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Oh M, Jung S, Kim YA, Lee GY, Han SN. Dietary vitamin D 3 supplementation enhances splenic NK cell activity in healthy and diabetic male mice. Nutr Res 2024; 127:144-155. [PMID: 38954977 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus negatively affects the immune system, resulting in reduced natural killer (NK) cell activity. Vitamin D has been shown to regulate innate and adaptive immune cells. However, the effects of vitamin D on NK cells remain inconclusive, especially in the context of diabetes. We hypothesized that dietary vitamin D3 supplementation can enhance NK cell activity in diabetic mice. Therefore, we investigated the effects of dietary vitamin D3 on NK cell activity in control and diabetic mice and explored the mechanisms of NK cell activity modulation by vitamin D3. Control (CON) and diabetic mice (db/db) were randomly divided into 2 groups, then fed either a control diet (948 IU vitamin D3/kg diet, vDC) or a diet supplemented with vitamin D3 (9,477 IU vitamin D3/kg diet, vDS) for 8 weeks. Diabetic mice exhibited lower NK cell activity than control mice. The vDS group had significantly higher NK cell activity than the vDC group in both control and diabetic mice. The vDS group had a higher percentage of CD11b single-positive NK cells than the vDC group (CON-vDS 34%; db/db-vDS 30%; CON-vDC 27%; db/db-vDC 22%). The intracellular expression of splenic TGF-β was significantly higher in the db/db group than in the CON group. Overall, vDS group had higher Bcl2 and Tbx21 mRNA expressions than the vDC group. In conclusion, the present study shows that NK cell activity is impaired under diabetic conditions, possibly due to the reduced percentage of mature NK cells. Moreover, NK activity is enhanced by dietary supplementation in both control and diabetic mice that may be associated with changes in the proportion of mature NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minha Oh
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sohee Jung
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Ah Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga Young Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Nim Han
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Human Ecology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Thangaraj JL, Coffey M, Lopez E, Kaufman DS. Disruption of TGF-β signaling pathway is required to mediate effective killing of hepatocellular carcinoma by human iPSC-derived NK cells. Cell Stem Cell 2024:S1934-5909(24)00217-0. [PMID: 38986609 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.06.009] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is highly expressed in the liver tumor microenvironment and is known to inhibit immune cell activity. Here, we used human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to produce natural killer (NK) cells engineered to mediate improved anti-HCC activity. Specifically, we produced iPSC-NK cells with either knockout TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-KO) or expression of a dominant negative (DN) form of the TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-DN) combined with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target either GPC3 or AFP. The TGFBR2-KO and TGFBR2-DN iPSC-NK cells are resistant to TGF-β inhibition and improved anti-HCC activity. However, expression of anti-HCC CARs on iPSC-NK cells did not lead to effective anti-HCC activity unless there was also inhibition of TGF-β activity. Our findings demonstrate that TGF-β signaling blockade is required for effective NK cell function against HCC and potentially other malignancies that express high levels of TGF-β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Lakshmi Thangaraj
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michael Coffey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Edith Lopez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dan S Kaufman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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3
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Moore J, Gkantalis J, Guix I, Chou W, Yuen K, Lazar AA, Spitzer M, Combes AJ, Barcellos-Hoff MH. Lack of TGFβ signaling competency predicts immune poor cancer conversion to immune rich and response to checkpoint blockade. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.06.583752. [PMID: 38496519 PMCID: PMC10942434 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.06.583752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Background Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) is well-recognized as an immunosuppressive player in the tumor microenvironment but also has a significant impact on cancer cell phenotypes. Loss of TGFβ signaling impairs DNA repair competency, which is described by a transcriptomic score, βAlt. Cancers with high βAlt have more genomic damage and are more responsive to genotoxic therapy. The growing appreciation that cancer DNA repair deficits are important determinants of immune response prompted us to investigate the association of βAlt with response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). We predicted that high βAlt tumors would be infiltrated with lymphocytes because of DNA damage burden and hence responsive to ICB. Methods We analyzed public transcriptomic data from clinical trials and preclinical models using transcriptomic signatures of TGFβ targets, DNA repair genes, tumor educated immune cells and interferon. A high βAlt, immune poor mammary tumor derived transplant model resistant to programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies was studied using multispectral flow cytometry to interrogate the immune system. Results Metastatic bladder patients in IMvigor 210 who responded to ICB had significantly increased βAlt scores and experienced significantly longer overall survival compared to those with low βAlt scores (hazard ratio 0.62, P=0.011) . Unexpectedly, 75% of high βAlt cancers were immune poor as defined by low expression of tumor educated immune cell and interferon signatures. The association of high βAlt with immune poor cancer was also evident in TCGA and preclinical cancer models. We used a high βAlt, immune poor cancer to test therapeutic strategies to overcome its inherent anti-PD-L1 resistance. Combination treatment with radiation and TGFβ inhibition were necessary for lymphocytic infiltration and activated NK cells were required for ICB response. Bioinformatic analysis identified high βAlt, immune poor B16 and CT26 preclinical models and paired biopsies of cancer patients that also demonstrated NK cell activation upon response to ICB. Conclusions Our studies support βAlt as a biomarker that predicts response to ICB albeit in immune poor cancers, which has implications for the development of therapeutic strategies to increase the number of cancer patients who will benefit from immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Moore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jim Gkantalis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ines Guix
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - William Chou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kobe Yuen
- Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ann A Lazar
- Division of Oral Epidemiology and Division of Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mathew Spitzer
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
- A member of the imCORE Network
| | - Alexis J Combes
- Department of Pathology, CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mary Helen Barcellos-Hoff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- A member of the imCORE Network
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4
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Vazaios K, van Berkum RE, Calkoen FG, van der Lugt J, Hulleman E. OV Modulators of the Paediatric Brain TIME: Current Status, Combination Strategies, Limitations and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5007. [PMID: 38732225 PMCID: PMC11084613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25095007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are characterised by their preference for infecting and replicating in tumour cells either naturally or after genetic modification, resulting in oncolysis. Furthermore, OVs can elicit both local and systemic anticancer immune responses while specifically infecting and lysing tumour cells. These characteristics render them a promising therapeutic approach for paediatric brain tumours (PBTs). PBTs are frequently marked by a cold tumour immune microenvironment (TIME), which suppresses immunotherapies. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the capability of OVs to induce a proinflammatory immune response, thereby modifying the TIME. In-depth insights into the effect of OVs on different cell types in the TIME may therefore provide a compelling basis for using OVs in combination with other immunotherapy modalities. However, certain limitations persist in our understanding of oncolytic viruses' ability to regulate the TIME to enhance anti-tumour activity. These limitations primarily stem from the translational limitations of model systems, the difficulties associated with tracking reliable markers of efficacy throughout the course of treatment and the role of pre-existing viral immunity. In this review, we describe the different alterations observed in the TIME in PBTs due to OV treatment, combination therapies of OVs with different immunotherapies and the hurdles limiting the development of effective OV therapies while suggesting future directions based on existing evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Esther Hulleman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (K.V.); (F.G.C.); (J.v.d.L.)
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Sukocheva OA, Neganova ME, Aleksandrova Y, Burcher JT, Chugunova E, Fan R, Tse E, Sethi G, Bishayee A, Liu J. Signaling controversy and future therapeutical perspectives of targeting sphingolipid network in cancer immune editing and resistance to tumor necrosis factor-α immunotherapy. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:251. [PMID: 38698424 PMCID: PMC11064425 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01626-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Anticancer immune surveillance and immunotherapies trigger activation of cytotoxic cytokine signaling, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) pathways. The pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α may be secreted by stromal cells, tumor-associated macrophages, and by cancer cells, indicating a prominent role in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, tumors manage to adapt, escape immune surveillance, and ultimately develop resistance to the cytotoxic effects of TNF-α. The mechanisms by which cancer cells evade host immunity is a central topic of current cancer research. Resistance to TNF-α is mediated by diverse molecular mechanisms, such as mutation or downregulation of TNF/TRAIL receptors, as well as activation of anti-apoptotic enzymes and transcription factors. TNF-α signaling is also mediated by sphingosine kinases (SphK1 and SphK2), which are responsible for synthesis of the growth-stimulating phospholipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). Multiple studies have demonstrated the crucial role of S1P and its transmembrane receptors (S1PR) in both the regulation of inflammatory responses and progression of cancer. Considering that the SphK/S1P/S1PR axis mediates cancer resistance, this sphingolipid signaling pathway is of mechanistic significance when considering immunotherapy-resistant malignancies. However, the exact mechanism by which sphingolipids contribute to the evasion of immune surveillance and abrogation of TNF-α-induced apoptosis remains largely unclear. This study reviews mechanisms of TNF-α-resistance in cancer cells, with emphasis on the pro-survival and immunomodulatory effects of sphingolipids. Inhibition of SphK/S1P-linked pro-survival branch may facilitate reactivation of the pro-apoptotic TNF superfamily effects, although the role of SphK/S1P inhibitors in the regulation of the TME and lymphocyte trafficking should be thoroughly assessed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga A Sukocheva
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
| | - Margarita E Neganova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds at Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Federal Research Center, Kazan Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kazan, 420088, Russian Federation
| | - Yulia Aleksandrova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds at Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Federal Research Center, Kazan Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kazan, 420088, Russian Federation
| | - Jack T Burcher
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA
| | - Elena Chugunova
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Federal Research Center, Kazan Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kazan, 420088, Russian Federation
| | - Ruitai Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Edmund Tse
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA.
| | - Junqi Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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6
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Liu Z, Wang H, Liu H, Ding K, Shen H, Zhao X, Fu R. Targeting NKG2D/NKG2DL axis in multiple myeloma therapy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024; 76:1-11. [PMID: 38378397 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Immune effector cells in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are at the forefront of many immunotherapy treatments, and several methods have been developed to fully utilise the antitumour potential of immune cells. T and NK cell-derived immune lymphocytes both expressed activating NK receptor group 2 member D(NKG2D). This receptor can identify eight distinct NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL), including major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC) chain-related protein A and B (MICA and MICB). Their binding to NKG2D triggers effector roles in T and NK cells. NKG2DL is polymorphic in MM cells. The decreased expression of NKG2DL on the cell surface is explained by multiple mechanisms of tumour immune escape. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which the NKG2D/NKG2DL axis regulates immune effector cells and strategies for promoting NKG2DL expression and inhibiting its release in multiple myeloma and propose therapeutic strategies that increase the expression of NKG2DL in MM cells while enhancing the activation and killing function of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyun Liu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China.
