII, AICAR, and JW-7-52-1. Downregulation of SPDYC expression in vitro decreased proliferation, increased the apoptotic rate, decreased migration, and reduced lipid droplets. SPDYC possibly influences the tumor immune microenvironment and regulates lipid metabolism in breast cancer. Hence, this study identified SPDYC as a pivotal biomarker for developing therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haojie Peng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Changnian Yang
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yingqi Liu
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanzhen Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lixue Cao
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Syrnioti A, Petousis S, Newman LA, Margioula-Siarkou C, Papamitsou T, Dinas K, Koletsa T. Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Molecular Subtype-Specific Immune Landscapes with Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2094. [PMID: 38893213 PMCID: PMC11171372 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112094] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is characterized by distinct molecular subtypes with unique biological and clinical features. This systematic review aimed to identify articles examining the differences in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) across different TNBC molecular subtypes. Six studies meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed, utilizing gene expression profiling and bioinformatic analyses to classify TNBC samples into molecular subtypes, as well as immunohistochemistry and cell deconvolution methods to characterize the TIME. Results revealed significant heterogeneity in immune cell composition among TNBC subtypes, with the immunomodulatory (IM) subtype demonstrating robust immune infiltration, composed mainly of adaptive immune cells along with an increased density of CTLA-4+ and PD-1+ TILs, high PD-L1 tumor cell expression, and upregulation of FOXP3+ Tregs. A more immunosuppressive TIME with a predominance of innate immune cells and lower levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was observed in luminal androgen receptor (LAR) tumors. In mesenchymal stem-like (MSL) tumors, the TIME was mainly composed of innate immune cells, with a high number of M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), while the BL and M tumors displayed poor adaptive and innate immune responses, indicating an "immune-cold" phenotype. Differential activation of signaling pathways, genomic diversity, and metabolic reprogramming were identified as contributors to TIME heterogeneity. Understanding this interplay is crucial for tailoring therapeutic strategies, especially regarding immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Syrnioti
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Petousis
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.P.); (K.D.)
| | - Lisa A. Newman
- Department of Breast Surgery, New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Chrysoula Margioula-Siarkou
- MSc Program in Gynaecologic Oncology and Breast Oncology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Theodora Papamitsou
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Dinas
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.P.); (K.D.)
| | - Triantafyllia Koletsa
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
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5
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Han YJ, Shao CY, Yao Y, Zhang Z, Fang MZ, Gong T, Zhang YJ, Li M. Immunotherapy of microsatellite stable colorectal cancer: resistance mechanisms and treatment strategies. Postgrad Med J 2024; 100:373-381. [PMID: 38211949 DOI: 10.1093/postmj/qgad136] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, immunotherapy strategies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors have yielded good efficacy in colorectal cancer (CRC)especially in colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability-high. However, microsatellite-stable (MSS) CRCs account for about 85% of CRCs and are resistant to immunotherapy. Previous studies have shown that compared with MSS CRC, high microsatellite instability CRC possesses a higher frequency of mutations and can generate more neoantigens. Therefore, improving the sensitivity of immunotherapy to MSS CRC is a hot topic which is crucial for the treatment of MSS CRC. This review aims to discuss the factors contributing to MSS CRC insensitivity to immunotherapy and explored potential solutions to overcome immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jie Han
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Chi-Yun Shao
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Ying Yao
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210046, China
| | - Ming-Zhi Fang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Tao Gong
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Ya-Jie Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing, University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
- Department of Biobank, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 157 Damin Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210001, China
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6
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Lautert-Dutra W, M Melo C, Chaves LP, Crozier C, P Saggioro F, B Dos Reis R, Bayani J, Bonatto SL, Squire JA. Loss of heterozygosity impacts MHC expression on the immune microenvironment in CDK12-mutated prostate cancer. Mol Cytogenet 2024; 17:11. [PMID: 38704603 PMCID: PMC11070094 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-024-00680-6] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In prostate cancer (PCa), well-established biomarkers such as MSI status, TMB high, and PDL1 expression serve as reliable indicators for favorable responses to immunotherapy. Recent studies have suggested a potential association between CDK12 mutations and immunotherapy response; however, the precise mechanisms through which CDK12 mutation may influence immune response remain unclear. A plausible explanation for immune evasion in this subset of CDK12-mutated PCa may be reduced MHC expression. RESULTS Using genomic data of CDK12-mutated PCa from 48 primary and 10 metastatic public domain samples and a retrospective cohort of 53 low-intermediate risk primary PCa, we investigated how variation in the expression of the MHC genes affected associated downstream pathways. We classified the patients based on gene expression quartiles of MHC-related genes and categorized the tumors into "High" and "Low" expression levels. CDK12-mutated tumors with higher MHC-expressed pathways were associated with the immune system and elevated PD-L1, IDO1, and TIM3 expression. Consistent with an inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME) phenotype, digital cytometric analyses identified increased CD8 + T cells, B cells, γδ T cells, and M1 Macrophages in this group. In contrast, CDK12-mutated tumors with lower MHC expression exhibited features consistent with an immune cold TME phenotype and immunoediting. Significantly, low MHC expression was also associated with chromosome 6 loss of heterozygosity (LOH) affecting the entire HLA gene cluster. These LOH events were observed in both major clonal and minor subclonal populations of tumor cells. In our retrospective study of 53 primary PCa cases from this Institute, we found a 4% (2/53) prevalence of CDK12 mutations, with the confirmation of this defect in one tumor through Sanger sequencing. In keeping with our analysis of public domain data this tumor exhibited low MHC expression at the RNA level. More extensive studies will be required to determine whether reduced HLA expression is generally associated with primary tumors or is a specific feature of CDK12 mutated PCa. CONCLUSIONS These data show that analysis of CDK12 alteration, in the context of MHC expression levels, and LOH status may offer improved predictive value for outcomes in this potentially actionable genomic subgroup of PCa. In addition, these findings highlight the need to explore novel therapeutic strategies to enhance MHC expression in CDK12-defective PCa to improve immunotherapy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Lautert-Dutra
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Camila M Melo
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Luiz P Chaves
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Cheryl Crozier
- Diagnostic Development, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fabiano P Saggioro
- Department of Pathology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo B Dos Reis
- Department of Pathology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, Brazil
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, Brazil
| | - Jane Bayani
- Diagnostic Development, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandro L Bonatto
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul - PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 668, Porto Alegre, RS, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Jeremy A Squire
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Prêto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L3N6, Canada.
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7
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Liu W, Zhou H, Lai W, Hu C, Xu R, Gu P, Luo M, Zhang R, Li G. The immunosuppressive landscape in tumor microenvironment. Immunol Res 2024:10.1007/s12026-024-09483-8. [PMID: 38691319 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-024-09483-8] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have revolutionized the clinical outcome of many cancer patients. Despite the fact that impressive progress has been made in recent decades, the response rate remains unsatisfactory, and many patients do not benefit from ICIs. Herein, we summarized advanced studies and the latest insights on immune inhibitory factors in the tumor microenvironment. Our in-depth discussion and updated landscape of tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment may provide new strategies for reversing tumor immune evasion, enhancing the efficacy of ICIs therapy, and ultimately achieving a better clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuyi Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Huyue Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenjing Lai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Changpeng Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufu Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Menglin Luo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China.
| | - Guobing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, 83 Xinqiao Road, Shapingba, Chongqing, China.
