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Song L, Yang Y, Tian X. Current knowledge about immunotherapy resistance for melanoma and potential predictive and prognostic biomarkers. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2024; 7:17. [PMID: 38835341 PMCID: PMC11149101 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma still reaches thousands of new diagnoses per year, and its aggressiveness makes recovery challenging, especially for those with stage III/IV unresectable melanoma. Immunotherapy, emerging as a beacon of hope, stands at the forefront of treatments for advanced melanoma. This review delves into the various immunotherapeutic strategies, prominently featuring cytokine immunotherapy, adoptive cell therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and vaccinations. Among these, immune checkpoint inhibitors, notably anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) antibodies, emerge as the leading strategy. However, a significant subset of melanoma patients remains unresponsive to these inhibitors, underscoring the need for potent biomarkers. Efficient biomarkers have the potential to revolutionize the therapeutic landscape by facilitating the design of personalized treatments for patients with melanoma. This comprehensive review highlights the latest advancements in melanoma immunotherapy and potential biomarkers at the epicenter of recent research endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanni Song
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory for Applied Biomedical and Bio-pharmaceutical Informatics, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Bioinformatics International Science and Technology Cooperation Center, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yixin Yang
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory for Applied Biomedical and Bio-pharmaceutical Informatics, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Bioinformatics International Science and Technology Cooperation Center, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | - Xuechen Tian
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory for Applied Biomedical and Bio-pharmaceutical Informatics, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Bioinformatics International Science and Technology Cooperation Center, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
- College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, Zhejiang, China
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Lee M, Im SK, Baek S, Ji M, Kim M, Lee EJ, Ji ST, Ferrando-Martinez S, Wolfarth A, Lee JY, Kim D, Choi D. rhIL-7-hyFc and hIL-2/TCB2c combination promotes an immune-stimulatory tumor microenvironment that improves antitumor efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008001. [PMID: 38471713 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant human interleukin (rhIL)-7-hyFc (efineptakin alfa; NT-I7) is a potent T-cell amplifier, with two IL-7 molecules fused to IgD/IgG4 elements. rhIL-7-hyFc promotes extensive infiltration of CD8+ T cells into the tumor, concurrently increasing the numbers of intratumoral PD-1+CD8+ T cells. The hIL-2/TCB2 complex (SLC-3010) inhibits tumor growth by preferential activation of CD122 (IL-2Rβ)high CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells, over regulatory T cells (Tregs). We investigated the underlying mechanisms of rhIL-7-hyFc and hIL-2/TCB2c antitumor activity and the potential synergistic efficacy, specifically focusing on tumor-specific CD8+ cells within the tumor and the tumor-draining lymph nodes (tdLN). METHODS MC38 and CT26 tumor-bearing mice were administered with 10 mg/kg rhIL-7-hyFc intramuscularly and 0.9 mg/kg hIL-2/TCB2c intravenously. Anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody was administered intraperitoneally three times at 3-day intervals at a dose of 5 mg/kg. Tumor volume was measured to assess efficacy. To compare the composition of immune cells between each monotherapy and the combination therapy, we analyzed tumors and tdLNs by flow cytometry. RESULTS Our data demonstrate that the combination of rhIL-7-hyFc and hIL-2/TCB2c increases efficacy and generates an immune-stimulatory tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is characterized by an increased infiltration of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells, and a decreased frequency of CD39highTIM-3+ Treg cells. Most importantly, rhIL-7-hyFc increases infiltration of a CD62L+Ly108+ early progenitor population of exhausted CD8+ T cells (TPEX), which may retain long-term proliferation capacity and replenish functional effector CD8+ T cells. hIL-2/TCB2c induces differentiation of CD62L+Ly108+ TPEX rapidly into CD101+ terminally differentiated subsets (terminally exhausted T cell (TEX term)). Our study also demonstrates that rhIL-7-hyFc significantly enhances the proliferation rate of TPEX in the tdLNs, positively correlating with their abundance within the tumor. Moreover, rhIL-7-hyFc and hIL-2/TCB2c can overcome the limited therapeutic effectiveness of PD-1 blockade, culminating in the complete regression of tumors. CONCLUSIONS rhIL-7-hyFc can expand and maintain the progenitor pool of exhausted CD8+ T cells, whereas hIL-2/TCB2c promotes their differentiation into TEX term. Together, this induces an immune-stimulatory TME that improves the efficacy of checkpoint blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minji Lee
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Sun-Kyoung Im
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Seungtae Baek
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Mankyu Ji
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Miyoung Kim
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Eun Ju Lee
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Seung Taek Ji
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | | | | | | | - Daeun Kim
- Selecxine, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
| | - Donghoon Choi
- Research Institute of NeoImmuneTech, Co., Ltd, Pohang, Korea (the Republic of)
