1
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Shanley M, Daher M, Dou J, Li S, Basar R, Rafei H, Dede M, Gumin J, Pantaleόn Garcίa J, Nunez Cortes AK, He S, Jones CM, Acharya S, Fowlkes NW, Xiong D, Singh S, Shaim H, Hicks SC, Liu B, Jain A, Zaman MF, Miao Q, Li Y, Uprety N, Liu E, Muniz-Feliciano L, Deyter GM, Mohanty V, Zhang P, Evans SE, Shpall EJ, Lang FF, Chen K, Rezvani K. Interleukin-21 engineering enhances NK cell activity against glioblastoma via CEBPD. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:1450-1466.e11. [PMID: 39137729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer with limited therapeutic options. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells with strong anti-tumor activity and may offer a promising treatment strategy for GBM. We compared the anti-GBM activity of NK cells engineered to express interleukin (IL)-15 or IL-21. Using multiple in vivo models, IL-21 NK cells were superior to IL-15 NK cells both in terms of safety and long-term anti-tumor activity, with locoregionally administered IL-15 NK cells proving toxic and ineffective at tumor control. IL-21 NK cells displayed a unique chromatin accessibility signature, with CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP), especially CEBPD, serving as key transcription factors regulating their enhanced function. Deletion of CEBPD resulted in loss of IL-21 NK cell potency while its overexpression increased NK cell long-term cytotoxicity and metabolic fitness. These results suggest that IL-21, through C/EBP transcription factors, drives epigenetic reprogramming of NK cells, enhancing their anti-tumor efficacy against GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Shanley
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - May Daher
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Jinzhuang Dou
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Sufang Li
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Rafet Basar
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Hind Rafei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Merve Dede
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Joy Gumin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Jezreel Pantaleόn Garcίa
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Ana Karen Nunez Cortes
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Shan He
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Corry M Jones
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Sunil Acharya
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Natalie W Fowlkes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Donghai Xiong
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Sanjay Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Hila Shaim
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Samantha Claire Hicks
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Abhinav Jain
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Mohammad Fayyad Zaman
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Qi Miao
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Nadima Uprety
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Enli Liu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Luis Muniz-Feliciano
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Gary M Deyter
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Vakul Mohanty
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Patrick Zhang
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Scott E Evans
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Frederick F Lang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Ken Chen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA.
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2
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Shrestha N, Dee MJ, Chaturvedi P, Leclerc GM, Mathyer M, Dufour C, Arthur L, Becker-Hapak M, Foster M, McClain E, Pena NV, Kage K, Zhu X, George V, Liu B, Egan J, Echeverri C, Wang M, You L, Kong L, Li L, Berrien-Elliott MM, Cooper ML, Fehniger TA, Rhode PR, Wong HC. A "Prime and Expand" strategy using the multifunctional fusion proteins to generate memory-like NK cells for cell therapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:179. [PMID: 38960949 PMCID: PMC11222348 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03765-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) using memory-like (ML) natural killer (NK) cells, generated through overnight ex vivo activation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18, has shown promise for treating hematologic malignancies. We recently reported that a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9201, comprising IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 domains could replace individual cytokines for priming human ML NK cell programming ("Prime" step). However, this approach does not include ex vivo expansion, thereby limiting the ability to test different doses and schedules. Here, we report the design and generation of a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9206, consisting of human IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 cytokines. We observed > 300-fold expansion for HCW9201-primed human NK cells cultured for 14 days with HCW9206 and HCW9101, an IgG1 antibody, recognizing the scaffold domain of HCW9206 ("Expand" step). This expansion was dependent on both HCW9206 cytokines and interactions of the IgG1 mAb with CD16 receptors on NK cells. The resulting "Prime and Expand" ML NK cells exhibited elevated metabolic capacity, stable epigenetic IFNG promoter demethylation, enhanced antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo, and superior persistence in NSG mice. Thus, the "Prime and Expand" strategy represents a simple feeder cell-free approach to streamline manufacturing of clinical-grade ML NK cells to support multidose and off-the-shelf ACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Shrestha
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Michael J Dee
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | - Gilles M Leclerc
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | | | | | - Michelle Becker-Hapak
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Mark Foster
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ethan McClain
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | | | - Karen Kage
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Xiaoyun Zhu
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Varghese George
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Bai Liu
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Jack Egan
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | | | - Meng Wang
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Lijing You
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Lin Kong
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Liying Li
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Melissa M Berrien-Elliott
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | | | - Todd A Fehniger
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Peter R Rhode
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA
| | - Hing C Wong
- HCW Biologics Inc., 2929 N. Commerce Parkway, Miramar, FL, 33025, USA.
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3
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Polychronopoulos PA, Bedoya-Reina OC, Johnsen JI. The Neuroblastoma Microenvironment, Heterogeneity and Immunotherapeutic Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1863. [PMID: 38791942 PMCID: PMC11119056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101863] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is a peripheral nervous system tumor that almost exclusively occurs in young children. Although intensified treatment modalities have led to increased patient survival, the prognosis for patients with high-risk disease is still around 50%, signifying neuroblastoma as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Neuroblastoma is an embryonal tumor and is shaped by its origin from cells within the neural crest. Hence, neuroblastoma usually presents with a low mutational burden and is, in the majority of cases, driven by epigenetically deregulated transcription networks. The recent development of Omic techniques has given us detailed knowledge of neuroblastoma evolution, heterogeneity, and plasticity, as well as intra- and intercellular molecular communication networks within the neuroblastoma microenvironment. Here, we discuss the potential of these recent discoveries with emphasis on new treatment modalities, including immunotherapies which hold promise for better future treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Alkinoos Polychronopoulos
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, 11883 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.A.P.); (O.C.B.-R.)
| | - Oscar C. Bedoya-Reina
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, 11883 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.A.P.); (O.C.B.-R.)
- School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, 70182 Örebro, Sweden
| | - John Inge Johnsen
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, 11883 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.A.P.); (O.C.B.-R.)