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Hongli Shen
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Xianghong Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China.
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7
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Pan X, Ni S, Hu K. Nanomedicines for reversing immunosuppressive microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomaterials 2024; 306:122481. [PMID: 38286109 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122481] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Although immunotherapeutic strategies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have gained promising advances, their limited efficacy and significant toxicity remain great challenges for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) immunotherapy. The tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) with insufficient T-cell infiltration and low immunogenicity accounts for most HCC patients' poor response to ICIs. Worse still, the current immunotherapeutics without precise delivery may elicit enormous autoimmune side effects and systemic toxicity in the clinic. With a better understanding of the TIME in HCC, nanomedicines have emerged as an efficient strategy to achieve remodeling of the TIME and superadditive antitumor effects via targeted delivery of immunotherapeutics or multimodal synergistic therapy. Based on the typical characteristics of the TIME in HCC, this review summarizes the recent advancements in nanomedicine-based strategies for TIME-reversing HCC treatment. Additionally, perspectives on the awaiting challenges and opportunities of nanomedicines in modulating the TIME of HCC are presented. Acquisition of knowledge of nanomedicine-mediated TIME reversal will provide researchers with a better opportunity for clinical translation of HCC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xier Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shuting Ni
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Kaili Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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8
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Chen Y, Yuan J, Tang F, Liu Q, Huang H, Liu H, Liu H. Research progress on the correlation between platelet aggregation and tumor progression. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:145-152. [PMID: 37458321 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Platelets are generally considered as the main functional unit of the coagulation system. However, more and more studies have confirmed that platelets also have an important relationship with tumor progression. Tumor cells can utilize platelets to promote their own infiltration and hematogenous metastasis, and platelets are activated and aggregated in this process. Therefore, platelet aggregation may be a concomitant marker of tumor progression. This is of great significance for predicting tumor metastasis before timely treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyu Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China.
| | - Jialong Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Faqing Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Qinglin Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Hongjun Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, PR China
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9
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Wei L, Xiang Z, Zou Y. The Role of NKG2D and Its Ligands in Autoimmune Diseases: New Targets for Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17545. [PMID: 38139373 PMCID: PMC10744089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells can clear infected and transformed cells and generate tolerance to themselves, which also prevents autoimmune diseases. Natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) is an important activating immune receptor that is expressed on NK cells, CD8+ T cells, γδ T cells, and a very small percentage of CD4+ T cells. In contrast, the NKG2D ligand (NKG2D-L) is generally not expressed on normal cells but is overexpressed under stress. Thus, the inappropriate expression of NKG2D-L leads to the activation of self-reactive effector cells, which can trigger or exacerbate autoimmunity. In this review, we discuss the role of NKG2D and NKG2D-L in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), type I diabetes (T1DM), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease (CeD). The data suggest that NKG2D and NKG2D-L play a pathogenic role in some autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the development of strategies to block the interaction of NKG2D and NKG2D-L may have therapeutic effects in some autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yizhou Zou
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China; (L.W.); (Z.X.)
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10
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Ghosh LD, Jain A. The prospects of microphysiological systems in modeling platelet pathophysiology in cancer. Platelets 2023; 34:2247489. [PMID: 37610007 PMCID: PMC10578702 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2023.2247489] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
The contribution of platelets is well recognized in thrombosis and hemostasis. However, platelets also promote tumor progression and metastasis through their crosstalk with various cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). For example, several cancer models continue to show that platelet functions are readily altered by cancer cells upon activation leading to the formation of platelet-tumor aggregates, triggering release of soluble factors from platelet granules and altering platelet turnover. Further, activated platelets protect tumor cells from shear forces in circulation and assault of cytotoxic natural killer (NK) cells. Platelet-secreted factors promote proliferation of malignant cells, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Much of our knowledge of platelet biology in cancer has been achieved with animal models, particularly murine. However, this preclinical understanding of the complex pathophysiology is yet to be fully realized and translated to clinical trials in terms of new approaches to treat cancer via controlling the platelet function. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of platelet physiology obtained through existing in vivo and in vitro cancer models, the complex interactions of platelets with cancer cells in TME and the pathways by which platelets may confer chemoresistance. Since the FDA Modernization Act recently passed by the US government has made animal models optional in drug approvals, we critically examine the existing and futuristic value of employing bioengineered microphysiological systems and organ-chips to understand the mechanistic role of platelets in cancer metastasis and exploring novel therapeutic targets for cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lopamudra D. Ghosh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
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11
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Guha A, Goswami KK, Sultana J, Ganguly N, Choudhury PR, Chakravarti M, Bhuniya A, Sarkar A, Bera S, Dhar S, Das J, Das T, Baral R, Bose A, Banerjee S. Cancer stem cell-immune cell crosstalk in breast tumor microenvironment: a determinant of therapeutic facet. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1245421. [PMID: 38090567 PMCID: PMC10711058 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1245421] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is globally one of the leading killers among women. Within a breast tumor, a minor population of transformed cells accountable for drug resistance, survival, and metastasis is known as breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Several experimental lines of evidence have indicated that BCSCs influence the functionality of immune cells. They evade immune surveillance by altering the characteristics of immune cells and modulate the tumor landscape to an immune-suppressive type. They are proficient in switching from a quiescent phase (slowly cycling) to an actively proliferating phenotype with a high degree of plasticity. This review confers the relevance and impact of crosstalk between immune cells and BCSCs as a fate determinant for BC prognosis. It also focuses on current strategies for targeting these aberrant BCSCs that could open avenues for the treatment of breast carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Guha
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Jasmine Sultana
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Nilanjan Ganguly
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Pritha Roy Choudhury
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Mohona Chakravarti
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Avishek Bhuniya
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Anirban Sarkar
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Saurav Bera
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Sukanya Dhar
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Juhina Das
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Tapasi Das
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Rathindranath Baral
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Anamika Bose
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology Biotechnology National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Sahibzada Ajit Singh (S.A.S.) Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Saptak Banerjee
- Department of Immunoregulation and Immunodiagnostics, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, India
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12
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Ji ZZ, Chan MKK, Chan ASW, Leung KT, Jiang X, To KF, Wu Y, Tang PMK. Tumour-associated macrophages: versatile players in the tumour microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1261749. [PMID: 37965573 PMCID: PMC10641386 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1261749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) are one of the pivotal components of the tumour microenvironment. Their roles in the cancer immunity are complicated, both pro-tumour and anti-cancer activities are reported, including not only angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling, immunosuppression, drug resistance but also phagocytosis and tumour regression. Interestingly, TAMs are highly dynamic and versatile in solid tumours. They show anti-cancer or pro-tumour activities, and interplay between the tumour microenvironment and cancer stem cells and under specific conditions. In addition to the classic M1/M2 phenotypes, a number of novel dedifferentiation phenomena of TAMs are discovered due to the advanced single-cell technology, e.g., macrophage-myofibroblast transition (MMT) and macrophage-neuron transition (MNT). More importantly, emerging information demonstrated the potential of TAMs on cancer immunotherapy, suggesting by the therapeutic efficiency of the checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor engineered cells based on macrophages. Here, we summarized the latest discoveries of TAMs from basic and translational research and discussed their clinical relevance and therapeutic potential for solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoey Zeyuan Ji
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Max Kam-Kwan Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alex Siu-Wing Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kam-Tong Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka-Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yi Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
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13
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Zhang J, Luo Q, Li X, Guo J, Zhu Q, Lu X, Wei L, Xiang Z, Peng M, Ou C, Zou Y. Novel role of immune-related non-coding RNAs as potential biomarkers regulating tumour immunoresponse via MICA/NKG2D pathway. Biomark Res 2023; 11:86. [PMID: 37784183 PMCID: PMC10546648 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00530-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major histocompatibility complex class I related chain A (MICA) is an important and stress-induced ligand of the natural killer group 2 member D receptor (NKG2D) that is expressed in various tumour cells. Given that the MICA/NKG2D signalling system is critically embedded in the innate and adaptive immune responses, it is particularly involved in the surveillance of cancer and viral infections. Emerging evidence has revealed the important roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in different cancer types. We searched for all relevant publications in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science database using the keywords ncRNA, MICA, NKG2D, cancer, and miRNAs. All relevant studies published from 2008 to the 2023 were retrieved and collated. Notably, we found that miRNAs can target to NKG2D mRNA and MICA mRNA 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTR), leading to translation inhibition of NKG2D and MICA degradation. Several immune-related MICA/NKG2D pathways may be dysregulated in cancer with aberrant miRNA expressions. At the same time, the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) hypothesis holds that circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs induce an abnormal MICA expression by directly targeting downstream miRNAs to mediate mRNA suppression in cancer. This review summarizes the novel mechanism of immune escape in the ncRNA-related MICA/NKG2D pathway mediated by NK cells and cancer cells. Moreover, we identified the miRNA-NKG2D, miRNA-MICA and circRNA/lncRNA/mRNA-miRNA-mRNA/MICA axis. Thus, we were particularly concerned with the regulation of mediated immune escape in the MICA/NKG2D pathway by ncRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers of immunity and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Qizhi Luo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Junshuang Guo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Quan Zhu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaofang Lu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Leiyan Wei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiqing Xiang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Manqing Peng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
| | - Yizhou Zou
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
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14