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8
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Fan Q, Wang Y, Cheng J, Pan B, Zang X, Liu R, Deng Y. Single-cell RNA-seq reveals T cell exhaustion and immune response landscape in osteosarcoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362970. [PMID: 38629071 PMCID: PMC11018946 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362970] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background T cell exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment has been demonstrated as a substantial contributor to tumor immunosuppression and progression. However, the correlation between T cell exhaustion and osteosarcoma (OS) remains unclear. Methods In our present study, single-cell RNA-seq data for OS from the GEO database was analysed to identify CD8+ T cells and discern CD8+ T cell subsets objectively. Subgroup differentiation trajectory was then used to pinpoint genes altered in response to T cell exhaustion. Subsequently, six machine learning algorithms were applied to develop a prognostic model linked with T cell exhaustion. This model was subsequently validated in the TARGETs and Meta cohorts. Finally, we examined disparities in immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, immune-related pathways, and the efficacy of immunotherapy between high and low TEX score groups. Results The findings unveiled differential exhaustion in CD8+ T cells within the OS microenvironment. Three genes related to T cell exhaustion (RAD23A, SAC3D1, PSIP1) were identified and employed to formulate a T cell exhaustion model. This model exhibited robust predictive capabilities for OS prognosis, with patients in the low TEX score group demonstrating a more favorable prognosis, increased immune cell infiltration, and heightened responsiveness to treatment compared to those in the high TEX score group. Conclusion In summary, our research elucidates the role of T cell exhaustion in the immunotherapy and progression of OS, the prognostic model constructed based on T cell exhaustion-related genes holds promise as a potential method for prognostication in the management and treatment of OS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhi Fan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Boyu Pan
- Department of Orthopedics, Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaofang Zang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Renfeng Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Youwen Deng
- Department of Spine Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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9
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Yu M, Tang TS, Ghamsari L, Yuen G, Scuoppo C, Rotolo JA, Kappel BJ, Mason JM. Exponential Combination of a and e/g Intracellular Peptide Libraries Identifies a Selective ATF3 Inhibitor. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:753-762. [PMID: 38412264 PMCID: PMC10949195 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00779] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) is an activation transcription factor/cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) responsive element-binding (CREB) protein family member. It is recognized as an important regulator of cancer progression by repressing expression of key inflammatory factors such as interferon-γ and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4 (CCL4). Here, we describe a novel library screening approach that probes individual leucine zipper components before combining them to search exponentially larger sequence spaces not normally accessible to intracellular screening. To do so, we employ two individual semirational library design approaches and screen using a protein-fragment complementation assay (PCA). First, a 248,832-member library explored 12 amino acid positions at all five a positions to identify those that provided improved binding, with all e/g positions fixed as Q, placing selection pressure onto the library options provided. Next, a 59,049-member library probed all ten e/g positions with 3 options. Similarly, during e/g library screening, a positions were locked into a generically bindable sequence pattern (AIAIA), weakly favoring leucine zipper formation, while placing selection pressure onto e/g options provided. The combined a/e/g library represents ∼14.7 billion members, with the resulting peptide, ATF3W_aeg, binding ATF3 with high affinity (Tm = 60 °C; Kd = 151 nM) while strongly disfavoring homodimerization. Moreover, ATF3W_aeg is notably improved over component PCA hits, with target specificity found to be driven predominantly by electrostatic interactions. The combined a/e/g exponential library screening approach provides a robust, accelerated platform for exploring larger peptide libraries, toward derivation of potent yet selective antagonists that avoid homoassociation to provide new insight into rational peptide design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Yu
- Department
of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - T.M. Simon Tang
- Department
of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Lila Ghamsari
- Sapience
Therapeutics, Inc. 500
Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 320, Tarrytown, New York 10591, United States
| | - Graham Yuen
- Sapience
Therapeutics, Inc. 500
Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 320, Tarrytown, New York 10591, United States
| | - Claudio Scuoppo
- Sapience
Therapeutics, Inc. 500
Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 320, Tarrytown, New York 10591, United States
| | - Jim A. Rotolo
- Sapience
Therapeutics, Inc. 500
Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 320, Tarrytown, New York 10591, United States
| | - Barry J. Kappel
- Sapience
Therapeutics, Inc. 500
Mamaroneck Ave. Suite 320, Tarrytown, New York 10591, United States
| | - Jody M. Mason
- Department
of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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10
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Hasani-Sadrabadi MM, Majedi FS, Zarubova J, Thauland TJ, Arumugaswami V, Hsiai TK, Bouchard LS, Butte MJ, Li S. Harnessing Biomaterials to Amplify Immunity in Aged Mice through T Memory Stem Cells. ACS NANO 2024; 18:6908-6926. [PMID: 38381620 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The durability of a protective immune response generated by a vaccine depends on its ability to induce long-term T cell immunity, which tends to decline in aging populations. The longest protection appears to arise from T memory stem cells (TMSCs) that confer high expandability and effector functions when challenged. Here we engineered artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPC) with optimized size, stiffness and activation signals to induce human and mouse CD8+ TMSCs in vitro. This platform was optimized as a vaccine booster of TMSCs (Vax-T) with prolonged release of small-molecule blockade of the glycogen synthase kinase-3β together with target antigens. By using SARS-CoV-2 antigen as a model, we show that a single injection of Vax-T induces durable antigen-specific CD8+ TMSCs in young and aged mice, and generates humoral responses at a level stronger than or similar to soluble vaccines. This Vax-T approach can boost long-term immunity to fight infectious diseases, cancer, and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh S Majedi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Jana Zarubova
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Timothy J Thauland
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Vaithilingaraja Arumugaswami
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Tzung K Hsiai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Louis-S Bouchard
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- The Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Manish J Butte
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
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11
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Yaghoobi A, Rezaee M, Behnoush AH, Khalaji A, Mafi A, Houjaghan AK, Masoudkabir F, Pahlavan S. Role of long noncoding RNAs in pathological cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction: An emerging insight into molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116248. [PMID: 38325262 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116248] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of heart failure (HF), accounting for high mortality and morbidity worldwide. As a consequence of ischemia/reperfusion injury during MI, multiple cellular processes such as oxidative stress-induced damage, cardiomyocyte death, and inflammatory responses occur. In the next stage, the proliferation and activation of cardiac fibroblasts results in myocardial fibrosis and HF progression. Therefore, developing a novel therapeutic strategy is urgently warranted to restrict the progression of pathological cardiac remodeling. Recently, targeting long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) provided a novel insight into treating several disorders. In this regard, numerous investigations have indicated that several lncRNAs could participate in the pathogenesis of MI-induced cardiac remodeling, suggesting their potential therapeutic applications. In this review, we summarized lncRNAs displayed in the pathophysiology of cardiac remodeling after MI, emphasizing molecular mechanisms. Also, we highlighted the possible translational role of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets for this condition and discussed the potential role of exosomes in delivering the lncRNAs involved in post-MI cardiac remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Yaghoobi
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Malihe Rezaee
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Behnoush
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmohammad Khalaji
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mafi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Masoudkabir
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sara Pahlavan
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Ganesan S, Dharmarajan A, Sudhir G, Perumalsamy LR. Unravelling the Road to Recovery: Mechanisms of Wnt Signalling in Spinal Cord Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1. [PMID: 38421469 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex neurodegenerative pathology that consistently harbours a poor prognostic outcome. At present, there are few therapeutic strategies that can halt neuronal cell death and facilitate functional motor recovery. However, recent studies have highlighted the Wnt pathway as a key promoter of axon regeneration following central nervous system (CNS) injuries. Emerging evidence also suggests that the temporal dysregulation of Wnt may drive cell death post-SCI. A major challenge in SCI treatment resides in developing therapeutics that can effectively target inflammation and facilitate glial scar repair. Before Wnt signalling is exploited for SCI therapy, further research is needed to clarify the implications of Wnt on neuroinflammation during chronic stages of injury. In this review, an attempt is made to dissect the impact of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in relation to individual aspects of glial and fibrotic scar formation. Furthermore, it is also highlighted how modulating Wnt activity at chronic time points may aid in limiting lesion expansion and promoting axonal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchita Ganesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Clinical Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - G Sudhir
- Department of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
| | - Lakshmi R Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
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13
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Sacchi de Camargo Correia G, Zhao Y, Manochakian R, Lou Y. The role of immunotherapy sensitizers and novel immunotherapy modalities in the treatment of cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1336546. [PMID: 38476371 PMCID: PMC10928615 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1336546] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The importance of the immune system in the response against cancer has always been a subject of intense investigation. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors has transformed the landscape of oncologic treatments, while expanding the understanding of this disease's pathophysiology. Consequently, many therapies are being investigated, with interventions directed at different steps and pathways of the immune response. Relevantly, immunotherapy sensitizers have arisen as approaches focused on the synergistic effects of immunotherapy combination, or the combination of immunotherapy and other treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Concomitantly, novel immunotherapy modalities are also in development. Approaches focusing from the tumor intrinsic pathways to the tumor microenvironment and ex-vivo interventions, such as CAR-T cell therapies and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes are important examples. Although many of those interventions were initially envisioned as standalone options, their combination has demonstrated promising results in early-phase in vitro studies and clinical trials. The possibility of coupling different immunotherapy modalities, as well as with other techniques, further strengthen the concept of sensitizers, allowing for deeper and more robust responses in cancer treatment. This review aims to present an overview of the concepts of these sensitizing mechanisms that are the basis for the synergistic effects of immunotherapy combination, or the combination of immunotherapy and a multitude of therapeutic strategies. Novel immunotherapy modalities are also presented, focusing on the potential of combining them with sensitizer interventions. Understanding the complexity underlying these principles may be the key for future breakthroughs and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Rami Manochakian
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Yanyan Lou
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
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14