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Qin D, Zhang Y, Shu P, Lei Y, Li X, Wang Y. Targeting tumor-infiltrating tregs for improved antitumor responses. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1325946. [PMID: 38500876 PMCID: PMC10944859 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1325946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies have revolutionized the landscape of cancer treatment. Regulatory T cells (Tregs), as crucial components of the tumor immune environment, has great therapeutic potential. However, nonspecific inhibition of Tregs in therapies may not lead to enhanced antitumor responses, but could also trigger autoimmune reactions in patients, resulting in intolerable treatment side effects. Hence, the precision targeting and inhibition of tumor-infiltrating Tregs is of paramount importance. In this overview, we summarize the characteristics and subpopulations of Tregs within tumor microenvironment and their inhibitory mechanisms in antitumor responses. Furthermore, we discuss the current major strategies targeting regulatory T cells, weighing their advantages and limitations, and summarize representative clinical trials targeting Tregs in cancer treatment. We believe that developing therapies that specifically target and suppress tumor-infiltrating Tregs holds great promise for advancing immune-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diyuan Qin
- Cancer Center, Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yugu Zhang
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Pei Shu
- Cancer Center, Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanna Lei
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Cancer Center, Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yongsheng Wang
- Cancer Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Pellegrino M, Secli V, D’Amico S, Petrilli LL, Caforio M, Folgiero V, Tumino N, Vacca P, Vinci M, Fruci D, de Billy E. Manipulating the tumor immune microenvironment to improve cancer immunotherapy: IGF1R, a promising target. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1356321. [PMID: 38420122 PMCID: PMC10899349 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1356321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has made impressive advances in improving the outcome of patients affected by malignant diseases. Nonetheless, some limitations still need to be tackled to more efficiently and safely treat patients, in particular for those affected by solid tumors. One of the limitations is related to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which impairs anti-tumor immunity. Efforts to identify targets able to turn the TME into a milieu more auspicious to current immuno-oncotherapy is a real challenge due to the high redundancy of the mechanisms involved. However, the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), an attractive drug target for cancer therapy, is emerging as an important immunomodulator and regulator of key immune cell functions. Here, after briefly summarizing the IGF1R signaling pathway in cancer, we review its role in regulating immune cells function and activity, and discuss IGF1R as a promising target to improve anti-cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marsha Pellegrino
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Secli
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia D’Amico
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Lisa Petrilli
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Caforio
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Folgiero
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Research Area, Innate Lymphoid Cells Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Vacca
- Immunology Research Area, Innate Lymphoid Cells Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vinci
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Doriana Fruci
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuel de Billy
- Oncohematology and Pharmaceutical Factory Research Area, Pediatric Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Caraban BM, Aschie M, Deacu M, Cozaru GC, Pundiche MB, Orasanu CI, Voda RI. A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge on Cutaneous Melanoma. Clin Pract 2024; 14:214-241. [PMID: 38391404 PMCID: PMC10888040 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a public health problem. Efforts to reduce its incidence have failed, as it continues to increase. In recent years, many risk factors have been identified. Numerous diagnostic systems exist that greatly assist in early clinical diagnosis. The histopathological aspect illustrates the grim nature of these cancers. Currently, pathogenic pathways and the tumor microclimate are key to the development of therapeutic methods. Revolutionary therapies like targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors are starting to replace traditional therapeutic methods. Targeted therapy aims at a specific molecule in the pathogenic chain to block it, stopping cell growth and dissemination. The main function of immune checkpoint inhibitors is to boost cellular immunity in order to combat cancer cells. Unfortunately, these therapies have different rates of effectiveness and side effects, and cannot be applied to all patients. These shortcomings are the basis of increased incidence and mortality rates. This study covers all stages of the evolutionary sequence of melanoma. With all these data in front of us, we see the need for new research efforts directed at therapies that will bring greater benefits in terms of patient survival and prognosis, with fewer adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Marian Caraban
- Clinical Department of Plastic Surgery, Microsurgery-Reconstructive, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Aschie
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Academy of Medical Sciences of Romania, 030171 Bucharest, Romania
- The Romanian Academy of Scientists, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Deacu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Georgeta Camelia Cozaru