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Kitamura T. Tumour-associated macrophages as a potential target to improve natural killer cell-based immunotherapies. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:1003-1014. [PMID: 37313600 PMCID: PMC10539946 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230002] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells has been proposed as a novel immunotherapy for malignant tumours resistant to current therapeutic modalities. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that the NK cell-infusion is well tolerated without severe side effects and shows promising results in haematological malignancies. However, patients with malignant solid tumours do not show significant responses to this therapy. Such disappointing results largely arise from the inefficient delivery of infused NK cells and the impairment of their functions in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant stromal cells in the TME of most solid tumours, and a high TAM density correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Although our knowledge of the interactions between TAMs and NK cells is limited, many studies have indicated that TAMs suppress NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Therefore, blockade of TAM functions can be an attractive strategy to improve NK cell-based immunotherapies. On the other hand, macrophages are reported to activate NK cells under certain circumstances. This essay presents our current knowledge about mechanisms by which macrophages regulate NK cell functions and discusses possible therapeutic approaches to block macrophage-mediated NK cell suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Kitamura
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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15
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Massagué J, Sheppard D. TGF-β signaling in health and disease. Cell 2023; 186:4007-4037. [PMID: 37714133 PMCID: PMC10772989 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
The TGF-β regulatory system plays crucial roles in the preservation of organismal integrity. TGF-β signaling controls metazoan embryo development, tissue homeostasis, and injury repair through coordinated effects on cell proliferation, phenotypic plasticity, migration, metabolic adaptation, and immune surveillance of multiple cell types in shared ecosystems. Defects of TGF-β signaling, particularly in epithelial cells, tissue fibroblasts, and immune cells, disrupt immune tolerance, promote inflammation, underlie the pathogenesis of fibrosis and cancer, and contribute to the resistance of these diseases to treatment. Here, we review how TGF-β coordinates multicellular response programs in health and disease and how this knowledge can be leveraged to develop treatments for diseases of the TGF-β system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Massagué
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Dean Sheppard
- Department of Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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16
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Giles B, Nakhjavani M, Wiesa A, Knight T, Shigdar S, Samarasinghe RM. Unravelling the Glioblastoma Tumour Microenvironment: Can Aptamer Targeted Delivery Become Successful in Treating Brain Cancers? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4376. [PMID: 37686652 PMCID: PMC10487158 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174376] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The key challenges to treating glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) are the heterogeneous and complex nature of the GBM tumour microenvironment (TME) and difficulty of drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The TME is composed of various neuronal and immune cells, as well as non-cellular components, including metabolic products, cellular interactions, and chemical compositions, all of which play a critical role in GBM development and therapeutic resistance. In this review, we aim to unravel the complexity of the GBM TME, evaluate current therapeutics targeting this microenvironment, and lastly identify potential targets and therapeutic delivery vehicles for the treatment of GBM. Specifically, we explore the potential of aptamer-targeted delivery as a successful approach to treating brain cancers. Aptamers have emerged as promising therapeutic drug delivery vehicles with the potential to cross the BBB and deliver payloads to GBM and brain metastases. By targeting specific ligands within the TME, aptamers could potentially improve treatment outcomes and overcome the challenges associated with larger therapies such as antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna Giles
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Maryam Nakhjavani
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Andrew Wiesa
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Tareeque Knight
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
| | - Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Rasika M. Samarasinghe
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; (B.G.); (S.S.); (R.M.S.)
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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17
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Byun J, Wu Y, Lee J, Kim JS, Shim G, Oh YK. External cold atmospheric plasma-responsive on-site hydrogel for remodeling tumor immune microenvironment. Biomaterials 2023; 299:122162. [PMID: 37257401 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122162] [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: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Although immunotherapy has recently emerged as a promising anti-tumor approach, it remains limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Cold atmospheric plasma irradiation can generate reactive oxygen species and trigger the presentation of tumor-associated antigens. Here, we exploited cold atmospheric plasma for on-site hydrogel application in the tumor environment, aiming to facilitate the sustainable uptake of tumor-associated antigens and nanoadjuvants by dendritic cells. Hyaluronic acid-tyramine conjugate was intratumorally injected as a liquid and formed an on-site hydrogel under irradiation with cold atmospheric plasma. Intratumoral delivery of hyaluronic acid-tyramine conjugate with transforming growth factor β-blocking nanoadjuvant (TLN) followed by cold atmospheric plasma irradiation yielded a micro-network of TLN-loaded hydrogel (TLN@CHG). In vivo intratumoral injection of TLN@CHG promoted the activation of dendritic cells and more effectively increased the proportion of CD4 T cells and CD8 T cells in the tumor microenvironment, compared to the groups receiving TLN or hydrogel alone. Moreover, in CT26 tumor model mice, cold atmospheric plasma-induced TLN@CHG therapy ablated the primary tumor and provided 100% survival among mice rechallenged with CT26 cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that an on-site hydrogel-based micro-network of TLN has the potential to remodel the tumor immune microenvironment. Although we used TLN in this study, the concept could be extended to support the sustained action of other nanoadjuvants in a hydrogel micro-network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junho Byun
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yina Wu
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaiwoo Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Suk Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gayong Shim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science and Integrative Institute of Basic Sciences, Soongsil University, Seoul, 06978, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yu-Kyoung Oh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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18
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Anderson R, Rapoport BL, Steel HC, Theron AJ. Pro-Tumorigenic and Thrombotic Activities of Platelets in Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11927. [PMID: 37569299 PMCID: PMC10418868 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Aside from their key protective roles in hemostasis and innate immunity, platelets are now recognized as having multifaceted, adverse roles in the pathogenesis, progression and outcome of many types of human malignancy. The most consistent and compelling evidence in this context has been derived from the notable association of elevated circulating platelet counts with the onset and prognosis of various human malignancies, particularly lung cancer, which represents the primary focus of the current review. Key topics include an overview of the association of lung cancer with the circulating platelet count, as well as the mechanisms of platelet-mediated, pro-tumorigenic immunosuppression, particularly the role of transforming growth factor beta 1. These issues are followed by a discussion regarding the pro-tumorigenic role of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs), the most abundant type of microparticles (MPs) in human blood. In this context, the presence of increased levels of PMPs in the blood of lung cancer patients has been associated with tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, which correlate with disease progression and decreased survival times. The final section of the review addresses, firstly, the role of cancer-related platelet activation and thrombosis in the pathogenesis of secondary cardiovascular disorders and the associated mortality, particularly in lung cancer, which is second only to disease progression; secondly, the review addresses the potential role of antiplatelet agents in the adjunctive therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Anderson
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
| | - Bernardo L. Rapoport
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
- The Medical Oncology Centre of Rosebank, Johannesburg 2196, South Africa
| | - Helen C. Steel
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
| | - Annette J. Theron
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
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19
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Petillo S, Sproviero E, Loconte L, Cuollo L, Zingoni A, Molfetta R, Fionda C, Soriani A, Cerboni C, Petrucci MT, Fazio F, Paolini R, Santoni A, Cippitelli M. NEDD8-activating enzyme inhibition potentiates the anti-myeloma activity of natural killer cells. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:438. [PMID: 37460534 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05949-z] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells act as important regulators in the development and progression of hematological malignancies and their suppressor activity against Multiple Myeloma (MM) cells has been confirmed in many studies. Significant changes in the distribution of NK cell subsets and dysfunctions of NK cell effector activities were described in MM patients and correlated with disease staging. Thus, restoring or enhancing the functionality of these effectors for the treatment of MM represents a critical need. Neddylation is a post-translational modification that adds a ubiquitin-like molecule, NEDD8, to the substrate protein. One of the outcomes is the activation of the Cullin Ring Ligases (CRLs), a class of ubiquitin-ligases that controls the degradation of about 20% of proteasome-regulated proteins. Overactivation of CRLs has been described in cancer and can lead to tumor growth and progression. Thus, targeting neddylation represents an attractive approach for cancer treatment. Our group has recently described how pharmacologic inhibition of neddylation increases the expression of the NKG2D activating receptor ligands, MICA and MICB, in MM cells, making these cells more susceptible to NK cell degranulation and killing. Here, we extended our investigation to the direct role of neddylation on NK cell effector functions exerted against MM. We observed that inhibition of neddylation enhanced NK cell-mediated degranulation and killing against MM cells and improved Daratumumab/Elotuzumab-mediated response. Mechanistically, inhibition of neddylation increased the expression of Rac1 and RhoA GTPases in NK cells, critical mediators for an efficient degranulation at the immunological synapse of cytotoxic lymphocytes, and augmented the levels of F-actin and perforin polarization in NK cells contacting target cells. Moreover, inhibition of neddylation partially abrogated TGFβ-mediated repression of NK cell effector activity. This study describes the role of neddylation on NK cell effector functions and highlights the positive immunomodulatory effects achieved by the inhibition of this pathway in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Petillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Sproviero
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Loconte
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cuollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Molfetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Fionda
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Soriani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Cerboni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Petrucci
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fazio
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS, Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Marco Cippitelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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20
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Foo YY, Tiah A, Aung SW. Harnessing the power of memory-like NK cells to fight cancer. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 212:212-223. [PMID: 36866467 PMCID: PMC10243875 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells possess the innate ability to eliminate cancerous cells effectively. Their crucial role in immunosurveillance has been widely recognized and exploited for therapeutic intervention. Despite the fast-acting nature of NK cells, NK adoptive cell transfer lacks favorable response in some patients. Patient NK cells often display diminished phenotype in preventing cancer progression resulting in poor prognosis. Tumor microenvironment plays a significant role in causing the downfall of NK cells in patients. The release of inhibitory factors by tumor microenvironment hinders normal function of NK cells against tumor. To overcome this challenge, therapeutic strategies such as cytokine stimulation and genetic manipulation are being investigated to improve NK tumor-killing capacity. One of the promising approaches includes generation of more competent NK cells via ex vivo cytokines activation and proliferation. Cytokine-induced ML-NK demonstrated phenotypic alterations such as enhanced expression of activating receptors which help elevate their antitumor response. Previous preclinical studies showed enhanced cytotoxicity and IFNγ production in ML-NK cells compared to normal NK cells against malignant cells. Similar effects are shown in clinical studies in which MK-NK demonstrated encouraging results in treating hematological cancer. However, there is still a lack of in-depth studies using ML-NK in treating different types of tumors and cancers. With convincing preliminary response, this cell-based approach could be used to complement other therapeutic modalities to achieve better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Yan Foo
- Department of Research and Development, CELLAAX Sdn Bhd, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Angelina Tiah