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4
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Isvoranu G, Chiritoiu-Butnaru M. Therapeutic potential of interleukin-21 in cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369743. [PMID: 38638431 PMCID: PMC11024325 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369743] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is an immunostimulatory cytokine which belongs to the common gamma-chain family of cytokines. It plays an import role in the development, differentiation, proliferation, and activation of immune cells, in particular T and natural killer (NK) cells. Since its discovery in 2000, IL-21 has been shown to regulate both adaptive and immune responses associates with key role in antiviral and antitumor responses. Recent advances indicate IL-21 as a promising target for cancer treatment and encouraging results were obtained in preclinical studies which investigated the potency of IL-21 alone or in combination with other therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitory molecules, oncolytic virotherapy, and adoptive cell transfer. Furthermore, IL-21 showed antitumor effects in the treatment of patients with advanced cancer, with minimal side effects in several clinical trials. In the present review, we will outline the recent progress in IL-21 research, highlighting the potential of IL-21 based therapy as single agent or in combination with other drugs to enhance cancer treatment efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gheorghita Isvoranu
- Department of Animal Husbandry,” Victor Babeș” National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marioara Chiritoiu-Butnaru
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
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5
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Maia A, Tarannum M, Lérias JR, Piccinelli S, Borrego LM, Maeurer M, Romee R, Castillo-Martin M. Building a Better Defense: Expanding and Improving Natural Killer Cells for Adoptive Cell Therapy. Cells 2024; 13:451. [PMID: 38474415 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have gained attention as a promising adoptive cell therapy platform for their potential to improve cancer treatments. NK cells offer distinct advantages over T-cells, including major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I)-independent tumor recognition and low risk of toxicity, even in an allogeneic setting. Despite this tremendous potential, challenges persist, such as limited in vivo persistence, reduced tumor infiltration, and low absolute NK cell numbers. This review outlines several strategies aiming to overcome these challenges. The developed strategies include optimizing NK cell expansion methods and improving NK cell antitumor responses by cytokine stimulation and genetic manipulations. Using K562 cells expressing membrane IL-15 or IL-21 with or without additional activating ligands like 4-1BBL allows "massive" NK cell expansion and makes multiple cell dosing and "off-the-shelf" efforts feasible. Further improvements in NK cell function can be reached by inducing memory-like NK cells, developing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK cells, or isolating NK-cell-based tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Memory-like NK cells demonstrate higher in vivo persistence and cytotoxicity, with early clinical trials demonstrating safety and promising efficacy. Recent trials using CAR-NK cells have also demonstrated a lack of any major toxicity, including cytokine release syndrome, and, yet, promising clinical activity. Recent data support that the presence of TIL-NK cells is associated with improved overall patient survival in different types of solid tumors such as head and neck, colorectal, breast, and gastric carcinomas, among the most significant. In conclusion, this review presents insights into the diverse strategies available for NK cell expansion, including the roles played by various cytokines, feeder cells, and culture material in influencing the activation phenotype, telomere length, and cytotoxic potential of expanded NK cells. Notably, genetically modified K562 cells have demonstrated significant efficacy in promoting NK cell expansion. Furthermore, culturing NK cells with IL-2 and IL-15 has been shown to improve expansion rates, while the presence of IL-12 and IL-21 has been linked to enhanced cytotoxic function. Overall, this review provides an overview of NK cell expansion methodologies, highlighting the current landscape of clinical trials and the key advancements to enhance NK-cell-based adoptive cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Maia
- Molecular and Experimental Pathology Laboratory, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
- NK Cell Gene Manipulation and Therapy Laboratory, Division of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- NOVA Medical School, NOVA University of Lisbon, 1099-085 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mubin Tarannum
- NK Cell Gene Manipulation and Therapy Laboratory, Division of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joana R Lérias
- ImmunoTherapy/ImmunoSurgery, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sara Piccinelli
- NK Cell Gene Manipulation and Therapy Laboratory, Division of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Luis Miguel Borrego
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas (FCM), NOVA University of Lisbon, 1099-085 Lisbon, Portugal
- Immunoallergy Department, Hospital da Luz, 1600-209 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Markus Maeurer
- ImmunoTherapy/ImmunoSurgery, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
- I Medical Clinic, University of Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Rizwan Romee
- NK Cell Gene Manipulation and Therapy Laboratory, Division of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mireia Castillo-Martin
- Molecular and Experimental Pathology Laboratory, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
- Pathology Service, Champalimaud Clinical Center, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
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6
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Li X, Wu M, Lu J, Yu J, Chen D. Interleukin-21 as an adjuvant in cancer immunotherapy: Current advances and future directions. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189084. [PMID: 38354828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189084] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, it's well-recognized that a considerable proportion of patients fail to benefit from immunotherapy, and to improve immunotherapy response is clinically urgent. Insufficient immune infiltration and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) are main contributors to immunotherapy resistance. Thus sustaining functional self-renewal capacity for immune cells and subverting immune-suppressive signals are potential strategies for boosting the efficacy of immunotherapy. Interleukin-21 (IL-21), a crucial cytokine, which could enhance cytotoxic function of immune cells and reduces immunosuppressive cells enrichment in TME, shows promising orientations as an immunoadjuvant in tumor immunotherapy. This review focuses on IL-21 in cancer treatment, including function and mechanisms of IL-21, preclinical and clinical studies, and future directions for IL-21-assisted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China; Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinming Yu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China; Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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7
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Wu WC, Shiu C, Tong TK, Leung SO, Hui CW. Suppression of NK Cell Activation by JAK3 Inhibition: Implication in the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases. J Immunol Res 2023; 2023:8924603. [PMID: 38106519 PMCID: PMC10723930 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8924603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell is an essential cytotoxic lymphocyte in our innate immunity. Activation of NK cells is of paramount importance in defending against pathogens, suppressing autoantibody production and regulating other immune cells. Common gamma chain (γc) cytokines, including IL-2, IL-15, and IL-21, are defined as essential regulators for NK cell homeostasis and development. However, it is inconclusive whether γc cytokine-driven NK cell activation plays a protective or pathogenic role in the development of autoimmunity. In this study, we investigate and correlate the differential effects of γc cytokines in NK cell expansion and activation. IL-2 and IL-15 are mainly responsible for NK cell activation, while IL-21 preferentially stimulates NK cell proliferation. Blockade of Janus tyrosine kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway by either JAK inhibitors or antibodies targeting γc receptor subunits reverses the γc cytokine-induced NK cell activation, leading to suppression of its autoimmunity-like phenotype in vitro. These results underline the mechanisms of how γc cytokines trigger autoimmune phenotype in NK cells as a potential target to autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Chung Wu
- SinoMab BioScience Limited, Units 303 and 305 to 307, No. 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Carol Shiu
- SinoMab BioScience Limited, Units 303 and 305 to 307, No. 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Tak Keung Tong
- SinoMab BioScience Limited, Units 303 and 305 to 307, No. 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Shui On Leung
- SinoMab BioScience Limited, Units 303 and 305 to 307, No. 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chin Wai Hui
- SinoMab BioScience Limited, Units 303 and 305 to 307, No. 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong
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8
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Jacob M, Wiedemann S, Brücher D, Pieper NM, Birkhold M, Särchen V, Jeroch J, Demes MC, Gretser S, Braun Y, Gradhand E, Rothweiler F, Michaelis M, Cinatl J, Vogler M. Increased MCL1 dependency leads to new applications of BH3-mimetics in drug-resistant neuroblastoma. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1667-1678. [PMID: 37723317 PMCID: PMC10646009 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02430-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroblastoma is a paediatric cancer that is characterised by poor prognosis for chemoresistant disease, highlighting the need for better treatment options. Here, we asked whether BH3-mimetics inhibiting BCL2 proteins may eliminate chemoresistant neuroblastoma cells. METHODS We utilised cisplatin-adapted neuroblastoma cell lines as well as patient tissues before and after relapse to study alterations of BCL2 proteins upon chemoresistance. RESULTS In a direct comparison of cisplatin-resistant cells we identified a prominent loss of sensitivity to BCL2/BCL-XL inhibitors that is associated with an increase in MCL1 dependency and high expression of MCL1 in patient tumour tissues. Screening of FDA-approved anti-cancer drugs in chemoresistant cells identified therapeutics that may be beneficial in combination with the clinically tested BH3-mimetic ABT263, but no synergistic drug interactions with the selective MCL1 inhibitor S63845. Further exploration of potential treatment options for chemoresistant neuroblastoma identified immunotherapy based on NK cells as highly promising, since NK cells are able to efficiently kill both parental and chemoresistant cells. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight that the application of BH3-mimetics may differ between first line treatment and relapsed disease. Combination of NK cell-based immunotherapy with BH3-mimetics may further increase killing of chemoresistant neuroblastoma, outlining a new treatment strategy for relapsed neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Jacob
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sara Wiedemann
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniela Brücher
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nadja M Pieper
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Moni Birkhold
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Vinzenz Särchen
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jan Jeroch
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Melanie C Demes
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen Gretser
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Yannick Braun
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elise Gradhand
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Rothweiler
- Institute for Medical Virology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dr. Petra Joh-Forschungshaus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martin Michaelis
- Dr. Petra Joh-Forschungshaus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Jindrich Cinatl
- Institute for Medical Virology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dr. Petra Joh-Forschungshaus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Meike Vogler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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9
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Chang Y, Jin G, Luo W, Luo Q, Jung J, Hummel SN, Torregrosa-Allen S, Elzey BD, Low PS, Lian XL, Bao X. Engineered human pluripotent stem cell-derived natural killer cells with PD-L1 responsive immunological memory for enhanced immunotherapeutic efficacy. Bioact Mater 2023; 27:168-180. [PMID: 37091063 PMCID: PMC10113709 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered natural killer (NK) cells have shown promise in treating various cancers. However, limited immunological memory and access to sufficient numbers of allogenic donor cells have hindered their broader preclinical and clinical applications. Here, we first assess eight different CAR constructs that use an anti-PD-L1 nanobody and/or universal anti-fluorescein (FITC) single-chain variable fragment (scFv) to enhance antigen-specific proliferation and anti-tumor cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells against heterogenous solid tumors. We next genetically engineer human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) with optimized CARs and differentiate them into functional dual CAR-NK cells. The tumor microenvironment responsive anti-PD-L1 CAR effectively promoted hPSC-NK cell proliferation and cytotoxicity through antigen-dependent activation of phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) and pSTAT5 signaling pathways via an intracellular truncated IL-2 receptor β-chain (ΔIL-2Rβ) and STAT3-binding tyrosine-X-X-glutamine (YXXQ) motif. Anti-tumor activities of PD-L1-induced memory-like hPSC-NK cells were further boosted by administering a FITC-folate bi-specific adapter that bridges between a programmable anti-FITC CAR and folate receptor alpha-expressing breast tumor cells. Collectively, our hPSC CAR-NK engineering platform is modular and could constitute a realistic strategy to manufacture off-the-shelf CAR-NK cells with immunological memory-like phenotype for targeted immunotherapy.