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Shirley CA, Chhabra G, Amiri D, Chang H, Ahmad N. Immune escape and metastasis mechanisms in melanoma: breaking down the dichotomy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1336023. [PMID: 38426087 PMCID: PMC10902921 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1336023] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most lethal neoplasms of the skin. Despite the revolutionary introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors, metastatic spread, and recurrence remain critical problems in resistant cases. Melanoma employs a multitude of mechanisms to subvert the immune system and successfully metastasize to distant organs. Concerningly, recent research also shows that tumor cells can disseminate early during melanoma progression and enter dormant states, eventually leading to metastases at a future time. Immune escape and metastasis have previously been viewed as separate phenomena; however, accumulating evidence is breaking down this dichotomy. Recent research into the progressive mechanisms of melanoma provides evidence that dedifferentiation similar to classical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), genes involved in neural crest stem cell maintenance, and hypoxia/acidosis, are important factors simultaneously involved in immune escape and metastasis. The likeness between EMT and early dissemination, and differences, also become apparent in these contexts. Detailed knowledge of the mechanisms behind "dual drivers" simultaneously promoting metastatically inclined and immunosuppressive environments can yield novel strategies effective in disabling multiple facets of melanoma progression. Furthermore, understanding progression through these drivers may provide insight towards novel treatments capable of preventing recurrence arising from dormant dissemination or improving immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl A Shirley
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Gagan Chhabra
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Deeba Amiri
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Hao Chang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Nihal Ahmad
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, United States
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15
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Li Y, Su H, Liu K, Zhao Z, Wang Y, Chen B, Xia J, Yuan H, Huang DS, Gu Y. Individualized detection of TMPRSS2-ERG fusion status in prostate cancer: a rank-based qualitative transcriptome signature. World J Surg Oncol 2024; 22:49. [PMID: 38331878 PMCID: PMC10854045 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-024-03314-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TMPRSS2-ERG (T2E) fusion is highly related to aggressive clinical features in prostate cancer (PC), which guides individual therapy. However, current fusion prediction tools lacked enough accuracy and biomarkers were unable to be applied to individuals across different platforms due to their quantitative nature. This study aims to identify a transcriptome signature to detect the T2E fusion status of PC at the individual level. METHODS Based on 272 high-throughput mRNA expression profiles from the Sboner dataset, we developed a rank-based algorithm to identify a qualitative signature to detect T2E fusion in PC. The signature was validated in 1223 samples from three external datasets (Setlur, Clarissa, and TCGA). RESULTS A signature, composed of five mRNAs coupled to ERG (five ERG-mRNA pairs, 5-ERG-mRPs), was developed to distinguish T2E fusion status in PC. 5-ERG-mRPs reached 84.56% accuracy in Sboner dataset, which was verified in Setlur dataset (n = 455, accuracy = 82.20%) and Clarissa dataset (n = 118, accuracy = 81.36%). Besides, for 495 samples from TCGA, two subtypes classified by 5-ERG-mRPs showed a higher level of significance in various T2E fusion features than subtypes obtained through current fusion prediction tools, such as STAR-Fusion. CONCLUSIONS Overall, 5-ERG-mRPs can robustly detect T2E fusion in PC at the individual level, which can be used on any gene measurement platform without specific normalization procedures. Hence, 5-ERG-mRPs may serve as an auxiliary tool for PC patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Li
- School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Hang Su
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Kaidong Liu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zhangxiang Zhao
- The Sino-Russian Medical Research Center of Jinan University, The Institute of Chronic Disease of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuquan Wang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bo Chen
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jie Xia
- School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Huating Yuan
- School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - De-Shuang Huang
- Bioinformatics and BioMedical Bigdata Mining Laboratory, School of Big Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
| | - Yunyan Gu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
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16
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Kazmi I, Altamimi ASA, Afzal M, Majami AA, AlGhamdi AS, Alkinani KB, Abbasi FA, Almalki WH, Alzera SI, Kukreti N, Fuloria NK, Sekar M, Abida. The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Prostate Cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:155134. [PMID: 38277746 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155134] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is an important worldwide medical concern, necessitating a greater understanding of the molecular processes driving its development. The Wnt/-catenin signaling cascade is established as a central player in PCa pathogenesis, and recent research emphasizes the critical involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in this scenario. This in-depth study seeks to give a thorough examination of the complex relationship between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin system in PCa. NcRNAs, such as circular RNAs (circRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), have been recognized as essential regulators that modulate numerous facets of the Wnt/β-catenin network. MiRNAs have been recognized as targeting vital elements of the process, either enhancing or inhibiting signaling, depending on their specific roles and targets. LncRNAs participate in fine-tuning the Wnt/β-catenin network as a result of complicated interplay with both upstream and downstream elements. CircRNAs, despite being a relatively recent addition to the ncRNA family, have been implicated in PCa, influencing the Wnt/β-catenin cascade through diverse mechanisms. This article encompasses recent advances in our comprehension of specific ncRNAs that participate in the Wnt/β-catenin network, their functional roles, and clinical relevance in PCa. We investigate their use as screening and predictive indicators, and targets for treatment. Additionally, we delve into the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin and other signaling networks in PCa and the role of ncRNAs within this complex network. As we unveil the intricate regulatory functions of ncRNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in PCa, we gain valuable insights into the disease's pathogenesis. The implementation of these discoveries in practical applications holds promise for more precise diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapeutic approaches, ultimately enhancing the care of PCa patients. This comprehensive review underscores the evolving landscape of ncRNA research in PCa and the potential for innovative interventions in the battle against this formidable malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Majami
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer S AlGhamdi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khadijah B Alkinani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, 21955 Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Al Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzera
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, 72341, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | | | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
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17
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Luo H, Luo J, Ding N, Zhang T, He Y. BICDL1 Predicts Poor Prognosis and is Correlated with Methylation and Immune Infiltration in Colorectal Cancer. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2023; 16:1109-1126. [PMID: 38149287 PMCID: PMC10750784 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s424209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bicaudal-D (BICD) Family Like Cargo Adaptor 1 (BICDL1) is an essential component of the molecular mechanism during neuronal development. However, BICDL1 has not been reported in cancer. Using bioinformatics analysis, we systematically evaluated the potential role of BICDL1 in CRC. Methods Colorectal cancer (CRC) and normal tissue samples were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), and Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) analysis, nomogram, COX analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the prognostic power. Correlation analysis was also conducted to explore the correlation between mRNA expression and the methylation level of BICDL1 using cBioPortal, and the correlation between immune infiltration and BICDL1. RT-qPCR and Western blot assays were performed to analyze BICDL1 expression level between human colorectal cancer cell lines and normal colonic epithelial cells. Results BICDL1 had a higher expression in CRC tissues than in normal tissues (p < 0.001) in TCGA and GES 74602 datasets. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with high BICDL1 expression had lower overall survival (OS) (1.53, 95% confidence interval: 1.07-2.17, p=0.019). The ROC curves demonstrated that BICDL1 has high specificity and efficiency in diagnosis (AUC=0.919, CI: 0.895-0.943). The expression level of BICDL1 was significantly correlated with the infiltrating levels of Treg (R=0.146, p <0.001), TFH (R=0.080, p=0.043), NK CD56bright cells (R=0.149, p <0.001), aDC (R=0.095, p=0.016), and T helper cell infiltration (R=-0.084, p=0.034). The correlation between BICDL1 expression and methylation levels was negative (R2=0.134, p <0.001), and CRC patients had lower methylation levels than normal people (p=0.036). BICDL1 mRNA and its protein expression levels in CRC cell lines (SW620) was markedly increased compared with that of normal colonic epithelial cells (NCM460) (p < 0.001). Conclusion BICDL1 may be a potential biomarker for evaluating immune infiltration levels and prognosis of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbiao Luo
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Chenzhou NO. 1 People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, 423000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ji Luo
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine on Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ning Ding
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongheng He
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410006, People’s Republic of China
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18
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Nasiri F, Farrokhi K, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Mahboubi Kancha M, Dashti Shokoohi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell immunotherapy for ovarian cancer: hushing the silent killer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1302307. [PMID: 38146364 PMCID: PMC10749368 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1302307] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most lethal gynecologic oncological indication, carcinoma of the ovary has been ranked as the 5th cause of cancer-related mortality in women, with a high percentage of the patients being diagnosed at late stages of the disease and a five-year survival of ~ 30%. Ovarian cancer patients conventionally undergo surgery for tumor removal followed by platinum- or taxane-based chemotherapy; however, a high percentage of patients experience tumor relapse. Cancer immunotherapy has been regarded as a silver lining in the treatment of patients with various immunological or oncological indications; however, mirvetuximab soravtansine (a folate receptor α-specific mAb) and bevacizumab (a VEGF-A-specific mAb) are the only immunotherapeutics approved for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has achieved tremendous clinical success in the treatment of patients with certain B-cell lymphomas and leukemias, as well as multiple myeloma. In the context of solid tumors, CAR-T therapies face serious obstacles that limit their therapeutic benefit. Such hindrances include the immunosuppressive nature of solid tumors, impaired tumor infiltration, lack of qualified tumor-associated antigens, and compromised stimulation and persistence of CAR-Ts following administration. Over the past years, researchers have made arduous attempts to apply CAR-T therapy to ovarian cancer. In this review, we outline the principles of CAR-T therapy and then highlight its limitations in the context of solid tumors. Ultimately, we focus on preclinical and clinical findings achieved in CAR-T-mediated targeting of different ovarian cancer-associated target antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nasiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Production Platforms & Analytics, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Khadijeh Farrokhi
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maral Mahboubi Kancha
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Setareh Dashti Shokoohi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Kleszcz R, Paluszczak J, Belka M, Krajka-Kuźniak V. PRI-724 and IWP-O1 Wnt Signaling Pathway Inhibitors Modulate the Expression of Glycolytic Enzymes in Tongue Cancer Cell Lines. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9579-9592. [PMID: 38132445 PMCID: PMC10742556 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45120599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of energetic metabolism is one of the hallmarks of cancer cells. Indeed, the growth of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells depends heavily on glycolytic activity, which can be considered a potential therapeutic target. Wnt signaling is one of the pathways that undergoes upregulation in HNSCC. Our previous studies have shown that Wnt signaling inhibitors-PRI-724 and IWP-O1-attenuate tongue SCC survival and reduce glucose uptake and lactate release. The aim of this research was to further evaluate the possible mechanisms of the previously observed effects. We assessed the effect of PRI-724 and IWP-O1 on the expression of selected glycolytic enzymes: phosphofructokinase M, pyruvate kinase M2, and lactate dehydrogenase. Relative transcript expression was assessed by real-time PCR, and protein levels by Western blot. Moreover, clinical data concerning mRNA and protein expression, gene promoter methylation, and HNSCC patients' survival time were analyzed by the UALCAN tool, and protein-protein interaction was assessed using the STRING database. Experimental and bioinformatic data confirmed the relation between Wnt signaling and glycolytic enzymes in tongue cancer cells and HNSCC clinical samples. Overall, the inhibition of glucose metabolism by Wnt signaling inhibitors is a promising mode of action against tongue cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Kleszcz
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznań, Poland; (J.P.); (M.B.); (V.K.-K.)