- Department of Research and Development, CELLAAX Sdn Bhd, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
- Beike 23 Century Laboratory, 23 Century International Life Science Centre, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Shuh Wen Aung
- Beike 23 Century Laboratory, 23 Century International Life Science Centre, Block D & E, No. 3, Jalan Tasik, Mines Wellness City, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Selangor, Malaysia
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21
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Liu F, Wu Q, Dong Z, Liu K. Integrins in cancer: Emerging mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Ther 2023:108458. [PMID: 37245545 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Integrins are vital surface adhesion receptors that mediate the interactions between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells and are essential for cell migration and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Aberrant integrin activation promotes initial tumor formation, growth, and metastasis. Recently, many lines of evidence have indicated that integrins are highly expressed in numerous cancer types and have documented many functions of integrins in tumorigenesis. Thus, integrins have emerged as attractive targets for the development of cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms by which integrins contribute to most of the hallmarks of cancer. We focus on recent progress on integrin regulators, binding proteins, and downstream effectors. We highlight the role of integrins in the regulation of tumor metastasis, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, and other hallmarks of cancer. In addition, integrin-targeted immunotherapy and other integrin inhibitors that have been used in preclinical and clinical studies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Liu
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China; Tianjian Advanced Biomedical Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China; Tianjian Advanced Biomedical Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China.
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22
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Hojjatipour T, Maali A, Azad M. Natural killer cell epigenetic reprogramming in tumors and potential for cancer immunotherapy. Epigenomics 2023; 15:249-266. [PMID: 37125432 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0454] [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: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical members of the innate lymphoid cell population and have a pivotal role in cancer eradication. NK cell maturation, development and function are tightly regulated by epigenetic modifications, which can also be recruited for cancer propagation and immune escape. NK cells have the potential to be activated against tumors through several epigenetic regulators. Given that epigenetic changes are inducible and reversible, focusing on aberrant epigenetic regulations recruited by tumor cells provides a tremendous opportunity for cancer treatment. This review presents a comprehensive picture of NK cell normal epigenetic regulation and cancer-driven epigenetic modifications. From our perspective, a better understanding of epigenetic regulators that can edit and revise NK cells' activity is a promising avenue for NK cell-based therapy in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Hojjatipour
- Department of Hematology & Blood Transfusion, Students Research Center, School of Allied Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maali
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Paramedicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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23
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Abstract
T cells and natural killer (NK) cells have complementary roles in tumor immunity, and dual T cell and NK cell attack thus offers opportunities to deepen the impact of immunotherapy. Recent work has also shown that NK cells play an important role in recruiting dendritic cells to tumors and thus enhance induction of CD8 T cell responses, while IL-2 secreted by T cells activates NK cells. Targeting of immune evasion mechanisms from the activating NKG2D receptor and its MICA and MICB ligands on tumor cells offers opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Interestingly, T cells and NK cells share several important inhibitory and activating receptors that can be targeted to enhance T cell- and NK cell-mediated immunity. These inhibitory receptor-ligand systems include CD161-CLEC2D, TIGIT-CD155, and NKG2A/CD94-HLA-E. We also discuss emerging therapeutic strategies based on inhibitory and activating cytokines that profoundly impact the function of both lymphocyte populations within tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandr Kyrysyuk
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Kai W Wucherpfennig
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Neurology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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24
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Műzes G, Sipos F. Autoimmunity and Carcinogenesis: Their Relationship under the Umbrella of Autophagy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041130. [PMID: 37189748 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system and autophagy share a functional relationship. Both innate and adaptive immune responses involve autophagy and, depending on the disease’s origin and pathophysiology, it may have a detrimental or positive role on autoimmune disorders. As a “double-edged sword” in tumors, autophagy can either facilitate or impede tumor growth. The autophagy regulatory network that influences tumor progression and treatment resistance is dependent on cell and tissue types and tumor stages. The connection between autoimmunity and carcinogenesis has not been sufficiently explored in past studies. As a crucial mechanism between the two phenomena, autophagy may play a substantial role, though the specifics remain unclear. Several autophagy modifiers have demonstrated beneficial effects in models of autoimmune disease, emphasizing their therapeutic potential as treatments for autoimmune disorders. The function of autophagy in the tumor microenvironment and immune cells is the subject of intensive study. The objective of this review is to investigate the role of autophagy in the simultaneous genesis of autoimmunity and malignancy, shedding light on both sides of the issue. We believe our work will assist in the organization of current understanding in the field and promote additional research on this urgent and crucial topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Györgyi Műzes
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Sipos
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
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25
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Basak M, Chaudhary DK, Takahashi RU, Yamamoto Y, Tiwari S, Tahara H, Mittal A. Immunocyte Derived Exosomes: Insight into the Potential Chemo-immunotherapeutic Nanocarrier Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:20-39. [PMID: 36524837 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
"Cancer" is a dreadful immune-pathological condition that is characterized by anti-inflammatory and tumorigenic responses, elicited by the infiltrating immune cells in the vicinity of an uncontrollably proliferative tumor in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME offers a conducive microenvironment that supports cancer cell survival by modulating the host immune defense. Recent advancement in exosomal research has shown exosomes, originating from immune cells as well as the cancer cells, have immense potential for suppressing cancer progression and survival in the TME. Additionally, exosomes, irrespective of their diverse sources, have been reported to be efficient nanocarriers for cancer therapeutics with the ability for targeted delivery due to their biogenic nature, ease of cellular uptake, and scope for functionalization with biomolecules like peptides, aptamers, targeting ligands, etc. Immune cell-derived exosomes per se have been found efficacious against cancer owing to their immune-stimulant properties (in either naive or antigen primed form) even without loading any of cancer therapeutics or targeting ligand conjugation. Nevertheless, exosomes are being primarily explored as nanovesicular carriers for therapeutic molecules with different loading and targeting strategies, and the synergism between immunotherapeutic behavior of exosomes and the anticancer effect of the therapeutic molecules is yet to be explored. Hence, this review focuses specifically on the possible strategies to modulate the immunological nature of the source immune cells to obtain immune stimulant exosomes and bring these into the spotlight as chemo-immunotherapeutic nanovesicles, that can easily target and modulate the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moumita Basak
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Chaudhary
- Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology Division, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226014, India
| | - Ryou-U Takahashi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamamoto
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Swasti Tiwari
- Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology Division, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226014, India
| | - Hidetoshi Tahara
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Anupama Mittal
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
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26
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St-Cyr G, Penarroya D, Daniel L, Giguère H, Alkayyal AA, Tai LH. Remodeling the tumor immune microenvironment with oncolytic viruses expressing miRNAs. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1071223. [PMID: 36685574 PMCID: PMC9846254 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1071223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
MiRNAs (miRNA, miR) play important functions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by silencing gene expression through RNA interference. They are involved in regulating both tumor progression and tumor suppression. The pathways involved in miRNA processing and the miRNAs themselves are dysregulated in cancer. Consequently, they have become attractive therapeutic targets as underscored by the plethora of miRNA-based therapies currently in pre-clinical and clinical studies. It has been shown that miRNAs can be used to improve oncolytic viruses (OVs) and enable superior viral oncolysis, tumor suppression and immune modulation. In these cases, miRNAs are empirically selected to improve viral oncolysis, which translates into decreased tumor growth in multiple murine models. While this infectious process is critical to OV therapy, optimal immunomodulation is crucial for the establishment of a targeted and durable effect, resulting in cancer eradication. Through numerous mechanisms, OVs elicit a strong antitumor immune response that can also be further improved by miRNAs. They are known to regulate components of the immune TME and promote effector functions, antigen presentation, phenotypical polarization, and varying levels of immunosuppression. Reciprocally, OVs have the power to overcome the limitations encountered in canonical miRNA-based therapies. They deliver therapeutic payloads directly into the TME and facilitate their amplification through selective tumoral tropism and abundant viral replication. This way, off-target effects can be minimized. This review will explore the ways in which miRNAs can synergistically enhance OV immunotherapy to provide the basis for future therapeutics based on this versatile combination platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume St-Cyr
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Daphné Penarroya
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Lauren Daniel
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Hugo Giguère
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Almohanad A. Alkayyal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia,Immunology Research Program, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lee-Hwa Tai
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada,Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Universite de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada,*Correspondence: Lee-Hwa Tai,
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Druggable Biomarkers Altered in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: Strategy for the Development of Mechanism-Based Combination Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020902. [PMID: 36674417 PMCID: PMC9864911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020902] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapeutics made significant advances in the treatment of patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Resistance and serious adverse events associated with standard therapy of patients with advanced ccRCC highlight the need to identify alternative 'druggable' targets to those currently under clinical development. Although the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) and Polybromo1 (PBRM1) tumor-suppressor genes are the two most frequently mutated genes and represent the hallmark of the ccRCC phenotype, stable expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α/2α (HIFs), microRNAs-210 and -155 (miRS), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and thymidine phosphorylase (TP) are targets overexpressed in the majority of ccRCC tumors. Collectively, these altered biomarkers are highly interactive and are considered master regulators of processes implicated in increased tumor angiogenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune evasion. In recognition of the therapeutic potential of the indicated biomarkers, considerable efforts are underway to develop therapeutically effective and selective inhibitors of individual targets. It was demonstrated that HIFS, miRS, Nrf2, and TGF-ß are targeted by a defined dose and schedule of a specific type of selenium-containing molecules, seleno-L-methionine (SLM) and methylselenocystein (MSC). Collectively, the demonstrated pleiotropic effects of selenium were associated with the normalization of tumor vasculature, and enhanced drug delivery and distribution to tumor tissue, resulting in enhanced efficacy of multiple chemotherapeutic drugs and biologically targeted molecules. Higher selenium doses than those used in clinical prevention trials inhibit multiple targets altered in ccRCC tumors, which could offer the potential for the development of a new and novel therapeutic modality for cancer patients with similar selenium target expression. Better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of selenium modulation of specific targets altered in ccRCC could potentially have a significant impact on the development of a more efficacious and selective mechanism-based combination for the treatment of patients with cancer.