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10
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Wang B, Wang H, Yue L, Chen Q, Dong J, Jiang T. Combination therapy of irreversible electroporation and cytokine-induced killer cells for treating mice bearing panc02 pancreatic-cancer xenografts. Biochem Biophys Rep 2023; 35:101547. [PMID: 37745985 PMCID: PMC10514433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101547] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the antitumor effects and potent mechanism of cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells combined with irreversible electroporation (IRE) via Panc02 cell-bearing mouse model in vivo. CIK cells were isolated from the spleens of Panc02 pancreatic-cancer (PC) subcutaneous-xenograft model and the proportion of different lymphocytes was also determined. The antitumor effect of the combination of IRE and CIK cells in a PC subcutaneous-xenograft model was also investigated. The proportion of cells that were positive for CD3+CD8+ and the proportion of CD3+CD56+ cells were both significantly increased after 21 days of in vitro culture. Combined treatment of IRE and CIK cell significantly inhibited tumor growth and increased the survival rate of Panc02 cell-bearing mice. Furthermore, infiltration of lymphocytes into tumor tissue was significantly increased by this combination therapy compared with the untreated group or monotherapy group. In addition, IRE significantly enhanced the expression of chemokine receptors elicited by CIK cells. In conclusion, IRE combined with CIK cells showed superior antitumor efficacy in a PC xenograft model, which we attributed to the promotion of lymphocytic infiltration, as well as to upregulation of chemokine receptor expression and the regulators of CIK cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Wang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Huiyang Wang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lan Yue
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Zhejiang CuraWay Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Junjie Dong
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Tian'an Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Key Laboratory of Pulsed Power Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310023, China
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11
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Zhao X, Lin M, Huang X. Current status and future perspective of natural killer cell therapy for cancer. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2023; 3:305-320. [PMID: 38235405 PMCID: PMC10790210 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells possess innate abilities to effectively eliminate cancer cells. However, because of difficulties of proliferation and easy to be induced dysfunction in the setting of cancer post NK cell therapy, the curative effect of NK cell infusion has been constrained and not been widely applicable in clinical practice. The rapid development of biotechnology has promoted the development of NK cell therapy for cancer treatment. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive analysis of the current status and future prospects of NK cell therapy for cancer, focusing on the biological characteristics of NK cells, as well as strategies to enhance their targeting capabilities and overcome tumor immune suppression within the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Zhao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Minghao Lin
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Huang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
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12
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Krawczyk E, Kitlińska J. Preclinical Models of Neuroblastoma-Current Status and Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3314. [PMID: 37444423 PMCID: PMC10340830 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133314] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Preclinical in vitro and in vivo models remain indispensable tools in cancer research. These classic models, including two- and three-dimensional cell culture techniques and animal models, are crucial for basic and translational studies. However, each model has its own limitations and typically does not fully recapitulate the course of the human disease. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of novel, advanced systems that can allow for efficient evaluation of the mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression, more accurately reflect the disease pathophysiology and complexity, and effectively inform therapeutic decisions for patients. Preclinical models are especially important for rare cancers, such as neuroblastoma, where the availability of patient-derived specimens that could be used for potential therapy evaluation and screening is limited. Neuroblastoma modeling is further complicated by the disease heterogeneity. In this review, we present the current status of preclinical models for neuroblastoma research, discuss their development and characteristics emphasizing strengths and limitations, and describe the necessity of the development of novel, more advanced and clinically relevant approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Krawczyk
- Department of Pathology, Center for Cell Reprogramming, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Joanna Kitlińska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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13
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Kim IY, Kim HY, Song HW, Park JO, Choi YH, Choi E. Functional enhancement of exosomes derived from NK cells by IL-15 and IL-21 synergy against hepatocellular carcinoma cells: The cytotoxicity and apoptosis in vitro study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16962. [PMID: 37484408 PMCID: PMC10361042 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are released by various cells, including natural killer (NK) cells and transport signaling molecules for the intercellular communication. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as primary liver cancer, is often inoperable and difficult to accurate diagnosis. Notably, the prognosis and underlying mechanisms of HCC are not fully understood. Exosomes-derived NK cells (NK-exos) express unique cytotoxic proteins with a killing ability in tumors and can easily penetrate tumor tissues to improve their targeting ability. NK cell functions, inducing cellular cytotoxicity are modulated by cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-15 and IL-21. However, the mechanisms and effects of cytokines-stimulated NK-exos for the treatment of liver cancer, including HCC, are not well known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the synergistic anti-tumor effects of NK-exos stimulated with IL-15 and IL-21 (NK-exosIL-15/21) in Hep3B cells. Our findings revealed that NK-exosIL-15/21 expressed cytotoxic proteins (perforin and granzyme B) and contained typical exosome markers (CD9 and CD63) within the size range of 100-150 nm. Moreover, we demonstrated that NK-exosIL-15/21 induced the enhancement of cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity in Hep3B cells by activating the specific pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax, cleaved caspase 3, cleaved PARP, perforin, and granzyme B) and inhibiting the anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). In summary, our results suggest that NK-exosIL-15/21 regulate strong anti-tumor effects of HCC cells, by increasing the cytotoxicity and apoptosis through the activation of specific cytotoxic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Young Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Yong Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong-woo Song
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Oh Park
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - You Hee Choi
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunpyo Choi
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
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14
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Characterization of BV6-Induced Sensitization to the NK Cell Killing of Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma Spheroids. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060906. [PMID: 36980247 PMCID: PMC10047333 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the overall survival in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) has increased over the last decades, the most aggressive subtype of alveolar RMS is in dire need of novel treatment strategies. RMS cells evade cell death induction and immune control by increasing the expression of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), which can be exploited and targeted with stimulation with Smac mimetics. Here, we used the Smac mimetic BV6 to re-sensitize RMS spheroids to cell death, which increased killing induced by natural killer (NK) cells. Single BV6 treatment of RMS spheroids did not reduce spheroidal growth. However, we observed significant spheroidal decomposition upon BV6 pre-treatment combined with NK cell co-cultivation. Molecularly, IAPs s are rapidly degraded by BV6, which activates NF-κB signal transduction pathways in RMS spheroids. RNA sequencing analysis validated NF-κB activation and identified a plethora of BV6-regulated genes. Additionally, BV6 released caspases from IAP-mediated inhibition. Here, caspase-8 might play a major role, as knockdown experiments resulted in decreased NK cell-mediated attack. Taken together, we improved the understanding of the BV6 mechanism of RMS spheroid sensitization to cytotoxic immune cells, which could be suitable for the development of novel combinatory cellular immunotherapy with Smac mimetics.