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20
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Long NH, Lee SJ. Targeting casein kinase 1 for cancer therapy: current strategies and future perspectives. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1244775. [PMID: 38023245 PMCID: PMC10666751 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1244775] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Casein Kinase 1 (CK1) is a family of serine/threonine protein kinases that play a crucial role in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, survival, and metabolism. The dysregulation of CK1 expression has been implicated in the development and progression of several types of cancer, making it an attractive target for anticancer therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the current strategies employed to target CK1 for cancer therapy and discuss the future perspectives in this field. We highlight the different approaches, including small molecule inhibitors, RNA interference, genome editing, and immunotherapies, which hold immense potential for targeted modulation of CK1 activity in cancer cells. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges associated with targeting CK1 and propose potential strategies to overcome these hurdles. Overall, targeting CK1 holds great promise as a therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment, and further research in this area is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sook-Jeong Lee
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
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21
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Tabasum S, Thapa D, Giobbie-Hurder A, Weirather JL, Campisi M, Schol PJ, Li X, Li J, Yoon CH, Manos MP, Barbie DA, Hodi FS. EDIL3 as an Angiogenic Target of Immune Exclusion Following Checkpoint Blockade. Cancer Immunol Res 2023; 11:1493-1507. [PMID: 37728484 PMCID: PMC10618652 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0171] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has become the standard of care for several solid tumors. Multiple combinatorial approaches have been studied to improve therapeutic efficacy. The combination of antiangiogenic agents and ICB has demonstrated efficacy in several cancers. To improve the mechanistic understanding of synergies with these treatment modalities, we performed screens of sera from long-term responding patients treated with ipilimumab and bevacizumab. We discovered a high-titer antibody response against EGF-like repeats and discoidin I-like domains protein 3 (EDIL3) that correlated with favorable clinical outcomes. EDIL3 is an extracellular protein, previously identified as a marker of poor prognosis in various malignancies. Our Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion analysis predicted that EDIL3 was associated with immune exclusion signatures for cytotoxic immune cell infiltration and nonresponse to ICB. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) were predicted as the source of EDIL3 in immune exclusion-related cells. Furthermore, The Cancer Genome Atlas Skin Cutaneous Melanoma (TCGA-SKCM) and CheckMate 064 data analyses correlated high levels of EDIL3 with increased pan-fibroblast TGFβ response, enrichment of angiogenic signatures, and induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Our in vitro studies validated EDIL3 overexpression and TGFβ regulation in patient-derived CAFs. In pretreatment serum samples from patients, circulating levels of EDIL3 were associated with circulating levels of VEGF, and like VEGF, EDIL3 increased the angiogenic abilities of patient-derived tumor endothelial cells (TEC). Mechanistically, three-dimensional microfluidic cultures and two-dimensional transmigration assays with TEC endorsed EDIL3-mediated disruption of the lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)-ICAM-1 interaction as a possible means of T-cell exclusion. We propose EDIL3 as a potential target for improving the transendothelial migration of immune cells and efficacy of ICB therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Tabasum
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dinesh Thapa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anita Giobbie-Hurder
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jason L. Weirather
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marco Campisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pieter J. Schol
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Charles H. Yoon
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael P. Manos
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David A. Barbie
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - F. Stephen Hodi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Melanoma Disease Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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22
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Ghorani E, Swanton C, Quezada SA. Cancer cell-intrinsic mechanisms driving acquired immune tolerance. Immunity 2023; 56:2270-2295. [PMID: 37820584 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Immune evasion is a hallmark of cancer, enabling tumors to survive contact with the host immune system and evade the cycle of immune recognition and destruction. Here, we review the current understanding of the cancer cell-intrinsic factors driving immune evasion. We focus on T cells as key effectors of anti-cancer immunity and argue that cancer cells evade immune destruction by gaining control over pathways that usually serve to maintain physiological tolerance to self. Using this framework, we place recent mechanistic advances in the understanding of cancer immune evasion into broad categories of control over T cell localization, antigen recognition, and acquisition of optimal effector function. We discuss the redundancy in the pathways involved and identify knowledge gaps that must be overcome to better target immune evasion, including the need for better, routinely available tools that incorporate the growing understanding of evasion mechanisms to stratify patients for therapy and trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Ghorani
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Unit, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK; Department of Medical Oncology, Imperial College London Hospitals, London, UK.
| | - Charles Swanton
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK; Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Sergio A Quezada
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK; Cancer Immunology Unit, Research Department of Hematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK.
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23
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Gao R, Zheng X, Jiang A, He W, Liu T. Modulating β-catenin/BCL9 interaction with cell-membrane-camouflaged carnosic acid to inhibit Wnt pathway and enhance tumor immune response. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1274223. [PMID: 37881428 PMCID: PMC10594212 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1274223] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) therapies are plagued by insufficient immune infiltration and suboptimal immune responses in patients, which are closely associated with the hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Suppressing this signaling holds considerable promise as a potential tumor therapy for LUAD, but Wnt suppressor development is hindered by concerns regarding toxicity and adverse effects due to insufficient targeting of tumors. Methods We have synthesized a tumor-specific biomimetic Wnt pathway suppressor, namely CM-CA, by encapsulating carnosic acid within Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cell membranes. It possesses nano-size, allowing for a straightforward preparation process, and exhibits the ability to selectively target the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in lung adenocarcinoma cells. To evaluate its in vivo efficacy, we utilized the LLC Lewis homograft model, and further validated its mechanism of action through immunohistochemistry staining and transcriptome sequencing analyses. Results The findings from the animal experiments demonstrated that CM-CA effectively suppressed the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and impeded cellular proliferation, leading to notable tumor growth inhibition in a biologically benign manner. Transcriptome sequencing analyses revealed that CM-CA promoted T cell infiltration and bolstered the immune response within tumor tissues. Conclusion The utilization of CM-CA presents a novel and auspicious approach to achieve tumor suppression and augment the therapeutic response rate in LUAD, while also offering a strategy for the development of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors with biosafety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqing Gao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zheng
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Aimin Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wangxiao He
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tianya Liu
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
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24
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Lequerica-Fernández P, Rodríguez-Santamarta T, García-García E, Blanco-Lorenzo V, Torres-Rivas HE, Rodrigo JP, Suárez-Sánchez FJ, García-Pedrero JM, De Vicente JC. Prognostic Significance of β-Catenin in Relation to the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Oral Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2675. [PMID: 37893049 PMCID: PMC10603998 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic relevance of β-catenin expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to explore relationships with the tumor immune microenvironment. Expression of β-catenin and PD-L1, as well as lymphocyte and macrophage densities, were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 125 OSCC patient specimens. Membranous β-catenin expression was detected in 102 (81.6%) and nuclear β-catenin in 2 (1.6%) tumors. There was an association between β-catenin expression, tumoral, and stromal CD8+ T-cell infiltration (TIL) and also the type of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Tumors harboring nuclear β-catenin were associated with a type II TIME (i.e., immune ignorance defined by a negative PD-L1 expression and low CD8+ TIL density), whereas tumors with membranous β-catenin expression were predominantly type IV (i.e., immune tolerance defined by negative PD-L1 and high CD8+ TIL density). Combined, but not individual, high stromal CD8+ TILs and membranous β-catenin expression was independently associated with better disease-specific survival (HR = 0.48, p = 0.019). Taken together, a combination of high stromal CD8+ T-cell infiltration and membranous β-catenin in the tumor emerges as an independent predictor of better survival in OSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Lequerica-Fernández
- Department of Biochemistry, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (T.R.-S.); (J.P.R.)
| | - Tania Rodríguez-Santamarta
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (T.R.-S.); (J.P.R.)
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain;
| | - Eduardo García-García
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain;
| | - Verónica Blanco-Lorenzo
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (V.B.-L.); (H.E.T.-R.)
| | - Héctor E. Torres-Rivas
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (V.B.-L.); (H.E.T.-R.)
| | - Juan P. Rodrigo
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (T.R.-S.); (J.P.R.)
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Surgery, University of Oviedo, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Juana M. García-Pedrero
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (T.R.-S.); (J.P.R.)
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos De Vicente
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain; (T.R.-S.); (J.P.R.)
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Carretera de Rubín, 33011 Oviedo, Spain;
- Department of Surgery, University of Oviedo, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
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25
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Martens P, Cooper LT, Tang WHW. Diagnostic Approach for Suspected Acute Myocarditis: Considerations for Standardization and Broadening Clinical Spectrum. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e031454. [PMID: 37589159 PMCID: PMC10547314 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031454] [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] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Myocarditis is most recognized in patients with moderate to severe, recent-onset heart failure. However, less typical presentations including myocardial infarction with normal coronary arteries and arrhythmias are important manifestations but less commonly recognized to be caused by myocarditis. Most cases of myocarditis can be self-limiting without specific treatment; however, appropriate identification of risk during the diagnostic process of myocarditis and once a diagnosis is established is of primordial importance to identify patients in need for more specific follow-up and management. We propose a flexible, multitiered approach to the diagnostic process, allowing for capturing of the spectrum of myocarditis at an early time-point, individualized use of diagnostic resources through disease severity phenotyping, and providing structured follow-up care once myocarditis is confirmed. Such diagnostic processes allow for identification of specific etiologies with potential therapeutic consequences or allows for the comprehension of disease chronicity by understanding genetic contributions or elements of persistent immune dysregulation and degree of cardiac damage. The article highlights the evolving field of immunophenotyping in myocarditis, generating a potential for the development of targeted therapeutic approaches. Currently long-term follow-up should be titrated to the refined risk assessments of patients with a diagnosis of myocarditis and includes arrhythmia monitoring and imaging when the results will likely impact management. Genetic testing should be considered in selected cases, and histologic diagnosis may be considered in nonresponders even at later stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Martens
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineHeart Vascular and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland ClinicClevelandOHUSA
| | - Leslie T. Cooper
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineMayo ClinicJacksonvilleFLUSA
| | - W. H. Wilson Tang
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineHeart Vascular and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland ClinicClevelandOHUSA
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26
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Yang J, Bae H. Drug conjugates for targeting regulatory T cells in the tumor microenvironment: guided missiles for cancer treatment. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1996-2004. [PMID: 37653036 PMCID: PMC10545761 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01080-3] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a key role in suppressing anticancer immune responses; therefore, various strategies targeting Tregs are becoming important for tumor therapy. To prevent the side effects of nonspecific Treg depletion, such as immunotherapy-related adverse events (irAEs), therapeutic strategies that specifically target Tregs in the TME are being investigated. Tumor-targeting drug conjugates are efficient drugs in which a cytotoxic payload is assembled into a carrier that binds Tregs via a linker. By allowing the drug to act selectively on target cells, this approach has the advantage of increasing the therapeutic effect and minimizing the side effects of immunotherapy. Antibody-drug conjugates, immunotoxins, peptide-drug conjugates, and small interfering RNA conjugates are being developed as Treg-targeting drug conjugates. In this review, we discuss key themes and recent advances in drug conjugates targeting Tregs in the TME, as well as future design strategies for successful use of drug conjugates for Treg targeting in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juwon Yang
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunsu Bae
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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27
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Shakhpazyan N, Mikhaleva L, Bedzhanyan A, Gioeva Z, Sadykhov N, Mikhalev A, Atiakshin D, Buchwalow I, Tiemann M, Orekhov A. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of the Tumor Stroma in Colorectal Cancer: Insights into Disease Progression and Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2361. [PMID: 37760801 PMCID: PMC10525158 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092361] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health burden worldwide and is the third most common type of cancer. The early detection and diagnosis of CRC is critical to improve patient outcomes. This review explores the intricate interplay between the tumor microenvironment, stromal interactions, and the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer. The review begins by assessing the gut microbiome's influence on CRC development, emphasizing its association with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). The role of the Wnt signaling pathway in CRC tumor stroma is scrutinized, elucidating its impact on disease progression. Tumor budding, its effect on tumor stroma, and the implications for patient prognosis are investigated. The review also identifies conserved oncogenic signatures (COS) within CRC stroma and explores their potential as therapeutic targets. Lastly, the seed and soil hypothesis is employed to contextualize metastasis, accentuating the significance of both tumor cells and the surrounding stroma in metastatic propensity. This review highlights the intricate interdependence between CRC cells and their microenvironment, providing valuable insights into prospective therapeutic approaches targeting tumor-stroma interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Shakhpazyan
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Liudmila Mikhaleva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Arkady Bedzhanyan
- Department of Abdominal Surgery and Oncology II (Coloproctology and Uro-Gynecology), Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Zarina Gioeva
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Nikolay Sadykhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
| | - Alexander Mikhalev
- Department of Hospital Surgery No. 2, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Dmitri Atiakshin
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Research Institute of Experimental Biology and Medicine, Burdenko Voronezh State Medical University, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Igor Buchwalow
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Institute for Hematopathology, 22547 Hamburg, Germany;
| | | | - Alexander Orekhov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119435 Moscow, Russia; (N.S.); (L.M.); (Z.G.); (N.S.); (A.O.)