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28
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Hattinger CM, Salaroglio IC, Fantoni L, Godel M, Casotti C, Kopecka J, Scotlandi K, Ibrahim T, Riganti C, Serra M. Strategies to Overcome Resistance to Immune-Based Therapies in Osteosarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010799. [PMID: 36614241 PMCID: PMC9821333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010799] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving the prognosis and cure rate of HGOSs (high-grade osteosarcomas) is an absolute need. Immune-based treatment approaches have been increasingly taken into consideration, in particular for metastatic, relapsed and refractory HGOS patients, to ameliorate the clinical results currently achieved. This review is intended to give an overview on the immunotherapeutic treatments targeting, counteracting or exploiting the different immune cell compartments that are present in the HGOS tumor microenvironment. The principle at the basis of these strategies and the possible mechanisms that HGOS cells may use to escape these treatments are presented and discussed. Finally, a list of the currently ongoing immune-based trials in HGOS is provided, together with the results that have been obtained in recently completed clinical studies. The different strategies that are presently under investigation, which are generally aimed at abrogating the immune evasion of HGOS cells, will hopefully help to indicate new treatment protocols, leading to an improvement in the prognosis of patients with this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Maria Hattinger
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Leonardo Fantoni
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Godel
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5/bis, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Casotti
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Joanna Kopecka
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5/bis, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Toni Ibrahim
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5/bis, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimo Serra
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (M.S.)
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29
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Zhu S, Wang Y, Tang J, Cao M. Radiotherapy induced immunogenic cell death by remodeling tumor immune microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1074477. [PMID: 36532071 PMCID: PMC9753984 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1074477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that the induction of radiotherapy(RT) on the immunogenic cell death (ICD) is not only dependent on its direct cytotoxic effect, changes in the tumor immune microenvironment also play an important role in it. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) refers to the immune microenvironment that tumor cells exist, including tumor cells, inflammatory cells, immune cells, various signaling molecules and extracellular matrix. TIME has a barrier effect on the anti-tumor function of immune cells, which can inhibit all stages of anti-tumor immune response. The remodeling of TIME caused by RT may affect the degree of immunogenicity, and make it change from immunosuppressive phenotype to immunostimulatory phenotype. It is of great significance to reveal the causes of immune escape of tumor cells, especially for the treatment of drug-resistant tumor. In this review, we focus on the effect of RT on the TIME, the mechanism of RT in reversing the TIME to suppress intrinsic immunity, and the sensitization effect of the remodeling of TIME caused by RT on the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
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Preventing Surgery-Induced NK Cell Dysfunction Using Anti-TGF-β Immunotherapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314608. [PMID: 36498937 PMCID: PMC9737532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314608] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) production are profoundly suppressed postoperatively. This dysfunction is associated with increased morbidity and cancer recurrence. NK activity depends on the integration of activating and inhibitory signals, which may be modulated by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). We hypothesized that impaired postoperative NK cell IFNγ production is due to altered signaling pathways caused by postoperative TGF-β. NK cell receptor expression, downstream phosphorylated targets, and IFNγ production were assessed using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients undergoing cancer surgery. Healthy NK cells were incubated in the presence of healthy/baseline/postoperative day (POD) 1 plasma and in the presence/absence of a TGF-β-blocking monoclonal antibody (mAb) or the small molecule inhibitor (smi) SB525334. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed on PBMCs from six patients with colorectal cancer having surgery at baseline/on POD1. Intracellular IFNγ, activating receptors (CD132, CD212, NKG2D, DNAM-1), and downstream target (STAT5, STAT4, p38 MAPK, S6) phosphorylation were significantly reduced on POD1. Furthermore, this dysfunction was phenocopied in healthy NK cells through incubation with rTGF-β1 or POD1 plasma and was prevented by the addition of anti-TGF-β immunotherapeutics (anti-TGF-β mAb or TGF-βR smi). Targeted gene analysis revealed significant decreases in S6 and FKBP12, an increase in Shp-2, and a reduction in NK metabolism-associated transcripts on POD1. pSmad2/3 was increased and pS6 was reduced in response to rTGF-β1 on POD1, changes that were prevented by anti-TGF-β immunotherapeutics. Together, these results suggest that both canonical and mTOR pathways downstream of TGF-β mediate phenotypic changes that result in postoperative NK cell dysfunction.
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31
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Wang J, Liu T, Huang T, Shang M, Wang X. The mechanisms on evasion of anti-tumor immune responses in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:943806. [PMID: 36439472 PMCID: PMC9686275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.943806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system and the tumor have been at each other's throats for so long that the neoplasm has learned to avoid detection and avoid being attacked, which is called immune evasion. Malignant tumors, such as gastric cancer (GC), share the ability to evade the body's immune system as a defining feature. Immune evasion includes alterations to tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), antigen presentation mechanisms (APMs), and the tumor microenvironment (TME). While TAA and APM are simpler in nature, they both involve mutations or epigenetic regulation of genes. The TME is comprised of numerous cell types, cytokines, chemokines and extracellular matrix, any one of which might be altered to have an effect on the surrounding ecosystem. The NF-kB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Hippo and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways are all associated with gastric cancer tumor immune evasion. In this review, we will delineate the functions of these pathways in immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xudong Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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32
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Roles of TGF- β in cancer hallmarks and emerging onco-therapeutic design. Expert Rev Mol Med 2022; 24:e42. [PMID: 36345661 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2022.37] [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: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a double-edged sword in cancer treatment because of its pivotal yet complex and roles played during cancer initiation/development. Current anti-cancer strategies involving TGF-β largely view TGF-β as an onco-therapeutic target that not only substantially hinders its full utilisation for cancer control, but also considerably restricts innovations in this field. Thereby, how to take advantages of therapeutically favourable properties of TGF-β for cancer management represents an interesting and less investigated problem. Here, by categorising cancer hallmarks into four critical transition events and one enabling characteristic controlling cancer initiation and progression, and delineating TGF-β complexities according to these cancer traits, we identify the suppressive role of TGF-β in tumour initiation and early-stage progression and its promotive functionalities in cancer metastasis as well as other cancer hallmarks. We also propose the feasibility and possible scenarios of combining cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) with onco-therapeutics utilising TGF-β for cancer control given the intrinsic properties of CAP against cancer hallmarks.