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15
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Ash S, Askenasy N. Immunotherapy for neuroblastoma by hematopoietic cell transplantation and post-transplant immunomodulation. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 185:103956. [PMID: 36893946 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.103956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma represents a relatively common childhood tumor that imposes therapeutic difficulties. High risk neuroblastoma patients have poor prognosis, display limited response to radiochemotherapy and may be treated by hematopoietic cell transplantation. Allogeneic and haploidentical transplants have the distinct advantage of reinstitution of immune surveillance, reinforced by antigenic barriers. The key factors favorable to ignition of potent anti-tumor reactions are transition to adaptive immunity, recovery from lymphopenia and removal of inhibitory signals that inactivate immune cells at the local and systemic levels. Post-transplant immunomodulation may further foster anti-tumor reactivity, with positive but transient impact of infusions of lymphocytes and natural killer cells both from the donor, the recipient or third party. The most promising approaches include introduction of antigen-presenting cells in early post-transplant stages and neutralization of inhibitory signals. Further studies will likely shed light on the nature and actions of suppressor factors within tumor stroma and at the systemic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shifra Ash
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel; Frankel Laboratory of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel.
| | - Nadir Askenasy
- Frankel Laboratory of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
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16
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Jin G, Chang Y, Harris J, Bao X. Adoptive Immunotherapy: A Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Perspective. Cells Tissues Organs 2023; 212:439-467. [PMID: 36599319 PMCID: PMC10318121 DOI: 10.1159/000528838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed significant advances in cancer immunotherapy, particularly through the adoptive transfer of engineered T cells in treating advanced leukemias and lymphomas. Despite these excitements, challenges remain with scale, cost, and ensuring quality control of engineered immune cells, including chimeric antigen receptor T, natural killer cells, and macrophages. The advent of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, has transformed immunotherapy by providing a scalable, off-the-shelf source of any desired immune cells for basic research, translational studies, and clinical interventions. The tractability of hPSCs for gene editing could also generate homogenous, universal cellular products with custom functionality for individual or combinatory therapeutic applications. This review will explore various immune cell types whose directed differentiation from hPSCs has been achieved and recently adapted for translational immunotherapy and feature forward-looking bioengineering techniques shaping the future of the stem cell field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyuhyung Jin
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Yun Chang
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Jackson Harris
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Xiaoping Bao
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
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17
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Gudauskaitė G, Kairienė I, Ivaškienė T, Rascon J, Mobasheri A. Therapeutic Perspectives for the Clinical Application of Umbilical Cord Hematopoietic and Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Overcoming Complications Arising After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1409:111-126. [PMID: 35995905 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the therapeutic features of umbilical cord blood (UCB) cells as a source for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) in adult and child populations to treat malignant and nonmalignant hematologic diseases, genetic disorders, or pathologies of the immune system, when standard treatment (e.g., chemotherapy) is not effective or clinically contraindicated. In this article, we summarize the immunological properties and the advantages and disadvantages of using UCB stem cells and discuss a variety of treatment outcomes using different sources of stem cells from different donors both in adults and pediatric population. We also highlight the critical properties (total nucleated cell dose depending on HLA compatibility) of UCB cells that reach better survival rates, reveal the advantages of double versus single cord blood unit transplantation, and present recommendations from the most recent studies. Moreover, we summarize the mechanism of action and potential benefit of mesenchymal umbilical cord cells and indicate the most common posttransplantation complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Gudauskaitė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ignė Kairienė
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tatjana Ivaškienė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jelena Rascon
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ali Mobasheri
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.
- Research Unit of Medical Imaging, Physics and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Public Health Aspects of Musculoskeletal Health and Aging, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium.
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18
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Al-Kadhimi Z, Callahan M, Fehniger T, Cole KE, Vose J, Hinrichs S. Enrichment of innate immune cells from PBMC followed by triple cytokine activation for adoptive immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109387. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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19
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Jeong S, Kim YG, Kim S, Kim K. Enhanced anticancer efficacy of primed natural killer cells via coacervate-mediated exogenous interleukin-15 delivery. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:5968-5979. [PMID: 36048163 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00876a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Effective exogenous delivery of interleukin (IL)-15 to natural killer (NK) cells with subsequent anticancer efficacy could be a promising immune cell-based cancer immunotherapy. For the protection of encapsulated cargo IL-15 while maintaining its bioactivity under physiological conditions, we utilized a coacervate (Coa) consisting of a cationic methoxy polyethylene glycol-poly(ethylene arginyl aspartate diglyceride) (mPEG-PEAD) polymer, anionic counterpart heparin, and cargo IL-15. mPEGylation into the backbone cation effectively preserved the colloidal stability of Coa in harsh environments and enhanced the protection of cargo IL-15 than normal Coa without mPEGylation. Proliferation and anticancer efficacy of primed NK cells through co-culture with multiple cancer cell lines were enhanced in the mPEG-Coa group due to the maintained bioactivity of cargo IL-15 during the ex vivo expansion of NK cells. These facilitated functions of NK cells were also supported by the increased expression of mRNAs related to anticancer effects of NK cells, including cytotoxic granules, death ligands, anti-apoptotic proteins, and activation receptors. In summary, our Coa-mediated exogenous IL-15 delivery could be an effective ex vivo priming technique for NK cells with sustained immune activation that can effectively facilitate its usage for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehwan Jeong
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young Guk Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sungjun Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyobum Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Valeri A, García-Ortiz A, Castellano E, Córdoba L, Maroto-Martín E, Encinas J, Leivas A, Río P, Martínez-López J. Overcoming tumor resistance mechanisms in CAR-NK cell therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:953849. [PMID: 35990652 PMCID: PMC9381932 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.953849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the impressive results of autologous CAR-T cell therapy in refractory B lymphoproliferative diseases, CAR-NK immunotherapy emerges as a safer, faster, and cost-effective approach with no signs of severe toxicities as described for CAR-T cells. Permanently scrutinized for its efficacy, recent promising data in CAR-NK clinical trials point out the achievement of deep, high-quality responses, thus confirming its potential clinical use. Although CAR-NK cell therapy is not significantly affected by the loss or downregulation of its CAR tumor target, as in the case of CAR-T cell, a plethora of common additional tumor intrinsic or extrinsic mechanisms that could also disable NK cell function have been described. Therefore, considering lessons learned from CAR-T cell therapy, the emergence of CAR-NK cell therapy resistance can also be envisioned. In this review we highlight the processes that could be involved in its development, focusing on cytokine addiction and potential fratricide during manufacturing, poor tumor trafficking, exhaustion within the tumor microenvironment (TME), and NK cell short in vivo persistence on account of the limited expansion, replicative senescence, and rejection by patient’s immune system after lymphodepletion recovery. Finally, we outline new actively explored alternatives to overcome these resistance mechanisms, with a special emphasis on CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genetic engineering approaches, a promising platform to optimize CAR-NK cell function to eradicate refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Valeri
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena García-Ortiz
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Castellano
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Córdoba
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Maroto-Martín
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jessica Encinas
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Leivas
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Río
- Division of Hematopoietic Innovative Therapies, Biomedical Innovation Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Martínez-López
- Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (H12O-CNIO) Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hematology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre-Universidad Complutense, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Joaquín Martínez-López,
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21