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
- Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, 121096 Moscow, Russia
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28
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Yu R, Yuan Y, Liu Z, Liu L, Xu Z, Zhao Y, Jia C, Zhang P, Li H, Liu Y, Wang Y, Li W, Nie L, Sun X, Li Y, Liu B, Liu H. Selenomethionine against titanium particle-induced osteolysis by regulating the ROS-dependent NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1171150. [PMID: 37545495 PMCID: PMC10397397 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1171150] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Wear debris-induced osteolysis, especially titanium (Ti) particles-induced osteolysis, is the most common cause of arthroplasty failure with no effective therapy. Previous studies have suggested that inflammation and impaired osteogenesis are associated with Ti particles -induced osteolysis. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element in the human body, which forms selenomethionine (Se-Met) in nature, and selenoproteins has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant stress effects. In this study, the effects of Se-Met on Ti particles-induced osteolysis were observed and the potential mechanism was explored. We found that exogenous Se-Met relieved osteolysis induced by Ti particles in two animal models and MC3T3-E1 cells. We found that the addition of Se-Met effectively inhibited Ti particle-induced inflammation by regulating reactive oxygen species-dependent (ROS-dependent) NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. These therapeutic effects were abrogated in MC3T3-E1 cells that had received a β-catenin antagonist, suggesting that Se-Met alleviates inflammatory osteolysis via the β-catenin signaling pathway. Collectively, these findings indicated that Se-Met may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for treating Ti particle-induced osteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixuan Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yongjian Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- The First Clinical Medical School, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Long Liu
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoning Xu
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yunpeng Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunwang Jia
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hang Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhao Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Emergency Medicine Center, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lin Nie
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xuecheng Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Trauma, Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ben Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Haichun Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Bai M, Liu X. Diagnostic biomarker KIF23 is associated with immune infiltration and immunotherapy response in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1191009. [PMID: 37483517 PMCID: PMC10361780 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1191009] [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: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinesin family member 23 (KIF23), an index of tumor proliferation, can serve as a prognostic marker in numerous tumors. However, the relationship between KIF23 expression and diagnostic value, immune infiltration, and immunotherapy response remains unclear in gastric cancer(GC). We primarily demonstrated that GC tissue had higher levels of KIF23 expression than the adjacent normal tissue on mRNA and protein levels. The ROC analysis revealed KIF23 had an outstanding diagnostic value of GC in the training and validation set (AUC = 0.958, and AUC = 0.86793, respectively). We discovered that KIF23 was positively associated with age, histological type, and H. pylori infection of GC. Subsequently, the KIF23 expression level was correlated with the gene mutation, function enrichment, immune cell infiltration, and immune cell marker of GC based on multiple online websites and R software. KIF23 expression was related to the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, CD4+T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells in GC. Especially, KIF23 expression was positively significantly associated with the Th1 cell marker STAT1 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1). Patients with high KIF23 expression exhibited greater immune cell infiltrates, including T cell CD4+ memory helper, Treg, and M1 cells, which indicated that high KIF23 expression is more conducive to immunosuppression. Finally, KIF23 expression had a positive relationship with TMB and MSI, and affected the immune microenvironment in GC tissues by increased expression of ICPs such as CD274(PD-L1), CTLA4, HAVCR2, and LAG3. Our study uncovered that KIF23 can serve as an immune-related biomarker for diagnosis and immunotherapy response of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoshu Bai
- Department of Oncology, Dazhou Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital, Dazhou Second People’s Hospital, Dazhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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30
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Păvăleanu I, Balan RA, Grigoraş A, Balan TA, Amălinei C. The significance of immune microenvironment in patients with endometriosis. ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF MORPHOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY = REVUE ROUMAINE DE MORPHOLOGIE ET EMBRYOLOGIE 2023; 64:343-354. [PMID: 37867352 PMCID: PMC10720939 DOI: 10.47162/rjme.64.3.06] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis represents an estrogen-dependent disease of the female reproductive system and intra- and extraperitoneal regions, with chronic feature. Currently, immune cells, such as macrophages and lymphocytes, are considered to play a pivotal role in angiogenesis and invasion of endometriotic cells through matrix remodeling. Additionally, various studies have revealed the role of E-cadherin, β-catenin, along with steroid hormone receptors in endometriosis development. In this context, our study aimed to analyze the relationship between the cellular immune profile and E-cadherin, β-catenin, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and progesterone receptor (PR) immunoexpression in endometriosis tissues, along with an analysis of the possible association between serological parameters and immunohistochemical (IHC) markers. The study included 53 patients diagnosed with ovarian or cutaneous abdominal wall endometriosis, which have been investigated by routine histology, immunohistochemistry, and serum analysis. The IHC exam showed an increased density of cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T-cells, CD8+ T-cells, and CD68+ macrophages, along with variable increased expressions of E-cadherin, β-catenin, ERα, and PR. Statistical analysis revealed an intense positive correlation between CD68 and PR expression (p<0.05), without any other statistically significant correlations between IHC markers or between IHC and serological markers. Our study supports that endometriosis is an immune-dependent disease characterized by an abnormal morphological profile of T-cells and macrophages in endometriotic implants. Our study provides additional data useful in the understanding the immune milieu of endometriosis in the context of its complex pathogenic molecular mechanism. Further research is needed to develop new immunological therapeutic approaches, like immune checkpoint inhibitors administration or T-cell-targeted immunotherapy in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Păvăleanu
- Department of Mother and Child Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Raluca Anca Balan
- Department of Morphofunctional Sciences I, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Adriana Grigoraş
- Department of Morphofunctional Sciences I, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, Romania
- Department of Histopathology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Teodora Ana Balan
- Department of Morphofunctional Sciences I, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Cornelia Amălinei
- Department of Morphofunctional Sciences I, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, Romania
- Department of Histopathology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Iaşi, Romania
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31
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Alaouna M, Penny C, Hull R, Molefi T, Chauke-Malinga N, Khanyile R, Makgoka M, Bida M, Dlamini Z. Overcoming the Challenges of Phytochemicals in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Therapy: The Path Forward. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2350. [PMID: 37375975 DOI: 10.3390/plants12122350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a very aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptor expression. TNBC is thought to be produced by Wnt, Notch, TGF-beta, and VEGF pathway activation, which leads to cell invasion and metastasis. To address this, the use of phytochemicals as a therapeutic option for TNBC has been researched. Plants contain natural compounds known as phytochemicals. Curcumin, resveratrol, and EGCG are phytochemicals that have been found to inhibit the pathways that cause TNBC, but their limited bioavailability and lack of clinical evidence for their use as single therapies pose challenges to the use of these phytochemical therapies. More research is required to better understand the role of phytochemicals in TNBC therapy, or to advance the development of more effective delivery mechanisms for these phytochemicals to the site where they are required. This review will discuss the promise shown by phytochemicals as a treatment option for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alaouna
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown 2193, South Africa
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown 2193, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Thulo Molefi
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Nkhensani Chauke-Malinga
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Richard Khanyile
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Malose Makgoka
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Meshack Bida
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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32
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Satapathy SR, Ghatak S, Sjölander A. The tumor promoter cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 regulates PD-L1 expression in colon cancer cells via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:138. [PMID: 37316937 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01157-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy targeting programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) or PD-1 in solid tumors has been shown to be clinically beneficial. However, in colorectal cancer (CRC), only a subset of patients benefit from PD-1/PD-L1 treatment. Previously, we showed that high cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (CysLT1R) levels are associated with poor prognosis in CRC patients. Recently, we have revealed the role of the tumor promoter CysLT1R in drug resistance and stemness in colon cancer (CC) cells. Here, we show the role of the CysLT1R/Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis in the regulation of PD-L1 using both in vitro and in vivo preclinical model systems. Interestingly, we found that both endogenous and IFNγ-induced PD-L1 expression in CC cells is mediated through upregulation of CysLT1R, which enhances Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Therapeutic targeting of CysLT1R with its antagonist montelukast (Mo), as well as CRISPR/Cas9-mediated or doxycycline-inducible functional absence of CysLT1R, negatively regulated PD-L1 expression in CC cells. Interestingly, an anti-PD-L1 neutralizing antibody exhibited stronger effects together with the CysLT1R antagonist in cells (Apcmut or CTNNB1mut) with either endogenous or IFNγ-induced PD-L1 expression. Additionally, mice treated with Mo showed depletion of PD-L1 mRNA and protein. Moreover, in CC cells with combined treatment of a Wnt inhibitor and an anti-PD-L1 antibody was effective only in β-catenin-dependent (APCmut) context. Finally, analysis of public dataset showed positive correlations between the PD-L1 and CysLT1R mRNA levels. These results elucidate a previously underappreciated CysLT1R/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the context of PD-L1 inhibition in CC, which might be considered for improving the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 therapy in CC patients. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakti Ranjan Satapathy
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Jan Waldenströms Gata 35, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Souvik Ghatak
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Jan Waldenströms Gata 35, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anita Sjölander
- Cell and Experimental Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Jan Waldenströms Gata 35, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden.