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33
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Wen Y, Zhu Y, Zhang C, Yang X, Gao Y, Li M, Yang H, Liu T, Tang H. Chronic inflammation, cancer development and immunotherapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1040163. [PMID: 36313280 PMCID: PMC9614255 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1040163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation plays a pivotal role in cancer development. Cancer cells interact with adjacent cellular components (pro-inflammatory cells, intrinsic immune cells, stromal cells, etc.) and non-cellular components to form the inflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME). Interleukin 6 (IL-6), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), immune checkpoint factors and other pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by intrinsic immune cells in TME are the main mediators of intercellular communication in TME, which link chronic inflammation to cancer by stimulating different oncogenic signaling pathways and improving immune escape to promote cancer development. In parallel, the ability of monocytes, T regulatory cells (Tregs) and B regulatory cells (Bregs) to perform homeostatic tolerogenic functions is hijacked by cancer cells, leading to local or systemic immunosuppression. Standard treatments for advanced malignancies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy have improved in the last decades. However, clinical outcomes of certain malignant cancers are not satisfactory due to drug resistance and side effects. The clinical application of immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) has brought hope to cancer treatment, although therapeutic efficacy are still limited due to the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Emerging evidences reveal that ideal therapies including clearance of tumor cells, disruption of tumor-induced immunosuppression by targeting suppressive TME as well as reactivation of anti-tumor T cells by ICT. Here, we review the impacts of the major pro-inflammatory cells, mediators and their downstream signaling molecules in TME on cancer development. We also discuss the application of targeting important components in the TME in the clinical management of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalei Wen
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingjie Zhu
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caishi Zhang
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchen Gao
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mei Li
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Yang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Hongyan Yang, ; Tongzheng Liu, ; Hui Tang,
| | - Tongzheng Liu
- College of Pharmacy/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Hongyan Yang, ; Tongzheng Liu, ; Hui Tang,
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (Heyuan Shenhe People’s Hospital), Heyuan, China,*Correspondence: Hongyan Yang, ; Tongzheng Liu, ; Hui Tang,
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34
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Restricted Recruitment of NK Cells with Impaired Function Is Caused by HPV-Driven Immunosuppressive Microenvironment of Papillomas in Aggressive Juvenile-Onset Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis Patients. J Virol 2022; 96:e0094622. [PMID: 36154611 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00946-22] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Laryngopharynx epithelium neoplasia induced by HPV6/11 infection in juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JO-RRP) causes a great health issue characteristic of frequent relapse and aggressive disease progression. Local cell-mediated immunity shaped by the recruitment and activation of cytotoxic effector cells is critical for viral clearance. In this study, we found that NK cells in the papillomas of aggressive JO-RRP patients, in contrast to massive infiltrated T cells, were scarce in number and impaired in activation and cytotoxicity as they were in peripheral blood. Data from cell infiltration analysis indicated that the migration of NK cell to papilloma was restricted in aggressive JO-RRP patients. Further study showed that the skewed chemokine expression in the papillomas and elevated ICAM-1 expression in hyperplastic epithelia cells favored the T cell but not NK cell recruitment in aggressive JO-RRP patients. In parallel to the increased CD3+ T cells, we observed a dramatical increase in Tregs and Treg-promoting cytokines such as IL-4, IL-10 and TGFβ in papillomas of aggressive JO-RRP patients. Our study suggested that likely initialized by the intrinsic change in neoplastic epithelial cells with persistent HPV infection, the aggressive papillomas built an entry barrier for NK cell infiltration and formed an immunosuppressive clump to fend off the immune attack from intra-papillomas NK cells. IMPORTANCE Frequent relapse and aggressive disease progression of juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JO-RRP) pose a great challenge to the complete remission of HPV 6/11 related laryngeal neoplasia. Local immune responses in papillomas are more relevant to the disease control considering the locale infected restriction of HPV virus in epitheliums. In our study, the restricted NK cell number and reduced expression of activating NKp30 receptor suggested one possible mechanism underlying impaired NK cell defense ability in aggressive JO-RRP papillomas. Meanwhile, the negative impact of HPV persistent infection on NK cell number and function represented yet another example of a chronic pathogen subverting NK cell behavior, affirming a potentially important role for NK cells in viral containment. Further, the skewed chemokine/cytokine expression in the papillomas and the elevated adhesion molecules expression in hyperplastic epithelia cells provided important clues for understanding blocked infiltration and antiviral dysfunction of NK cells in papilloma.
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35
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STAT1 is associated with NK cell dysfunction by downregulating NKG2D transcription in chronic HBV-infected patients. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152272. [PMID: 36122437 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152272] [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: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Natural killer (NK) cells are key players in the immune system, however, the exact mechanism of NK cell dysfunction during HBV infection remains poorly defined. METHODS Hepatitis B envelope antigen-negative (HBeAg-, n = 19) chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) patients, HBeAg-positive (HBeAg+, n = 20) CHB patients, HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC, n = 12) patients and healthy blood donors (HD, n = 20), were enrolled in our study. The phenotype and function of the corresponding NK cells of these subjects were then determined. NK cells were cocultured with HBV to assess whether HBV influences the activation of STAT1. Receptors, proliferation, apoptosis rate, and cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells were detected after STAT1 overexpression and knockdown. The relationship between STAT1 and NKG2D promoter was determined by luciferase assay. RESULTS The levels of NKG2D and STAT1 were the lowest in the HBV-HCC group compared with the HD group, followed by the HBeAg+ group and then the HBeAg- group, respectively. Interestingly, STAT1 levels were positively correlated with NKG2D expression and HBeAg status. Furthermore, STAT1 directly bound to the NKG2D promoter to regulate the transcription and expression of NKG2D. Finally, the results also suggested that knockdown of STAT1 can inhibit proliferation, increase apoptosis rate of NK-92 cells and impair cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells. CONCLUSION STAT1 is correlated with NK cell dysfunction by downregulating NKG2D transcription in HBV-infected patients. Our findings demonstrate that STAT1 is an important and positive regulator of NK cells, which could provide a potential immunotherapy target for CHB.
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Liu S, Nguyen K, Park D, Wong N, Wang A, Zhou Y, Cui Y. Harnessing natural killer cells to develop next‐generation cellular immunotherapy. Chronic Dis Transl Med 2022; 8:245-255. [DOI: 10.1002/cdt3.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Siyao Liu
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
| | - Kaycee Nguyen
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
| | - Dongyong Park
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
| | - Nelson Wong
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
| | - Anson Wang
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine Texas A&M University Houston Texas USA
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Zhu T, Han J, Yang L, Cai Z, Sun W, Hua Y, Xu J. Immune Microenvironment in Osteosarcoma: Components, Therapeutic Strategies and Clinical Applications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:907550. [PMID: 35720360 PMCID: PMC9198725 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.907550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is a primary malignant tumor that tends to threaten children and adolescents, and the 5-year event-free survival rate has not improved significantly in the past three decades, bringing grief and economic burden to patients and society. To date, the genetic background and oncogenesis mechanisms of osteosarcoma remain unclear, impeding further research. The tumor immune microenvironment has become a recent research hot spot, providing novel but valuable insight into tumor heterogeneity and multifaceted mechanisms of tumor progression and metastasis. However, the immune microenvironment in osteosarcoma has been vigorously discussed, and the landscape of immune and non-immune component infiltration has been intensively investigated. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of the classification, features, and functions of the main infiltrating cells, complement system, and exosomes in the osteosarcoma immune microenvironment. In each section, we also highlight the complex crosstalk network among them and the corresponding potential therapeutic strategies and clinical applications to deepen our understanding of osteosarcoma and provide a reference for imminent effective therapies with reduced adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengdong Cai
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingqi Hua
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai, China
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MicroRNA Expression in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines and Tumor Biopsies: Potential Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105604. [PMID: 35628416 PMCID: PMC9147802 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was carried out to quantitate the expression levels of microRNA-17, -19a, -34a, -155, and -210 (miRs) expressed in nine clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and one chromophobe renal cell carcinoma cell line with and without sarcomatoid differentiation, and in six primary kidney tumors with matching normal kidney tissues. The data in the five non-sarcomatoid ccRCC cell lines-RC2, CAKI-1, 786-0, RCC4, and RCC4/VHL-and in the four ccRCC with sarcomatoid differentiation-RCJ41T1, RCJ41T2, RCJ41M, and UOK-127-indicated that miR-17 and -19a were expressed at lower levels relative to miR-34a, -155, and -210. Compared with RPTEC normal epithelial cells, miR-34a, miR-155, and miR-210 were expressed at higher levels, independent of the sarcomatoid differentiation status and hypoxia-inducible factors 1α and 2α (HIFs) isoform expression. In the one chromophobe renal cell carcinoma cell line, namely, UOK-276 with sarcomatoid differentiation, and expressing tumor suppressor gene TP53, miR-34a, which is a tumor suppressor gene, was expressed at higher levels than miR-210, -155, -17, and -19a. The pilot results generated in six tumor biopsies with matching normal kidney tissues indicated that while the expression of miR-17 and -19a were similar to the normal tissue expression profile, miR-210, -155, -and 34a were expressed at a higher level. To confirm that differences in the expression levels of the five miRs in the six tumor biopsies were statistically significant, the acquisition of a larger sample size is required. Data previously generated in ccRCC cell lines demonstrating that miR-210, miR-155, and HIFs are druggable targets using a defined dose and schedule of selenium-containing molecules support the concept that simultaneous and concurrent downregulation of miR-210, miR-155, and HIFs, which regulate target genes associated with increased tumor angiogenesis and drug resistance, may offer the potential for the development of a novel mechanism-based strategy for the treatment of patients with advanced ccRCC.