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Bexte T, Alzubi J, Reindl LM, Wendel P, Schubert R, Salzmann-Manrique E, von Metzler I, Cathomen T, Ullrich E. CRISPR-Cas9 based gene editing of the immune checkpoint NKG2A enhances NK cell mediated cytotoxicity against multiple myeloma. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2081415. [PMID: 35694192 PMCID: PMC9176243 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2081415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are known for their high intrinsic cytotoxic capacity, and the possibility to be applied as ‘off-the-shelf’ product makes them highly attractive for cell-based immunotherapies. In patients with multiple myeloma (MM), an elevated number of NK cells has been correlated with higher overall-survival rate. However, NK cell function can be impaired by upregulation of inhibitory receptors, such as the immune checkpoint NKG2A. Here, we developed a CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing protocol that allowed us to knockout about 80% of the NKG2A-encoding killer cell lectin like receptor C1 (KLRC1) locus in primary NK cells. In-depth phenotypic analysis confirmed significant reduction in NKG2A protein expression. Importantly, the KLRC1-edited NK cells showed significantly increased cytotoxicity against primary MM cells isolated from a small cohort of patients, and maintained the NK cell-specific cytokine production. In conclusion, KLRC1-editing in primary NK cells has the prospect of overcoming immune checkpoint inhibition in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bexte
- Childrens’ Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt-Marburg, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jamal Alzubi
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Gene Therapy, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Reindl
- Childrens’ Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Philipp Wendel
- Childrens’ Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ralf Schubert
- Childrens’ Hospital, Division for Allergy, Pneumology and Cystic Fibrosis, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Emilia Salzmann-Manrique
- Childrens’ Hospital, Department for Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ivana von Metzler
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Toni Cathomen
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Gene Therapy, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Childrens’ Hospital, Experimental Immunology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt-Marburg, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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22
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Tarannum M, Romee R, Shapiro RM. Innovative Strategies to Improve the Clinical Application of NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:859177. [PMID: 35401529 PMCID: PMC8990319 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.859177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells constitute a part of the innate immune system that mediates an effective immune response towards virus-infected and malignant cells. In recent years, research has focused on exploring and advancing NK cells as an active immunotherapy platform. Despite major advances, there are several key challenges that need to be addressed for the effective translation of NK cell research to clinical applications. This review highlights some of these challenges and the innovative strategies being developed to overcome them, including in vitro expansion, in vivo persistence, infiltration to the tumor site, and prevention of exhaustion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubin Tarannum
- Division of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rizwan Romee
- Division of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Roman M Shapiro
- Division of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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23
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Fang F, Xie S, Chen M, Li Y, Yue J, Ma J, Shu X, He Y, Xiao W, Tian Z. Advances in NK cell production. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:460-481. [PMID: 34983953 PMCID: PMC8975878 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00808-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on natural killer (NK) cells is a promising approach for treating a variety of cancers. Unlike T cells, NK cells recognize target cells via a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent mechanism and, without being sensitized, kill the cells directly. Several strategies for obtaining large quantities of NK cells with high purity and high cytotoxicity have been developed. These strategies include the use of cytokine-antibody fusions, feeder cells or membrane particles to stimulate the proliferation of NK cells and enhance their cytotoxicity. Various materials, including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and NK cell lines, have been used as sources to generate NK cells for immunotherapy. Moreover, genetic modification technologies to improve the proliferation of NK cells have also been developed to enhance the functions of NK cells. Here, we summarize the recent advances in expansion strategies with or without genetic manipulation of NK cells derived from various cellular sources. We also discuss the closed, automated and GMP-controlled large-scale expansion systems used for NK cells and possible future NK cell-based immunotherapy products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Siqi Xie
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Minhua Chen
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Yutong Li
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Jingjing Yue
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Xun Shu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Yongge He
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Weihua Xiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Zhigang Tian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
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24
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Rethacker L, Boy M, Bisio V, Roussin F, Denizeau J, Vincent-Salomon A, Borcoman E, Sedlik C, Piaggio E, Toubert A, Dulphy N, Caignard A. Innate lymphoid cells: NK and cytotoxic ILC3 subsets infiltrate metastatic breast cancer lymph nodes. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2057396. [PMID: 35371620 PMCID: PMC8973349 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2057396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) – which include cytotoxic Natural Killer (NK) cells and helper-type ILC – are important regulators of tissue immune homeostasis, with possible roles in tumor surveillance. We analyzed ILC and their functionality in human lymph nodes (LN). In LN, NK cells and ILC3 were the prominent subpopulations. Among the ILC3s, we identified a CD56+/ILC3 subset with a phenotype close to ILC3 but also expressing cytotoxicity genes shared with NK. In tumor-draining LNs (TD-LNs) and tumor samples from breast cancer (BC) patients, NK cells were prominent, and proportions of ILC3 subsets were low. In tumors and TD-LN, NK cells display reduced levels of NCR (Natural cytotoxicity receptors), despite high transcript levels and included a small subset CD127− CD56− NK cells with reduced function. Activated by cytokines CD56+/ILC3 cells from donor and patients LN acquired cytotoxic capacity and produced IFNg. In TD-LN, all cytokine activated ILC populations produced TNFα in response to BC cell line. Analyses of cytotoxic and helper ILC indicate a switch toward NK cells in TD-LN. The local tumor microenvironment inhibited NK cell functions through downregulation of NCR, but cytokine stimulation restored their functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Rethacker
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Boy
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Valeria Bisio
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - France Roussin
- Service d’Anesthésie-Réanimation, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Jordan Denizeau
- INSERM U932, Département de Recherche Translationelle, Institut Curie, Université de Recherche Paris Sciences & Lettres (PSL), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France
| | - Anne Vincent-Salomon
- Diagnostic and Theranostic Medicine Division, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Edith Borcoman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Curie, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Christine Sedlik
- INSERM U932, Département de Recherche Translationelle, Institut Curie, Université de Recherche Paris Sciences & Lettres (PSL), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France
| | - Eliane Piaggio
- INSERM U932, Département de Recherche Translationelle, Institut Curie, Université de Recherche Paris Sciences & Lettres (PSL), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris, France
| | - Antoine Toubert
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris (AP–HP), Hôpital Saint-Louis, Laboratoire d’Immunologie et Histocompatibilité, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Dulphy
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris (AP–HP), Hôpital Saint-Louis, Laboratoire d’Immunologie et Histocompatibilité, Paris, France
| | - Anne Caignard
- INSERM U1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
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25
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Venglar O, Bago JR, Motais B, Hajek R, Jelinek T. Natural Killer Cells in the Malignant Niche of Multiple Myeloma. Front Immunol 2022; 12:816499. [PMID: 35087536 PMCID: PMC8787055 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.816499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells represent a subset of CD3- CD7+ CD56+/dim lymphocytes with cytotoxic and suppressor activity against virus-infected cells and cancer cells. The overall potential of NK cells has brought them to the spotlight of targeted immunotherapy in solid and hematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM). Nonetheless, NK cells are subjected to a variety of cancer defense mechanisms, leading to impaired maturation, chemotaxis, target recognition, and killing. This review aims to summarize the available and most current knowledge about cancer-related impairment of NK cell function occurring in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondrej Venglar
- Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Hematooncology Clinic, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Julio Rodriguez Bago
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Hematooncology Clinic, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Benjamin Motais
- Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Roman Hajek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Hematooncology Clinic, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Tomas Jelinek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.,Hematooncology Clinic, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
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26