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Moezzi SMI, Javadi P, Mozafari N, Ashrafi H, Azadi A. Metformin-loaded nanoerythrosomes: An erythrocyte-based drug delivery system as a therapeutic tool for glioma. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17082. [PMID: 37484272 PMCID: PMC10361227 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioma is an intra-cranial malignancy with the origin of neural stem cells or precursor cells, the most prevalent brain tumor worldwide. Glioblastoma, the fourth-grade glioma, is a common brain tumor whose incidence rate is 5-7 people per 100,000 populations annually. Despite their high mortality rate, all efforts for treatment have yet to achieve any desirable clinical outcome. The Wnt signaling pathway is a conserved pathway among species that seems to be a candidate for cancer therapy by its inhibition. Metformin is a known inhibitor of the Wnt signaling pathway. Its effects on glioma treatment have been observed in cellular, animal, and clinical experiments. Nanoerythrosomes are drug carriers obtained from the cellular membrane of red blood cells in nano size which can offer several characteristics to deliver metformin to brain tumors. They are good at loading and carrying hydrophilic drugs, they can protect metformin from its metabolizing enzymes, which are present in the blood-brain barrier, and they can extend the period of metformin presence in circulation. In this study, nanoerythrosomes were prepared by using the hypotonic buffer. They had particle sizes in the range of 97.1 ± 34.2 nm, and their loading efficiency and loading capacity were 72.6% and 1.66%, respectively. Nanoerythrosomes could reserve metformin in their structure for a long time, and only 50% of metformin was released after 30 h. Moreover, they released metformin at a low and approximately constant rate. Besides, nanoerythrosomes could tolerate various kinds of stress and maintain most of the drug in their structure. Altogether, nanoerythrosome can be a suitable drug delivery system to deliver therapeutic amounts of metformin to various tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Iman Moezzi
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Parisa Javadi
- Department of Nanomedicine, School of Novel Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negin Mozafari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hajar Ashrafi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Azadi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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zhao T, Wang L, Zhang Y, Ye W, Liu J, Wu H, Wang F, Tang T, Li Z. Qi-Dong-Huo-Xue-Yin balances the immune microenvironment to protect against LPS induced acute lung injury. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1200058. [PMID: 37292149 PMCID: PMC10244563 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1200058] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 induces acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and leads to severe immunological changes that threatens the lives of COVID-19 victims. Studies have shown that both the regulatory T cells and macrophages were deranged in COVID-19-induced ALI. Herbal drugs have long been utilized to adjust the immune microenvironment in ALI. However, the underlying mechanisms of herbal drug mediated ALI protection are largely unknown. This study aims to understand the cellular mechanism of a traditional Chinese medicine, Qi-Dong-Huo-Xue-Yin (QD), in protecting against LPS induced acute lung injury in mouse models. Our data showed that QD intrinsically promotes Foxp3 transcription via promoting acetylation of the Foxp3 promoter in CD4+ T cells and consequently facilitates CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs development. Extrinsically, QD stabilized β-catenin in macrophages to expedite CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs development and modulated peripheral blood cytokines. Taken together, our results illustrate that QD promotes CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs development via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways and balanced cytokines within the lungs to protect against LPS induced ALI. This study suggests a potential application of QD in ALI related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Le Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College Affiliated to Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wu Ye
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiyan Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingyu Tang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhijun Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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35
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Mutascio S, Mota T, Franchitti L, Sharma AA, Willemse A, Bergstresser SN, Wang H, Statzu M, Tharp GK, Weiler J, Sékaly RP, Bosinger SE, Paiardini M, Silvestri G, Jones RB, Kulpa DA. CD8 + T cells promote HIV latency by remodeling CD4 + T cell metabolism to enhance their survival, quiescence, and stemness. Immunity 2023; 56:1132-1147.e6. [PMID: 37030290 PMCID: PMC10880039 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
HIV infection persists during antiretroviral therapy (ART) due to a reservoir of latently infected cells that harbor replication-competent virus and evade immunity. Previous ex vivo studies suggested that CD8+ T cells from people with HIV may suppress HIV expression via non-cytolytic mechanisms, but the mechanisms responsible for this effect remain unclear. Here, we used a primary cell-based in vitro latency model and demonstrated that co-culture of autologous activated CD8+ T cells with HIV-infected memory CD4+ T cells promoted specific changes in metabolic and/or signaling pathways resulting in increased CD4+ T cell survival, quiescence, and stemness. Collectively, these pathways negatively regulated HIV expression and ultimately promoted the establishment of latency. As shown previously, we observed that macrophages, but not B cells, promoted latency in CD4+ T cells. The identification of CD8-specific mechanisms of pro-latency activity may favor the development of approaches to eliminate the viral reservoir in people with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Mutascio
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Talia Mota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lavinia Franchitti
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Ashish A Sharma
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Abigail Willemse
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | | | - Hong Wang
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Maura Statzu
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Gregory K Tharp
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Jared Weiler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Rafick-Pierre Sékaly
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Steven E Bosinger
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Mirko Paiardini
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Guido Silvestri
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - R Brad Jones
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Deanna A Kulpa
- Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Pabst L, Lopes S, Bertrand B, Creusot Q, Kotovskaya M, Pencreach E, Beau-Faller M, Mascaux C. Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers in the Era of Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087577. [PMID: 37108738 PMCID: PMC10145126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087577] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic algorithm of lung cancer has recently been revolutionized by the emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, an objective and durable response rate remains low with those recent therapies and some patients even experience severe adverse events. Prognostic and predictive biomarkers are therefore needed in order to select patients who will respond. Nowadays, the only validated biomarker is the PD-L1 expression, but its predictive value remains imperfect, and it does not offer any certainty of a sustained response to treatment. With recent progresses in molecular biology, genome sequencing techniques, and the understanding of the immune microenvironment of the tumor and its host, new molecular features have been highlighted. There are evidence in favor of the positive predictive value of the tumor mutational burden, as an example. From the expression of molecular interactions within tumor cells to biomarkers circulating in peripheral blood, many markers have been identified as associated with the response to immunotherapy. In this review, we would like to summarize the latest knowledge about predictive and prognostic biomarkers of immune checkpoint inhibitors efficacy in order to go further in the field of precision immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Pabst
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Sébastien Lopes
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Basil Bertrand
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Quentin Creusot
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Maria Kotovskaya
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Erwan Pencreach
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Michèle Beau-Faller
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Céline Mascaux
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy against Cancer), Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, Université de Strasbourg, ITI InnoVec, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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37
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Peng JJ, Wang L, Li Z, Ku CL, Ho PC. Metabolic challenges and interventions in CAR T cell therapy. Sci Immunol 2023; 8:eabq3016. [PMID: 37058548 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abq3016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have achieved true clinical success in treating hematological malignancy patients, laying the foundation of CAR T cells as a new pillar of cancer therapy. Although these promising effects have generated strong interest in expanding the treatment of CAR T cells to solid tumors, reproducible demonstration of clinical efficacy in the setting of solid tumors has remained challenging to date. Here, we review how metabolic stress and signaling in the tumor microenvironment, including intrinsic determinants of response to CAR T cell therapy and extrinsic obstacles, restrict the efficacy of CAR T cell therapy in cancer treatment. In addition, we discuss the use of novel approaches to target and rewire metabolic programming for CAR T cell manufacturing. Last, we summarize strategies that aim to improve the metabolic adaptability of CAR T cells to enhance their potency in mounting antitumor responses and survival within the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhan-Jie Peng
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Limei Wang
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Lung Ku
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chih Ho
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
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38
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Wang B, Zhang J, Zhang D, Lu C, Liu H, Gao Q, Niu T, Yin M, Cui S. Casein Kinase 1α as a Novel Factor Affects Thyrotropin Synthesis via PKC/ERK/CREB Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7034. [PMID: 37108197 PMCID: PMC10138882 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087034] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Casein kinase 1α (CK1α) is present in multiple cellular organelles and plays various roles in regulating neuroendocrine metabolism. Herein, we investigated the underlying function and mechanisms of CK1α-regulated thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)) synthesis in a murine model. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect CK1α expression in murine pituitary tissue and its localization to specific cell types. Tshb mRNA expression in anterior pituitary was detected using real-time and radioimmunoassay techniques after CK1α activity was promoted and inhibited in vivo and in vitro. Relationships among TRH/L-T4, CK1α, and TSH were analyzed with TRH and L-T4 treatment, as well as thyroidectomy, in vivo. In mice, CK1α was expressed at higher levels in the pituitary gland tissue than in the thyroid, adrenal gland, or liver. However, inhibiting endogenous CK1α activity in the anterior pituitary and primary pituitary cells significantly increased TSH expression and attenuated the inhibitory effect of L-T4 on TSH. In contrast, CK1α activation weakened TSH stimulation by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) by suppressing protein kinase C (PKC)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/cAMP response element binding (CREB) signaling. CK1α, as a negative regulator, mediates TRH and L-T4 upstream signaling by targeting PKC, thus affecting TSH expression and downregulating ERK1/2 phosphorylation and CREB transcriptional activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
| | - Jinglin Zhang
- Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
- Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Chenyang Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
| | - Hui Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
| | - Qiao Gao
- Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Tongjuan Niu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
| | - Mengqing Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
| | - Sheng Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (B.W.)
- Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
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39
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Vitale C, Bottino C, Castriconi R. Monocyte and Macrophage in Neuroblastoma: Blocking Their Pro-Tumoral Functions and Strengthening Their Crosstalk with Natural Killer Cells. Cells 2023; 12:885. [PMID: 36980226 PMCID: PMC10047506 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, immunotherapy has represented an enormous step forward in the fight against cancer. Immunotherapeutic approaches have increasingly become a fundamental part of the combined therapies currently adopted in the treatment of patients with high-risk (HR) neuroblastoma (NB). An increasing number of studies focus on the understanding of the immune landscape in NB and, since this tumor expresses low or null levels of MHC class I, on the development of new strategies aimed at enhancing innate immunity, especially Natural Killer (NK) cells and macrophages. There is growing evidence that, within the NB tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which mainly present an M2-like phenotype, have a crucial role in mediating NB development and immune evasion, and they have been correlated to poor clinical outcomes. Importantly, TAM can also impair the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) mediated by NK cells upon the administration of anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), the current standard immunotherapy for HR-NB patients. This review deals with the main mechanisms regulating the crosstalk among NB cells and TAMs or other cellular components of the TME, which support tumor development and induce drug resistance. Furthermore, we will address the most recent strategies aimed at limiting the number of pro-tumoral macrophages within the TME, reprogramming the TAMs functional state, thus enhancing NK cell functions. We also prospectively discuss new or unexplored aspects of human macrophage heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Vitale
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Cristina Bottino
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Roberta Castriconi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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40
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Köse TB, Li J, Ritz A. Growing Directed Acyclic Graphs: Optimization Functions for Pathway Reconstruction Algorithms. J Comput Biol 2023. [PMID: 36862510 DOI: 10.1089/cmb.2022.0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in molecular systems biology is to understand how proteins work to transmit external signals to changes in gene expression. Computationally reconstructing these signaling pathways from protein interaction networks can help understand what is missing from existing pathway databases. We formulate a new pathway reconstruction problem, one that iteratively grows directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) from a set of starting proteins in a protein interaction network. We present an algorithm that provably returns the optimal DAGs for two different cost functions and evaluate the pathway reconstructions when applied to six diverse signaling pathways from the NetPath database. The optimal DAGs outperform an existing k-shortest paths method for pathway reconstruction, and the new reconstructions are enriched for different biological processes. Growing DAGs is a promising step toward reconstructing pathways that provably optimize a specific cost function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tunç Başar Köse
- Department of Computer Science and Reed College, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jiarong Li
- Department of Computer Science and Reed College, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Anna Ritz
- Department of Biology, Reed College, Portland, Oregon, USA
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41
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Barrionuevo E, Cornier PG, Delpiccolo CML, Mata EG, Roguin LP, Blank VC. Antiangiogenic activity of the penicillin derivative TAP7f in melanoma. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:249-263. [PMID: 36688961 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02287-7] [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: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Previously , we demonstrated that the non-antibiotic penicillin derivative TAP7f inhibited melanoma metastasis in vitro and in vivo through the downregulation of β-catenin and integrin αVβ3. As angiogenesis is required for tumor growth and metastasis, we decided to explore the possible antiangiogenic effect of TAP7f. We found that TAP7f inhibited proliferation, migration, tube formation, and actin cytoskeleton organization of human endothelial cells. In a gel plug assay, an in vivo model for angiogenesis, TAP7f also blocked vascular formation induced by fibroblast growth factor 2. Furthermore, when murine B16-F10 melanoma cells pre-treated with TAP7f were injected intradermally in mice, we observed a decrease in the number and thickness of the capillaries surrounding the tumor. Additionally, TAP7f downregulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B) expression in B16-F10 cells and VEGF receptor expression in HMEC-1 endothelial cells. When the antitumor effect of TAP7f was studied in C57BL/6 J mice challenged with B16-F10 melanoma cells, a significant reduction of tumor growth was observed. Furthermore, a decreased expression of VEGF, PDGF-B, and the endothelial cell marker CD34 was observed in tumors from TAP7f-treated mice. Together, our results suggest that the antiangiogenic activity of TAP7f contributes to its antitumor and antimetastatic action and positions this penicillin derivative as an alternative or complementary agent for the treatment of melanoma. KEY MESSAGES: • TAP7f inhibits proliferation, migration, tube formation, and actin cytoskeleton organization of endothelial cells. • TAP7f downregulates VEGF receptor expression in endothelial cells. • TAP7f downregulates VEGF and PDGF expression in melanoma cells. • TAP7f inhibits angiogenesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barrionuevo
- Laboratorio de Oncología y Transducción de Señales, Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (IQUIFIB), Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia G Cornier
- Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Instituto de Química Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Carina M L Delpiccolo
- Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Instituto de Química Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Ernesto G Mata
- Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Instituto de Química Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Leonor P Roguin
- Laboratorio de Oncología y Transducción de Señales, Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (IQUIFIB), Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Viviana C Blank
- Laboratorio de Oncología y Transducción de Señales, Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (IQUIFIB), Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- , Buenos Aires, 956, C1113AAD, Argentina.
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42
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Zheng S, Liu T, Li L, Liu Q, Huang C, Liang Y, Tan Y, Zhang L, Lu X. SLC1A5, unrelated to prognosis, was associated with CD8 + T-cell exclusion in the tumor microenvironment of squamous cell carcinoma. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14571. [PMID: 36950604 PMCID: PMC10025928 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
SLC1A5, short for solute carrier family 1 member 5, is a neutral amino acid transporter whose expression has been reported to be upregulated in various cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Despite this, little has been described regarding the immunological involvement of SLC1A5 expression in the tumor microenvironment of ESCC. Given this, we adopted in silico analyses together with a wet lab strategy to investigate the prognostic and clinicopathological meaning of SLC1A5 expression in ESCC. In silico analyses of SLC1A5 expression data available from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database revealed that SLC1A5 expression was unrelated to the prognosis of ESCC, which holds true when extended to other types of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Further analyses revealed that SLC1A5 expression correlated markedly with the infiltration density of effector CD8+ T cells in ESCC, and the same was true for HNSC and LUSC when extrapolated. As experimental confirmation, multiplexed immunofluorescent staining was undertaken to verify the correlation between SLC1A5 expression and infiltration of CD8+ T cells in a tissue microarray prepared from ESCC and matched normal control tissues. Our data confirmed that SLC1A5 expression was not associated with prognosis but was associated with the exclusion of CD8+ T cells. Taken together, all the data we curated strongly support the notion that SLC1A5 expression is associated with CD8+ T-cell exclusion in the tumor microenvironment of SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shutao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Conggai Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pathology, Basic Medicine College, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China
| | - Yiyi Tan
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- VIP Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Xiaomei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- Clinical Medical Research Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China
- Corresponding author. State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, PR China.
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43
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Leveraging Tumor Microenvironment Infiltration in Pancreatic Cancer to Identify Gene Signatures Related to Prognosis and Immunotherapy Response. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051442. [PMID: 36900234 PMCID: PMC10000708 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051442] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an exuberant tumor microenvironment (TME) comprised of diverse cell types that play key roles in carcinogenesis, chemo-resistance, and immune evasion. Here, we propose a gene signature score through the characterization of cell components in TME for promoting personalized treatments and further identifying effective therapeutic targets. We identified three TME subtypes based on cell components quantified by single sample gene set enrichment analysis. A prognostic risk score model (TMEscore) was established based on TME-associated genes using a random forest algorithm and unsupervised clustering, followed by validation in immunotherapy cohorts from the GEO dataset for its performance in predicting prognosis. Importantly, TMEscore positively correlated with the expression of immunosuppressive checkpoints and negatively with the gene signature of T cells' responses to IL2, IL15, and IL21. Subsequently, we further screened and verified F2R-like Trypsin Receptor1 (F2RL1) among the core genes related to TME, which promoted the malignant progression of PDAC and has been confirmed as a good biomarker with therapeutic potential in vitro and in vivo experiments. Taken together, we proposed a novel TMEscore for risk stratification and selection of PDAC patients in immunotherapy trials and validated effective pharmacological targets.