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Sakowska J, Arcimowicz Ł, Jankowiak M, Papak I, Markiewicz A, Dziubek K, Kurkowiak M, Kote S, Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka K, Połom K, Marek-Trzonkowska N, Trzonkowski P. Autoimmunity and Cancer-Two Sides of the Same Coin. Front Immunol 2022; 13:793234. [PMID: 35634292 PMCID: PMC9140757 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.793234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune disease results from the immune response against self-antigens, while cancer develops when the immune system does not respond to malignant cells. Thus, for years, autoimmunity and cancer have been considered as two separate fields of research that do not have a lot in common. However, the discovery of immune checkpoints and the development of anti-cancer drugs targeting PD-1 (programmed cell death receptor 1) and CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4) pathways proved that studying autoimmune diseases can be extremely helpful in the development of novel anti-cancer drugs. Therefore, autoimmunity and cancer seem to be just two sides of the same coin. In the current review, we broadly discuss how various regulatory cell populations, effector molecules, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors contribute to the loss of self-tolerance in autoimmunity or tolerance induction to cancer. With the current paper, we also aim to convince the readers that the pathways involved in cancer and autoimmune disease development consist of similar molecular players working in opposite directions. Therefore, a deep understanding of the two sides of immune tolerance is crucial for the proper designing of novel and selective immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Sakowska
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Łukasz Arcimowicz
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Martyna Jankowiak
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ines Papak
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Markiewicz
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Dziubek
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kurkowiak
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sachin Kote
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | - Karol Połom
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Cellular Therapies, Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Piotr Trzonkowski
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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40
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Salminen A. Clinical perspectives on the age-related increase of immunosuppressive activity. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:697-712. [PMID: 35384505 PMCID: PMC8985067 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02193-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The aging process is associated with a remodeling of the immune system involving chronic low-grade inflammation and a gradual decline in the function of the immune system. These processes are also called inflammaging and immunosenescence. The age-related immune remodeling is associated with many clinical changes, e.g., risk for cancers and chronic infections increases, whereas the efficiency of vaccination and immunotherapy declines with aging. On the other hand, there is convincing evidence that chronic inflammatory states promote the premature aging process. The inflammation associated with aging or chronic inflammatory conditions stimulates a counteracting immunosuppression which protects tissues from excessive inflammatory injuries but promotes immunosenescence. Immunosuppression is a driving force in tumors and chronic infections and it also induces the tolerance to vaccination and immunotherapies. Immunosuppressive cells, e.g., myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), regulatory T cells (Treg), and type M2 macrophages, have a crucial role in tumorigenesis and chronic infections as well as in the tolerance to vaccination and immunotherapies. Interestingly, there is substantial evidence that inflammaging is also associated with an increased immunosuppressive activity, e.g., upregulation of immunosuppressive cells and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Given that both the aging and chronic inflammatory states involve the activation of immunosuppression and immunosenescence, this might explain why aging is a risk factor for tumorigenesis and chronic inflammatory states and conversely, chronic inflammatory insults promote the premature aging process in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antero Salminen
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland.
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41
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Wu X, Xiao Y, Guo D, Zhang Z, Liu M. Reduced NK Cell Cytotoxicity by Papillomatosis-Derived TGF-β Contributing to Low-Risk HPV Persistence in JORRP Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:849493. [PMID: 35350785 PMCID: PMC8957810 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.849493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of natural killer (NK) cells in juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JORRP) patients remains elusive. In this study, we find increased NK cell percentage, particularly CD11b-CD27- (DN) subsets in peripheral blood of JORRP patients and associated with disease activity. RNA sequencing shows a downregulated "natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity" feature in JORRP tumors. We also find impaired cytotoxic capacity and lower expression of NK cell-activating receptors including NKp30 and NKp46. Higher transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) is found both in plasma and tumor tissues of JORRP, and anti-TGF-β1 antibody could restore NK cell cytolytic activity and upregulate NKp30 and NKG2D expression. Also, we find a significantly higher Chemokine receptor type 6 (CXCR6) on NK cells in tumors compared with that in peripheral blood. Finally, RT-PCR analysis show that both HPV6-E6-E7 and HPV11-E6-E7 overexpression leads to higher TGFB1 expression compared with control SNU-1076 cell line, and higher CXCR6 expression is detected on NK coculture with HPV11-E6-E7-overexpressing cells. In conclusion, we demonstrate that TGF-β1 by papillomatosis leads to decreased NK cell cytotoxicity through downregulating NK cell-activating receptors in JORRP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xunyao Wu
- Clinical Biobank, Department of Medical Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Guo
- Clinical Biobank, Department of Medical Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zixin Zhang
- Clinical Biobank, Department of Medical Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Meiyu Liu
- Clinical Biobank, Department of Medical Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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42
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Brauning A, Rae M, Zhu G, Fulton E, Admasu TD, Stolzing A, Sharma A. Aging of the Immune System: Focus on Natural Killer Cells Phenotype and Functions. Cells 2022; 11:cells11061017. [PMID: 35326467 PMCID: PMC8947539 DOI: 10.3390/cells11061017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is the greatest risk factor for nearly all major chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases of aging. Age-related impairment of immune function (immunosenescence) is one important cause of age-related morbidity and mortality, which may extend beyond its role in infectious disease. One aspect of immunosenescence that has received less attention is age-related natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction, characterized by reduced cytokine secretion and decreased target cell cytotoxicity, accompanied by and despite an increase in NK cell numbers with age. Moreover, recent studies have revealed that NK cells are the central actors in the immunosurveillance of senescent cells, whose age-related accumulation is itself a probable contributor to the chronic sterile low-grade inflammation developed with aging (“inflammaging”). NK cell dysfunction is therefore implicated in the increasing burden of infection, malignancy, inflammatory disorders, and senescent cells with age. This review will focus on recent advances and open questions in understanding the interplay between systemic inflammation, senescence burden, and NK cell dysfunction in the context of aging. Understanding the factors driving and enforcing NK cell aging may potentially lead to therapies countering age-related diseases and underlying drivers of the biological aging process itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Brauning
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
| | - Michael Rae
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
| | - Gina Zhu
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
| | - Elena Fulton
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
| | - Tesfahun Dessale Admasu
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
| | - Alexandra Stolzing
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
- Centre for Biological Engineering, Wolfson School of Electrical, Material and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Amit Sharma
- SENS Research Foundation, Mountain View, CA 94041, USA; (A.B.); (M.R.); (G.Z.); (E.F.); (T.D.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (A.S.)
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43
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Elebyary O, Barbour A, Fine N, Tenenbaum HC, Glogauer M. The Crossroads of Periodontitis and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Immune Implications and Tumor Promoting Capacities. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 1:584705. [PMID: 35047982 PMCID: PMC8757853 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2020.584705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Periodontitis (PD) is increasingly considered to interact with and promote a number of inflammatory diseases, including cancer. In the case of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) the local inflammatory response associated with PD is capable of triggering altered cellular events that can promote cancer cell invasion and proliferation of existing primary oral carcinomas as well as supporting the seeding of metastatic tumor cells into the gingival tissue giving rise to secondary tumors. Both the immune and stromal components of the periodontium exhibit phenotypic alterations and functional differences during PD that result in a microenvironment that favors cancer progression. The inflammatory milieu in PD is ideal for cancer cell seeding, migration, proliferation and immune escape. Understanding the interactions governing this attenuated anti-tumor immune response is vital to unveil unexplored preventive or therapeutic possibilities. Here we review the many commonalities between the oral-inflammatory microenvironment in PD and oral-inflammatory responses that are associated with OSCC progression, and how these conditions can act to promote and sustain the hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omnia Elebyary
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Noah Fine
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Howard C Tenenbaum
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Dentistry, Centre for Advanced Dental Research and Care, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Glogauer
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Dentistry, Centre for Advanced Dental Research and Care, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Dental Oncology, Maxillofacial and Ocular Prosthetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
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44
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Hosseini R, Sarvnaz H, Arabpour M, Ramshe SM, Asef-Kabiri L, Yousefi H, Akbari ME, Eskandari N. Cancer exosomes and natural killer cells dysfunction: biological roles, clinical significance and implications for immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:15. [PMID: 35031075 PMCID: PMC8759167 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs) play pivotal roles in several aspects of cancer biology. It is now evident that TDEs also favor tumor growth by negatively affecting anti-tumor immunity. As important sentinels of immune surveillance system, natural killer (NK) cells can recognize malignant cells very early and counteract the tumor development and metastasis without a need for additional activation. Based on this rationale, adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded NK cells/NK cell lines, such as NK-92 cells, has attracted great attention and is widely studied as a promising immunotherapy for cancer treatment. However, by exploiting various strategies, including secretion of exosomes, cancer cells are able to subvert NK cell responses. This paper reviews the roles of TDEs in cancer-induced NK cells impairments with mechanistic insights. The clinical significance and potential approaches to nullify the effects of TDEs on NK cells in cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Hosseini
- Department of Immunology School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Hamzeh Sarvnaz
- Department of Immunology School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maedeh Arabpour
- Department of Medical Genetics School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Molaei Ramshe
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine Shahid, Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Asef-Kabiri
- Surgical Oncologist Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Yousefi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, USA
| | - Mohammad Esmaeil Akbari
- Surgical Oncologist Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Eskandari
- Department of Immunology School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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45