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Rubio-Azpeitia E, Pérez-Corral AM, Dorado-Herrero N, Monsalvo S, Pérez-Balsera G, Fernández-Santos ME, Kwon M, Oarbeascoa G, Bastos-Oreiro M, Falero C, Pascual Izquierdo C, Muñoz-Martínez C, Pérez-Martínez A, Diez-Martin JL, Anguita J. Clinical grade production of IL-15 stimulated NK cells for early infusion in adult AML patients undergoing haploidentical stem cell transplantation with post-transplant cyclophosphamide. Transfusion 2022; 62:374-385. [PMID: 35023148 DOI: 10.1111/trf.16790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is the treatment of choice for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation (Haplo-HSCT) is commonly used for those AML patients who need a timely transplant and do not have a suitable matched donor, but relapse rates are still high, and improvements are needed. Adoptive immunotherapy using natural killer cells (NK cells) could be a promising tool to improved Haplo-HSCT but, to date, no optimal infusion and manufacturing protocols have been developed. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS In this study, we describe a quick and reproducible protocol for clinical-grade production of haploidentical donor NK cells using double immunomagnetic depletion and enrichment protocol and overnight IL-15 stimulation. RESULTS Thus, we have obtained 8 viable and functional NK cell products that have been safely infused to five AML patients undergoing unmanipulated Haplo-HSCT. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrate the safety and feasibility of manufactured NK IL15 cells obtained from an adult allogeneic donor in the setting of haploidentical transplantation for AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Rubio-Azpeitia
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Maria Pérez-Corral
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nieves Dorado-Herrero
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Monsalvo
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Pérez-Balsera
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Eugenia Fernández-Santos
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain.,ATMPs Production Unit-GMP Facility, IISGM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mi Kwon
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gillen Oarbeascoa
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mariana Bastos-Oreiro
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Falero
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Pascual Izquierdo
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Muñoz-Martínez
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Pérez-Martínez
- Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Department, La Paz University Hospital, La Paz Health Research Institute (idiPaz), Madrid, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Diez-Martin
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Anguita
- Hematology department, Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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27
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Särchen V, Shanmugalingam S, Kehr S, Reindl LM, Greze V, Wiedemann S, Boedicker C, Jacob M, Bankov K, Becker N, Wehner S, Theilen TM, Gretser S, Gradhand E, Kummerow C, Ullrich E, Vogler M. Pediatric multicellular tumor spheroid models illustrate a therapeutic potential by combining BH3 mimetics with Natural Killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:11. [PMID: 35013156 PMCID: PMC8748928 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The induction of apoptosis is a direct way to eliminate tumor cells and improve cancer therapy. Apoptosis is tightly controlled by the balance of pro- and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. BH3 mimetics neutralize the antiapoptotic function of Bcl-2 proteins and are highly promising compounds inducing apoptosis in several cancer entities including pediatric malignancies. However, the clinical application of BH3 mimetics in solid tumors is impeded by the frequent resistance to single BH3 mimetics and the anticipated toxicity of high concentrations or combination treatments. One potential avenue to increase the potency of BH3 mimetics is the development of immune cell-based therapies to counteract the intrinsic apoptosis resistance of tumor cells and sensitize them to immune attack. Here, we describe spheroid cultures of pediatric cancer cells that can serve as models for drug testing. In these 3D models, we were able to demonstrate that activated allogeneic Natural Killer (NK) cells migrated into tumor spheroids and displayed cytotoxicity against a wide range of pediatric cancer spheroids, highlighting their potential as anti-tumor effector cells. Next, we investigated whether treatment of tumor spheroids with subtoxic concentrations of BH3 mimetics can increase the cytotoxicity of NK cells. Notably, the cytotoxic effects of NK cells were enhanced by the addition of BH3 mimetics. Treatment with either the Bcl-XL inhibitor A1331852 or the Mcl-1 inhibitor S63845 increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells and reduced spheroid size, while the Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199 had no effect on NK cell-mediated killing. Taken together, this is the first study to describe the combination of BH3 mimetics targeting Bcl-XL or Mcl-1 with NK cell-based immunotherapy, highlighting the potential of BH3 mimetics in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzenz Särchen
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Senthan Shanmugalingam
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sarah Kehr
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Reindl
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Victoria Greze
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sara Wiedemann
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Cathinka Boedicker
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maureen Jacob
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katrin Bankov
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nina Becker
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sibylle Wehner
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Till M Theilen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen Gretser
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elise Gradhand
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Carsten Kummerow
- Department of Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Saarland, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Meike Vogler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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28
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Heipertz EL, Zynda ER, Stav-Noraas TE, Hungler AD, Boucher SE, Kaur N, Vemuri MC. Current Perspectives on "Off-The-Shelf" Allogeneic NK and CAR-NK Cell Therapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:732135. [PMID: 34925314 PMCID: PMC8671166 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.732135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) are the first line of the innate immune defense system, primarily located in peripheral circulation and lymphoid tissues. They kill virally infected and malignant cells through a balancing play of inhibitory and stimulatory receptors. In pre-clinical investigational studies, NK cells show promising anti-tumor effects and are used in adoptive transfer of activated and expanded cells, ex-vivo. NK cells express co-stimulatory molecules that are attractive targets for the immunotherapy of cancers. Recent clinical trials are investigating the use of CAR-NK for different cancers to determine the efficiency. Herein, we review NK cell therapy approaches (NK cell preparation from tissue sources, ways of expansion ex-vivo for "off-the-shelf" allogeneic cell-doses for therapies, and how different vector delivery systems are used to engineer NK cells with CARs) for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L. Heipertz
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Evan R. Zynda
- BioProduction, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Grand Island, NY, United States
| | | | - Andrew D. Hungler
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Shayne E. Boucher
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Navjot Kaur
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Mohan C. Vemuri
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
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29
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Unleashing the power of NK cells in anticancer immunotherapy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:337-349. [PMID: 34374809 PMCID: PMC8843917 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02120-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to their physiological role in removing damaged cells, natural killer (NK) cells represent ideal candidates for cellular immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Thereby, the cytotoxicity of NK cells is regulated by signals on both, the NK cells as well as the targeted tumor cells, and the interplay and balance of these signals determine the killing capacity of NK cells. One promising avenue in cancer treatment is therefore the combination of NK cell therapy with agents that either help to increase the killing capacity of NK cells or sensitize tumor cells to an NK cell-mediated attack. In this mini-review, we present different strategies that can be explored to unleash the potential of NK cell immunotherapy. In particular, we summarize how modulation of apoptosis signaling within tumor cells can be exploited to sensitize tumor cells to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
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30
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Three-Dimensional Culture Models to Study Innate Anti-Tumor Immune Response: Advantages and Disadvantages. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143417. [PMID: 34298630 PMCID: PMC8303518 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Several approaches have shown that the immune response against tumors strongly affects patients' clinical outcome. Thus, the study of anti-tumor immunity is critical to understand and potentiate the mechanisms underlying the elimination of tumor cells. Natural killer (NK) cells are members of innate immunity and represent powerful anti-tumor effectors, able to eliminate tumor cells without a previous sensitization. Thus, the study of their involvement in anti-tumor responses is critical for clinical translation. This analysis has been performed in vitro, co-incubating NK with tumor cells and quantifying the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. In vivo confirmation has been applied to overcome the limits of in vitro testing, however, the innate immunity of mice and humans is different, leading to discrepancies. Different activating receptors on NK cells and counter-ligands on tumor cells are involved in the antitumor response, and innate immunity is strictly dependent on the specific microenvironment where it takes place. Thus, three-dimensional (3D) culture systems, where NK and tumor cells can interact in a tissue-like architecture, have been created. For example, tumor cell spheroids and primary organoids derived from several tumor types, have been used so far to analyze innate immune response, replacing animal models. Herein, we briefly introduce NK cells and analyze and discuss in detail the properties of 3D tumor culture systems and their use for the study of tumor cell interactions with NK cells.