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44
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Zhang H, Liu C, Chen Q, Shen LA, Xiao W, Li J, Wang Y, Zhu D, Zhang Q, Li J. Discovery of Novel 3-Phenylpiperidine Derivatives Targeting the β-Catenin/B-Cell Lymphoma 9 Interaction as a Single Agent and in Combination with the Anti-PD-1 Antibody for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1349-1379. [PMID: 36630177 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Direct disruption of the β-catenin/B-cell lymphoma 9 (BCL9) protein-protein interaction (PPI) is a potential strategy for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment through inhibiting oncogenic Wnt activity. Herein, a series of 3-phenylpiperidine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as β-catenin/BCL9 PPI inhibitors. Among them, compound 41 showed the best IC50 (0.72 μM) in a competitive fluorescence polarization assay and a KD value of 0.26 μM for the β-catenin protein. This compound selectively inhibited the growth of CRC cells, suppressed Wnt signaling transactivation, and downregulated oncogenic Wnt target gene expression. In vivo, 41 showed potent anti-CRC activity and promoted the infiltration and function of cytotoxic T lymphocytes while decreasing the infiltration of regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Furthermore, the combination of 41 and the anti-PD-1 antibody (Ab) efficiently enhanced anti-CRC efficacy, first verifying the in vivo efficacy of the small-molecule β-catenin/BCL9 PPI inhibitor and anti-PD-1 Ab in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qiushi Chen
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Road, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Li-An Shen
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wenting Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Road, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Di Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, 138 Yixue Yuan Road, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Qingwei Zhang
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianqi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
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45
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Maali A, Gholizadeh M, Feghhi-Najafabadi S, Noei A, Seyed-Motahari SS, Mansoori S, Sharifzadeh Z. Nanobodies in cell-mediated immunotherapy: On the road to fight cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1012841. [PMID: 36761751 PMCID: PMC9905824 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1012841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system is essential in recognizing and eliminating tumor cells. The unique characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as heterogeneity, reduced blood flow, hypoxia, and acidity, can reduce the efficacy of cell-mediated immunity. The primary goal of cancer immunotherapy is to modify the immune cells or the TME to enable the immune system to eliminate malignancies successfully. Nanobodies, known as single-domain antibodies, are light chain-free antibody fragments produced from Camelidae antibodies. The unique properties of nanobodies, including high stability, reduced immunogenicity, enhanced infiltration into the TME of solid tumors and facile genetic engineering have led to their promising application in cell-mediated immunotherapy. They can promote the cancer therapy either directly by bridging between tumor cells and immune cells and by targeting cancer cells using immune cell-bound nanobodies or indirectly by blocking the inhibitory ligands/receptors. The T-cell activation can be engaged through anti-CD3 and anti-4-1BB nanobodies in the bispecific (bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs)) and trispecific (trispecific T-cell engager (TriTEs)) manners. Also, nanobodies can be used as natural killer (NK) cell engagers (BiKEs, TriKEs, and TetraKEs) to create an immune synapse between the tumor and NK cells. Nanobodies can redirect immune cells to attack tumor cells through a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) incorporating a nanobody against the target antigen. Various cancer antigens have been targeted by nanobody-based CAR-T and CAR-NK cells for treating both hematological and solid malignancies. They can also cause the continuation of immune surveillance against tumor cells by stopping inappropriate inhibition of immune checkpoints. Other roles of nanobodies in cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy include reprogramming macrophages to reduce metastasis and angiogenesis, as well as preventing the severe side effects occurring in cell-mediated immunotherapy. Here, we highlight the critical functions of various immune cells, including T cells, NK cells, and macrophages in the TME, and discuss newly developed immunotherapy methods based on the targeted manipulation of immune cells and TME with nanobodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhosein Maali
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Monireh Gholizadeh
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Ahmad Noei
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Sheila Seyed-Motahari
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran,Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Sharifzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran,*Correspondence: Zahra Sharifzadeh,
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46
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Lim DM, Lee H, Eom K, Kim YH, Kim S. Bioinformatic analysis of the obesity paradox and possible associated factors in colorectal cancer using TCGA cohorts. J Cancer 2023; 14:322-335. [PMID: 36860923 PMCID: PMC9969588 DOI: 10.7150/jca.80977] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Obesity is an important determinant of CRC incidence; however, obese patients have also shown better long-term survival than non-obese patients, suggesting that the development and progression of CRC are associated with different mechanisms. This study compares the expression of genes, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and intestinal microbiota between high- and low-body mass index (BMI) patients at the time of CRC diagnosis. The results revealed that high-BMI patients with CRC have better prognosis, higher levels of resting CD4+ T cells, lower levels of T follicular helper cells, and different levels of intratumoral microbiota than low-BMI patients. Our study highlights that tumor-infiltrating immune cells and intratumoral microbe diversity are major features of the obesity paradox in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Min Lim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Genomic Data Science, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Hyunsu Lee
- Department of Medical Informatics, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Kisang Eom
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Hak Kim
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Korea.,✉ Corresponding authors: Shin Kim, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea. TEL: +82-53-258-7359; Fax: +82-53-258-7355; E-mail: ; Yun Hak Kim, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Korea. TEL: +82-51-510-8091; Fax: +82-51-510-8049; E-mail:
| | - Shin Kim
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Medical Science, Keimyung University, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea.,Institute for Cancer Research, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea.,✉ Corresponding authors: Shin Kim, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea. TEL: +82-53-258-7359; Fax: +82-53-258-7355; E-mail: ; Yun Hak Kim, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Korea. TEL: +82-51-510-8091; Fax: +82-51-510-8049; E-mail:
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47
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Di Bartolomeo L, Vaccaro F, Irrera N, Borgia F, Li Pomi F, Squadrito F, Vaccaro M. Wnt Signaling Pathways: From Inflammation to Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021575. [PMID: 36675086 PMCID: PMC9867176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021575] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways are involved in cell differentiation and homeostasis, but also in tumorigenesis. In fact, an exaggerated activation of Wnt signaling may promote tumor growth and invasion. We summarize the most intriguing evidence about the role of Wnt signaling in cutaneous carcinogenesis, in particular in the pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Wnt signaling is involved in several ways in the development of skin tumors: it may modulate the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, synergize with Sonic Hedgehog pathway in the onset of basal cell carcinoma, and contribute to the progression from precancerous to malignant lesions and promote the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in squamous cell carcinoma. Targeting Wnt pathways may represent an additional efficient approach in the management of patients with NMSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federico Vaccaro
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Borgia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Li Pomi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Mario Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Akter Z, Salamat N, Ali MY, Zhang L. The promise of targeting heme and mitochondrial respiration in normalizing tumor microenvironment and potentiating immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1072739. [PMID: 36686754 PMCID: PMC9851275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1072739] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy shows durable treatment responses and therapeutic benefits compared to other cancer treatment modalities, but many cancer patients display primary and acquired resistance to immunotherapeutics. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) is a major barrier to cancer immunotherapy. Notably, cancer cells depend on high mitochondrial bioenergetics accompanied with the supply of heme for their growth, proliferation, progression, and metastasis. This excessive mitochondrial respiration increases tumor cells oxygen consumption, which triggers hypoxia and irregular blood vessels formation in various regions of TME, resulting in an immunosuppressive TME, evasion of anti-tumor immunity, and resistance to immunotherapeutic agents. In this review, we discuss the role of heme, heme catabolism, and mitochondrial respiration on mediating immunosuppressive TME by promoting hypoxia, angiogenesis, and leaky tumor vasculature. Moreover, we discuss the therapeutic prospects of targeting heme and mitochondrial respiration in alleviating tumor hypoxia, normalizing tumor vasculature, and TME to restore anti-tumor immunity and resensitize cancer cells to immunotherapy.
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Tigue ML, Loberg MA, Goettel JA, Weiss WA, Lee E, Weiss VL. Wnt Signaling in the Phenotype and Function of Tumor-Associated Macrophages. Cancer Res 2023; 83:3-11. [PMID: 36214645 PMCID: PMC9812914 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1403] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) play an important role in supporting tumor growth and suppressing antitumor immune responses, and TAM infiltration has been associated with poor patient prognosis in various cancers. TAMs can be classified as pro-inflammatory, M1-like, or anti-inflammatory, M2-like. While multiple factors within the tumor microenvironment affect the recruitment, polarization, and functions of TAMs, accumulating evidence suggests that Wnt signaling represents an important, targetable driver of an immunosuppressive, M2-like TAM phenotype. TAM production of Wnt ligands mediates TAM-tumor cross-talk to support cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Targeting TAM polarization and the protumorigenic functions of TAMs through inhibitors of Wnt signaling may prove a beneficial treatment strategy in cancers where macrophages are prevalent in the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Tigue
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Matthew A Loberg
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jeremy A Goettel
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - William A Weiss
- Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics, Neurosurgery, Brain Tumor Research Center, and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Ethan Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Vivian L Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Hanchapola HACR, Liyanage DS, Omeka WKM, Lim C, Kim G, Jeong T, Lee J. Thioredoxin domain-containing protein 12 (TXNDC12) in red spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara): Molecular characteristics, disulfide reductase activities, and immune responses. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 132:108449. [PMID: 36436687 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Thioredoxins are small ubiquitous redox proteins that are involved in many biological processes. Proteins with thiol-disulfide bonds are essential regulators of cellular redox homeostasis and diagnostic markers for redox-dependent diseases. Here, we identified and characterized the thioredoxin domain-containing protein 12 (EaTXNDC12) gene in red spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara), evaluated transcriptional responses, and investigated the activity of the recombinant protein using functional assays. EaTXNDC12 is a 19.22-kDa endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident protein with a 522-bp open reading frame and 173 amino acids, including a signal peptide. We identified a conserved active motif (66WCGAC70) and ER retention motif (170GDEL173) in the EaTXNDC12 amino acid sequence. Relative EaTXNDC12 mRNA expression was analyzed using 12 different tissues, with the highest expression seen in brain tissue, while skin tissue showed the lowest expression level. Furthermore, mRNA expression in response to immune challenges was analyzed in the head kidney, blood, and gill tissues. EaTXNDC12 was significantly modulated in response to bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS), nervous necrosis virus (NNV), and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) challenges in all of the tested tissues. Recombinant EaTXNDC12 (rEaTXNDC12) displayed antioxidant ability in an insulin reductase assay, and a capacity for free radical inhibition in a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate assay. In addition, a DNA nicking assay revealed that purified rEaTXNDC12 exhibited concentration-dependent DNA protection activity, while results from 2-hydroxyethyl disulfide and L-dehydroascorbic assays indicated that rEaTXNDC12a possesses reducing ability. Furthermore, fathead minnow (FHM) cells transfected with EaTXNDC12-pcDNA demonstrated significantly upregulated cell survival against H2O2-induced apoptosis. Collectively, the results of this study strengthen our knowledge of EaTXNDC12 with respect to cellular redox hemostasis and immune regulation in Epinephelus akaara.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A C R Hanchapola
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - D S Liyanage
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - W K M Omeka
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaehyeon Lim
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Gaeun Kim
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehyug Jeong
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea; Marine Science Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63333, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jehee Lee
- Department of Marine Life Sciences & Fish Vaccine Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea; Marine Science Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63333, Republic of Korea.
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