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Herrera FG, Ronet C, Ochoa de Olza M, Barras D, Crespo I, Andreatta M, Corria-Osorio J, Spill A, Benedetti F, Genolet R, Orcurto A, Imbimbo M, Ghisoni E, Navarro Rodrigo B, Berthold DR, Sarivalasis A, Zaman K, Duran R, Dromain C, Prior J, Schaefer N, Bourhis J, Dimopoulou G, Tsourti Z, Messemaker M, Smith T, Warren SE, Foukas P, Rusakiewicz S, Pittet MJ, Zimmermann S, Sempoux C, Dafni U, Harari A, Kandalaft LE, Carmona SJ, Dangaj Laniti D, Irving M, Coukos G. Low-Dose Radiotherapy Reverses Tumor Immune Desertification and Resistance to Immunotherapy. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:108-133. [PMID: 34479871 PMCID: PMC9401506 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Developing strategies to inflame tumors is critical for increasing response to immunotherapy. Here, we report that low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) of murine tumors promotes T-cell infiltration and enables responsiveness to combinatorial immunotherapy in an IFN-dependent manner. Treatment efficacy relied upon mobilizing both adaptive and innate immunity and depended on both cytotoxic CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. LDRT elicited predominantly CD4+ cells with features of exhausted effector cytotoxic cells, with a subset expressing NKG2D and exhibiting proliferative capacity, as well as a unique subset of activated dendritic cells expressing the NKG2D ligand RAE1. We translated these findings to a phase I clinical trial administering LDRT, low-dose cyclophosphamide, and immune checkpoint blockade to patients with immune-desert tumors. In responsive patients, the combinatorial treatment triggered T-cell infiltration, predominantly of CD4+ cells with Th1 signatures. Our data support the rational combination of LDRT with immunotherapy for effectively treating low T cell-infiltrated tumors. SIGNIFICANCE: Low-dose radiation reprogrammed the tumor microenvironment of tumors with scarce immune infiltration and together with immunotherapy induced simultaneous mobilization of innate and adaptive immunity, predominantly CD4+ effector T cells, to achieve tumor control dependent on NKG2D. The combination induced important responses in patients with metastatic immune-cold tumors.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda G. Herrera
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Radiation Oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Catherine Ronet
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maria Ochoa de Olza
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Barras
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Isaac Crespo
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Massimo Andreatta
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jesus Corria-Osorio
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aodrenn Spill
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabrizio Benedetti
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Genolet
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Angela Orcurto
- Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martina Imbimbo
- Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eleonora Ghisoni
- Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Blanca Navarro Rodrigo
- Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dominik R. Berthold
- Medical Oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Apostolos Sarivalasis
- Medical Oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Khalil Zaman
- Medical Oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rafael Duran
- Department of Radiology and Interventional Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Clarisse Dromain
- Department of Radiology and Interventional Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - John Prior
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Schaefer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean Bourhis
- Radiation Oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Georgia Dimopoulou
- Unit of Translational Oncopathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zoi Tsourti
- Unit of Translational Oncopathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marius Messemaker
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas Smith
- NanoString Technologies Inc., Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Periklis Foukas
- Second Department of Pathology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sylvie Rusakiewicz
- School of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mikaël J. Pittet
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, and Department of Oncology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Zimmermann
- Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christine Sempoux
- Unit of Translational Oncopathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Urania Dafni
- School of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandre Harari
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lana E. Kandalaft
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Center of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Santiago J. Carmona
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Denarda Dangaj Laniti
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Melita Irving
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - George Coukos
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Immuno-oncology Service, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Corresponding Author: George Coukos, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne BH09-701, Switzerland. Phone: 41-21-314-1357; E-mail:
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Zhang M, Zhang YY, Chen Y, Wang J, Wang Q, Lu H. TGF-β Signaling and Resistance to Cancer Therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:786728. [PMID: 34917620 PMCID: PMC8669610 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.786728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) pathway, which is well studied for its ability to inhibit cell proliferation in early stages of tumorigenesis while promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and invasion in advanced cancer, is considered to act as a double-edged sword in cancer. Multiple inhibitors have been developed to target TGF-β signaling, but results from clinical trials were inconsistent, suggesting that the functions of TGF-β in human cancers are not yet fully explored. Multiple drug resistance is a major challenge in cancer therapy; emerging evidence indicates that TGF-β signaling may be a key factor in cancer resistance to chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Finally, combining anti-TGF-β therapy with other cancer therapy is an attractive venue to be explored for the treatment of therapy-resistant cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoduo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yi Zhang
- Centre for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yongze Chen
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hezhe Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Benjamin DJ, Lyou Y. Advances in Immunotherapy and the TGF-β Resistance Pathway in Metastatic Bladder Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225724. [PMID: 34830879 PMCID: PMC8616345 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Bladder cancer accounts for a significant burden to global public health. Despite advances in therapeutics with the advent of immunotherapy, only a small subset of patients benefit from immunotherapy. In this review, we examine the evidence that suggests that the TGF-β pathway may present a resistance mechanism to immunotherapy. In addition, we present possible therapies that may overcome the TGF-β resistance pathway in the treatment of bladder cancer. Abstract Bladder cancer accounts for nearly 200,000 deaths worldwide yearly. Urothelial carcinoma (UC) accounts for nearly 90% of cases of bladder cancer. Cisplatin-based chemotherapy has remained the mainstay of treatment in the first-line setting for locally advanced or metastatic UC. More recently, the treatment paradigm in the second-line setting was drastically altered with the approval of several immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Given that only a small subset of patients respond to ICI, further studies have been undertaken to understand potential resistance mechanisms to ICI. One potential resistance mechanism that has been identified in the setting of metastatic UC is the TGF-β signaling pathway. Several pre-clinical and ongoing clinical trials in multiple advanced tumor types have evaluated several therapies that target the TGF-β pathway. In addition, there are ongoing and planned clinical trials combining TGF-β inhibition with ICI, which may provide a promising therapeutic approach for patients with advanced and metastatic UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Benjamin
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UC Irvine Medical Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA;
| | - Yung Lyou
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-626-256-2805; Fax: +1-625-301-8233
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Cascio S, Chandler C, Zhang L, Sinno S, Gao B, Onkar S, Bruno TC, Vignali DAA, Mahdi H, Osmanbeyoglu HU, Vlad AM, Coffman LG, Buckanovich RJ. Cancer-associated MSC drive tumor immune exclusion and resistance to immunotherapy, which can be overcome by Hedgehog inhibition. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabi5790. [PMID: 34767446 PMCID: PMC8589308 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi5790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the impact of cancer-associated mesenchymal stem cells (CA-MSCs) on ovarian tumor immunity. In patient samples, CA-MSC presence inversely correlates with the presence of intratumoral CD8+ T cells. Using an immune “hot” mouse ovarian cancer model, we found that CA-MSCs drive CD8+ T cell tumor immune exclusion and reduce response to anti–PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) via secretion of numerous chemokines (Ccl2, Cx3cl1, and Tgf-β1), which recruit immune-suppressive CD14+Ly6C+Cx3cr1+ monocytic cells and polarize macrophages to an immune suppressive Ccr2hiF4/80+Cx3cr1+CD206+ phenotype. Both monocytes and macrophages express high levels of transforming growth factor β–induced (Tgfbi) protein, which suppresses NK cell activity. Hedgehog inhibitor (HHi) therapy reversed CA-MSC effects, reducing myeloid cell presence and expression of Tgfbi, increasing intratumoral NK cell numbers, and restoring response to ICI therapy. Thus, CA-MSCs regulate antitumor immunity, and CA-MSC hedgehog signaling is an important target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cascio
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Chelsea Chandler
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Linan Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Sarah Sinno
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Bingsi Gao
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Sayali Onkar
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Tullia C. Bruno
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Dario A. A. Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Haider Mahdi
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Hatice U. Osmanbeyoglu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Anda M. Vlad
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lan G. Coffman
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Ronald J. Buckanovich
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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NK Cell Regulation in Cervical Cancer and Strategies for Immunotherapy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113104. [PMID: 34831327 PMCID: PMC8619016 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent gynaecological malignancies worldwide and is related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, viral persistence, progression, and invasion. Therefore, the immune response is linked to HPV status. Natural killer (NK) cells play a central role against virus-infected cells and tumours through a delicate balance between activating and inhibitory receptors and secretion of cytokines and chemokines. These cells also play a crucial role in tumour immunosurveillance. For these reasons, there is growing interest in harnessing NK cells as an immunotherapy for cervical cancer. These studies are diverse and include many strategies such as transferring activated autologous or allogeneic NK cells, improving the activation and cytolytic activity of NK cells using cytokines or analogues and modifying chimeric antigen receptors to increase specificity and targeting NK cells. However, research regarding the application of NK cells in immunotherapy is limited. This article focuses on recent discoveries about using NK cells to prevent and treat cervical cancer and the possibility of cellular immunotherapy becoming one of the best strategies to exploit the immune system to fight tumours.
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Liang Y, Li W, Qian B, Ming J, Zhao Z, Yan Z, Zhao X, Chen S, Yin Y. The role of TGF-β pathway alterations in immune regulation as a potential pan-cancer biomarker in immunotherapy. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1660. [PMID: 34988169 PMCID: PMC8667138 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-5138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depending on the context, the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is involved in opposing cell processes of tumor suppression and tumor promotion. However, the effects of TGF-β pathway on immunotherapy efficacy have not yet been systematically investigated. METHODS In this study, we have extracted the available data of whole-exome sequencing, messenger RNA (mRNA) expression, baseline characterization, and prognosis information of 10,912 pan-cancer patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas to explore the role of TGF-β pathway in immune regulation. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples from 6,717 Chinese cancer patients assayed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) were used as a validation cohort (3DMed cohort). Data sets from the public MSK (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center) cohort (N=1,610) were used to explore the association of TGF-β pathway with immunotherapy effects. RESULTS The results showed that TGF-β pathway alteration was significantly correlated with high microsatellite instability (MSI), high tumor mutational burden, and high neoantigen burden (TNB) (P<0.001 for each). Consistently, the pathway mutations were associated with distinct patterns of immune-related gene expression and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Patients with TGF-β pathway mutations exhibited significantly worse prognosis than did the wild-type patients regardless of the interventions [overall survival (OS): hazard ratio (HR) 1.20; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08-1.33; P=0.001]. However, when treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), superior survival benefit was observed in patients from the mutation group versus the wild-type group (OS: HR 0.73; 95% CI: 0.61-0.88; P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our study suggested that mutations in TGF-β pathway may be associated with positive immune regulation and better efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bing Qian
- Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Cancer Institute, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Ming
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhengyi Zhao
- The Medical Department, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengqing Yan
- The Medical Department, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaochen Zhao
- The Medical Department, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Shiqing Chen
- The Medical Department, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Yongmei Yin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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