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Furman WL. Monoclonal Antibody Therapies for High Risk Neuroblastoma. Biologics 2021; 15:205-219. [PMID: 34135571 PMCID: PMC8200163 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s267278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are part of the standard of care for the treatment of many adult solid tumors. Until recently none have been approved for use in children with solid tumors. Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. Those with high-risk disease, despite treatment with very intensive multimodal therapy, still have poor overall survival. Results of treatment with an immunotherapy regimen using a chimeric (human/mouse) mAb against a cell surface disialoganglioside (GD2) have changed the standard of care for these children and resulted in the first approval of a mAb for use in children with solid tumors. This article will review the use of the various anti-GD2 mAbs in children with NB, methods that have been or are being evaluated for enhancing their efficacy, as well as review other promising antigenic targets for the therapeutic use of mAbs in children with NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne L Furman
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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CAR-NK Cells in the Treatment of Solid Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115899. [PMID: 34072732 PMCID: PMC8197981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T) cells have emerged as a milestone in the treatment of patients with refractory B-cell neoplasms. However, despite having unprecedented efficacy against hematological malignancies, the treatment is far from flawless. Its greatest drawbacks arise from a challenging and expensive production process, strict patient eligibility criteria and serious toxicity profile. One possible solution, supported by robust research, is the replacement of T lymphocytes with NK cells for CAR expression. NK cells seem to be an attractive vehicle for CAR expression as they can be derived from multiple sources and safely infused regardless of donor-patient matching, which greatly reduces the cost of the treatment. CAR-NK cells are known to be effective against hematological malignancies, and a growing number of preclinical findings indicate that they have activity against non-hematological neoplasms. Here, we present a thorough overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the use of CAR-NK cells in treating various solid tumors.
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Islam R, Pupovac A, Evtimov V, Boyd N, Shu R, Boyd R, Trounson A. Enhancing a Natural Killer: Modification of NK Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051058. [PMID: 33946954 PMCID: PMC8146003 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are potent innate immune system effector lymphocytes armed with multiple mechanisms for killing cancer cells. Given the dynamic roles of NK cells in tumor surveillance, they are fast becoming a next-generation tool for adoptive immunotherapy. Many strategies are being employed to increase their number and improve their ability to overcome cancer resistance and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These include the use of cytokines and synthetic compounds to bolster propagation and killing capacity, targeting immune-function checkpoints, addition of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to provide cancer specificity and genetic ablation of inhibitory molecules. The next generation of NK cell products will ideally be readily available as an “off-the-shelf” product and stem cell derived to enable potentially unlimited supply. However, several considerations regarding NK cell source, genetic modification and scale up first need addressing. Understanding NK cell biology and interaction within specific tumor contexts will help identify necessary NK cell modifications and relevant choice of NK cell source. Further enhancement of manufacturing processes will allow for off-the-shelf NK cell immunotherapies to become key components of multifaceted therapeutic strategies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasa Islam
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Aleta Pupovac
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Vera Evtimov
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Nicholas Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Runzhe Shu
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Richard Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Alan Trounson
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Immune Monitoring during Therapy Reveals Activitory and Regulatory Immune Responses in High-Risk Neuroblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092096. [PMID: 33926057 PMCID: PMC8123570 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroblastoma is a type of childhood cancer accounting for approximately 15% of childhood cancer deaths. Despite intensive treatment, including immunotherapy, prognosis of high-risk neuroblastoma is poor. Increasing amounts of research show that the fighting capacity of the immune system is very important for the outcome of neuroblastoma patients. Therefore, we investigated the fighting capacity of immune cells in blood at diagnosis and during the different phases of therapy. In this study, we observed both processes that stimulate and processes that decrease fighting capacity of immune cells in neuroblastoma patients during therapy. Despite this, we show that overall fighting capacity of the immune system of neuroblastoma patients is impaired at diagnosis as well as during therapy. In addition, we observed a lot of variation between patients, which might explain differences in therapy efficacy between patients. This study provides insight for improvement of therapy timing as well as new therapy strategies enhancing immune cell fighting capacity. Abstract Despite intensive treatment, including consolidation immunotherapy (IT), prognosis of high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NBL) is poor. Immune status of patients over the course of treatment, and thus immunological features potentially explaining therapy efficacy, are largely unknown. In this study, the dynamics of immune cell subsets and their function were explored in 25 HR-NBL patients at diagnosis, during induction chemotherapy, before high-dose chemotherapy, and during IT. The dynamics of immune cells varied largely between patients. IL-2- and GM-CSF-containing IT cycles resulted in significant expansion of effector cells (NK-cells in IL-2 cycles, neutrophils and monocytes in GM-CSF cycles). Nonetheless, the cytotoxic phenotype of NK-cells was majorly disturbed at the start of IT, and both IL-2 and GM-CSF IT cycles induced preferential expansion of suppressive regulatory T-cells. Interestingly, proliferative capacity of purified patient T-cells was impaired at diagnosis as well as during therapy. This study indicates the presence of both immune-enhancing as well as regulatory responses in HR-NBL patients during (immuno)therapy. Especially the double-edged effects observed in IL-2-containing IT cycles are interesting, as this potentially explains the absence of clinical benefit of IL-2 addition to IT cycles. This suggests that there is a need to combine anti-GD2 with more specific immune-enhancing strategies to improve IT outcome in HR-NBL.
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Lamb MG, Rangarajan HG, Tullius BP, Lee DA. Natural killer cell therapy for hematologic malignancies: successes, challenges, and the future. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:211. [PMID: 33766099 PMCID: PMC7992329 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02277-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells is an emerging therapy in the field of immuno-oncology. In the last 3 decades, NK cells have been utilized to harness the anti-tumor immune response in a wide range of malignancies, most notably with early evidence of efficacy in hematologic malignancies. NK cells are dysfunctional in patients with hematologic malignancies, and their number and function are further impaired by chemotherapy, radiation, and immunosuppressants used in initial therapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Restoring this innate immune deficit may lead to improved therapeutic outcomes. NK cell adoptive transfer has proven to be a safe in these settings, even in the setting of HLA mismatch, and a deeper understanding of NK cell biology and optimized expansion techniques have improved scalability and therapeutic efficacy. Here, we review the use of NK cell therapy in hematologic malignancies and discuss strategies to further improve the efficacy of NK cells against these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret G Lamb
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Suite 5A.1, Columbus, OH, 43205-2664, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Hemalatha G Rangarajan
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Suite 5A.1, Columbus, OH, 43205-2664, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian P Tullius
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Suite 5A.1, Columbus, OH, 43205-2664, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Dean A Lee
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Suite 5A.1, Columbus, OH, 43205-2664, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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Liao YM, Hung TH, Tung JK, Yu J, Hsu YL, Hung JT, Yu AL. Low Expression of IL-15 and NKT in Tumor Microenvironment Predicts Poor Outcome of MYCN-Non-Amplified Neuroblastoma. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11020122. [PMID: 33668573 PMCID: PMC7918138 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11020122] [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: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune tumor microenvironment (TME) in neuroblastoma (NBL) contributes to tumor behavior and treatment response. T cells and natural killer (NK) cells have been shown to play important roles in the neuroblastoma TME. However, few reports address the clinical relevance of natural killer T cells (NKTs) and interleukin-15 (IL-15), one of the crucial cytokines controlling the activation and expansion of NK/NKT cells, in NBL. In this study, we examined NKT immunoscores and IL-15 expression in both MYCN-amplified and MYCN-non-amplified NBL to correlate with clinical outcomes such as event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS). From Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets GSE45480 (n = 643) and GSE49711 (n = 493), we found that NKT immunoscore and IL-15 expression were both significantly lower in MYCN-amplified NBL, and similar results were observed using our clinical NBL samples (n = 53). Moreover, NBL patients (GEO dataset GSE49711 and our clinical samples) with both lower NKT immunoscore and IL-15 expression exhibited decreased EFS and OS regardless of MYCN gene amplification status. Multivariate analysis further showed that the combination of low NKT immunoscore and low IL-15 expression level was an independent prognostic factor for poor EFS and OS in our NBL patients. These findings provide the rationale for the development of strategy to incorporate IL-15 and NKT cell therapy into the treatment regimen for neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Mei Liao
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
- Program in Translational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, and Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Hsien Hung
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
| | - John K. Tung
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
| | - John Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ling Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Jung-Tung Hung
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
- Correspondence: (J.-T.H.); (A.L.Y.); Tel.: +886-3328-1200 (ext. 7813) (J.-T.H.); +886-3328-1200 (ext. 7805) (A.L.Y.); Fax: +886-3328-1200 (A.L.Y. & J.-T.H.)
| | - Alice L. Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-M.L.); (T.-H.H.); (J.K.T.); (J.Y.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California in San Diego, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (J.-T.H.); (A.L.Y.); Tel.: +886-3328-1200 (ext. 7813) (J.-T.H.); +886-3328-1200 (ext. 7805) (A.L.Y.); Fax: +886-3328-1200 (A.L.Y. & J.-T.H.)
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Morandi F, Sabatini F, Podestà M, Airoldi I. Immunotherapeutic Strategies for Neuroblastoma: Present, Past and Future. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:43. [PMID: 33450862 PMCID: PMC7828327 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial pediatric solid tumor with a heterogeneous clinical course, ranging from spontaneous regression to metastatic disease and death, irrespective of intensive chemotherapeutic regimen. On the basis of several parameters, children affected by neuroblastoma are stratified into low, intermediate and high risk. At present, more than 50% of high-risk patients with metastatic spread display an overall poor long-term outcome also complicated by devastating long-term morbidities. Thus, novel and more effective therapies are desperately needed to improve lifespan of high-risk patients. In this regard, adoptive cell therapy holds great promise and several clinical trials are ongoing, demonstrating safety and tolerability, with no toxicities. Starting from the immunological and clinical features of neuroblastoma, we here discuss the immunotherapeutic approaches currently adopted for high-risk patients and different innovative therapeutic strategies currently under investigation. The latter are based on the infusion of natural killer (NK) cells, as support of consolidation therapy in addition to standard treatments, or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells directed against neuroblastoma associated antigens (e.g., disialoganglioside GD2). Finally, future perspectives of adoptive cell therapies represented by γδ T lymphocyes and CAR NK cells are envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Irma Airoldi
- Laboratorio Cellule Staminali Post-Natali e Terapie Cellulari, Istituto Giannina Gaslini (Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS), Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy; (F.M.); (F.S.); (M.P.)
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Liu S, Galat V, Galat Y, Lee YKA, Wainwright D, Wu J. NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy: from basic biology to clinical development. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:7. [PMID: 33407739 PMCID: PMC7788999 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-01014-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 105.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell is a specialized immune effector cell type that plays a critical role in immune activation against abnormal cells. Different from events required for T cell activation, NK cell activation is governed by the interaction of NK receptors with target cells, independent of antigen processing and presentation. Due to relatively unsophisticated cues for activation, NK cell has gained significant attention in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Many efforts are emerging for developing and engineering NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we provide our current understandings of NK cell biology, ongoing pre-clinical and clinical development of NK cell-based therapies and discuss the progress, challenges, and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sizhe Liu
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior St., Lurie Research Building 6-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Vasiliy Galat
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yekaterina Galat
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Russia
| | | | - Derek Wainwright
- Departments of Neurological Surgery, Medicine-Hematology and Oncology, Microbiology-Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jennifer Wu
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior St., Lurie Research Building 6-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Zhang S, Zhao J, Bai X, Handley M, Shan F. Biological effects of IL-15 on immune cells and its potential for the treatment of cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 91:107318. [PMID: 33383444 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) has recently emerged as a novel immunomodulatory cytokine in cancer immunotherapy. IL-15 has the potential to reject and destroy cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment by expanding and activating natural killer (NK), natural killer T (NKT), and memory (m) CD8+T cells. Due to the feasible outcomes obtained from preclinical studies and phase 1/2 clinical trials, IL-15-based therapy, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell or CAR NK cell infusion following in vitro expansion in the presence of IL-15, used in combination with checkpoint inhibitors and other therapy may extend to clinical practice in the future. It is also important to understand the biological characteristics of IL-15 to ensure the maximal benefit of therapeutic strategies. Here, we summarize the current development of IL-15 in the following areas: anti-tumor mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, advances in IL-15-based therapy itself or in combination with other methods, including biological agents, monoclonal antibodies, and adoptive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianzhu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Mike Handley
- Cytocm lnc, 3001 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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Gupta AO, Wagner JE. Umbilical Cord Blood Transplants: Current Status and Evolving Therapies. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:570282. [PMID: 33123504 PMCID: PMC7567024 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.570282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic cell transplants using stem cells from umbilical cord blood are used worldwide for the treatment of malignant and non-malignant disorders. Transplant procedures from this stem cell source have shown promising outcomes in successfully treating various hematologic, immunologic, malignant, and inherited metabolic disorders. Rapid availability of these stem cells is an important advantage over other unrelated donor transplants, especially in situations where waiting can adversely affect the prognosis. The umbilical cord blood is rich in CD34+ stem cells, though with a limited cell dose and usually takes longer to engraft. Limitations around this have been addressed by in vivo and ex vivo expansion techniques as well as enhanced engraftment kinetics. Development of adoptive immunotherapy using other components of umbilical cord blood such as regulatory T cells, virus-specific T cells, and natural killer cells has further transformed the field and enhanced the utility of umbilical cord blood unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish O Gupta
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - John E Wagner
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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