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Genetics, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mihaela Butcaru Pundiche
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Department of General Surgery, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Cristian Ionut Orasanu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Raluca Ioana Voda
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
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Hu Y, Dong Z, Liu K. Unraveling the complexity of STAT3 in cancer: molecular understanding and drug discovery. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:23. [PMID: 38245798 PMCID: PMC10799433 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02949-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcriptional factor involved in almost all cancer hallmark features including tumor proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, tumor inflammation, metabolism reprogramming, drug resistance, cancer stemness. Therefore, STAT3 has become a promising therapeutic target in a wide range of cancers. This review focuses on the up-to-date knowledge of STAT3 signaling in cancer. We summarize both the positive and negative modulators of STAT3 together with the cancer hallmarks involving activities regulated by STAT3 and highlight its extremely sophisticated regulation on immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment and metabolic reprogramming. Direct and indirect inhibitors of STAT3 in preclinical and clinical studies also have been summarized and discussed. Additionally, we highlight and propose new strategies of targeting STAT3 and STAT3-based combinations with established chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and combination therapy. These efforts may provide new perspectives for STAT3-based target therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Hu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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7
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Sun Y, Zhou X, Lucas E, Chen L, Zhang H, Chen H, Zhou F. Expression of B7-H3 and TIM-3 in gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma: prevalence, association with PD-L1 expression, and prognostic significance. J Pathol Clin Res 2024; 10:e345. [PMID: 37798754 PMCID: PMC10766062 DOI: 10.1002/cjp2.345] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GEA) is the second most common subtype of endocervical adenocarcinoma and has a poor prognosis. Anti-programmed death-1 and anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors have emerged as a major treatment option for GEA; however, data on the expression of other immune checkpoints in GEA are limited. We analyzed the expression of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) and B7 homolog 3 protein (B7-H3) in 58 GEA and investigated their prognostic significance as well as association with PD-L1 expression and other known prognostic factors. Applying the tumor proportion score (TPS) with a cutoff of 1%, B7-H3 and TIM-3 were present in 48.3% and 17.2% of cases, respectively. Applying the combined positive score (CPS) with a cutoff of 1, TIM-3 expression was present in 70.7% of cases. Moreover, the expression of three checkpoints (B7-H3, TIM-3, and PD-L1) was incompletely overlapping. Patients with B7-H3 positive tumors (by TPS) or TIM-3 positive tumors (by TPS) had significantly worse recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (log-rank). Using CPS, patients with TIM-3 positive tumors showed significantly worse RFS (log-rank). Similarly, B7-H3 positivity (by TPS) and TIM-3 positivity (by TPS) were associated with worse RFS and OS in univariate analysis. TIM-3 positivity (by CPS) was associated with worse RFS in univariate analysis and the final Cox multivariate analysis. In conclusion, our results show that (1) B7-H3 and TIM-3 are frequently expressed in GEA and their expression overlaps incompletely with PD-L1; and (2) both B7-H3 and TIM-3 are independent negative prognostic markers in GEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Sun
- Department of PathologyZhejiang University School of Medicine Women's HospitalHangzhouZhejiang ProvincePR China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of PathologyZhejiang University School of Medicine Women's HospitalHangzhouZhejiang ProvincePR China
- Department of PathologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPR China
| | - Elena Lucas
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
- Department of PathologyParkland HospitalDallasTXUSA
| | - Lili Chen
- Department of GynecologyZhejiang University School of Medicine Women's HospitalHangzhouZhejiang ProvincePR China
| | - Huijuan Zhang
- Department of PathologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPR China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
- Department of PathologyParkland HospitalDallasTXUSA
| | - Feng Zhou
- Department of PathologyZhejiang University School of Medicine Women's HospitalHangzhouZhejiang ProvincePR China
- Department of PathologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPR China
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8
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Li Q, Wang X, Song Q, Yang S, Wu X, Yang D, Marié IJ, Qin H, Zheng M, Nasri U, Kong X, Wang B, Lizhar E, Cassady K, Tompkins J, Levy D, Martin PJ, Zhang X, Zeng D. Donor T cell STAT3 deficiency enables tissue PD-L1-dependent prevention of graft-versus-host disease while preserving graft-versus-leukemia activity. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e165723. [PMID: 37526084 PMCID: PMC10378157 DOI: 10.1172/jci165723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STAT3 deficiency (STAT3-/-) in donor T cells prevents graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), but the impact on graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) activity and mechanisms of GVHD prevention remains unclear. Here, using murine models of GVHD, we show that STAT3-/- donor T cells induced only mild reversible acute GVHD while preserving GVL effects against nonsusceptible acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells in a donor T cell dose-dependent manner. GVHD prevention depended on programmed death ligand 1/programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-L1/PD-1) signaling. In GVHD target tissues, STAT3 deficiency amplified PD-L1/PD-1 inhibition of glutathione (GSH)/Myc pathways that regulate metabolic reprogramming in activated T cells, with decreased glycolytic and mitochondrial ATP production and increased mitochondrial ROS production and dysfunction, leading to tissue-specific deletion of host-reactive T cells and prevention of GVHD. Mitochondrial STAT3 deficiency alone did not reduce GSH expression or prevent GVHD. In lymphoid tissues, the lack of host-tissue PD-L1 interaction with PD-1 reduced the inhibition of the GSH/Myc pathway despite reduced GSH production caused by STAT3 deficiency and allowed donor T cell functions that mediate GVL activity. Therefore, STAT3 deficiency in donor T cells augments PD-1 signaling-mediated inhibition of GSH/Myc pathways and augments dysfunction of T cells in GVHD target tissues while sparing T cells in lymphoid tissues, leading to prevention of GVHD while preserving GVL effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinjian Li
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Xiaoqi Wang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Qingxiao Song
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
- Fujian Medical University Center of Translational Hematology, Fujian Institute of Hematology, and Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shijie Yang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Xiwei Wu
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Dongyun Yang
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Isabelle J Marié
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Hanjun Qin
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Moqian Zheng
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Ubaydah Nasri
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Xiaohui Kong
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Bixin Wang
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
- Fujian Medical University Center of Translational Hematology, Fujian Institute of Hematology, and Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Elizabeth Lizhar
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Kaniel Cassady
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Josh Tompkins
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - David Levy
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Paul J Martin
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Xi Zhang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Defu Zeng
- Arthur D. Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
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9
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Mishra M, Yadav M, Kumar S, Kumar R, Sen P. TIM-3 increases the abundance of type-2 dendritic cells during Leishmania donovani infection by enhancing IL-10 production via STAT3. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:331. [PMID: 37202419 PMCID: PMC10195822 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05848-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The outcome of the disease visceral leishmaniasis (VL), caused by Leishmania donovani (LD), largely relies on the relative dominance of host-protective type-1 T helper (Th1) cell response versus disease-promoting type-2 T helper (Th2) cell response. The Th1 and Th2 responses, in turn, are believed to be elicited by type-1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1) and type-2 conventional DCs (cDC2), respectively. However, it is still unknown which DC subtype (cDC1 or cDC2) predominates during chronic LD infection and the molecular mechanism governing such occurrence. Here we report that in chronically infected mice, the splenic cDC1-cDC2 balance shifted toward the cDC2 subtype and that the receptor T cell immunoglobulin and mucin protein-3 (TIM-3) expressed by DCs played a key role in mediating this effect. Transfer of TIM-3-silenced DCs in fact prevented the predominance of the cDC2 subtype in mice with chronic LD infection. We also found that LD actually upregulated TIM-3 expression on DCs by triggering a TIM-3-mediated signaling pathway STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3)→interleukin (IL)-10→c-Src→transcription factors Ets1, Ets2, USF1, and USF2. Notably, TIM-3 promoted STAT3 activation via a non-receptor tyrosine kinase Btk. Adoptive transfer experiments further demonstrated a critical role for STAT3-driven TIM-3 upregulation on DCs in increasing cDC2 abundance in chronically infected mice, which ultimately aided disease pathogenesis by augmenting Th2 responses. These findings document a new immunoregulatory mechanism contributing to disease pathology during LD infection and define TIM-3 as a key mediator of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Mishra
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Manisha Yadav
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Raj Kumar
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Pradip Sen
- Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India.
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10
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Ziogas DC, Theocharopoulos C, Lialios PP, Foteinou D, Koumprentziotis IA, Xynos G, Gogas H. Beyond CTLA-4 and PD-1 Inhibition: Novel Immune Checkpoint Molecules for Melanoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2718. [PMID: 37345056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
More than ten years after the approval of ipilimumab, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) against PD-1 and CTLA-4 have been established as the most effective treatment for locally advanced or metastatic melanoma, achieving durable responses either as monotherapies or in combinatorial regimens. However, a considerable proportion of patients do not respond or experience early relapse, due to multiple parameters that contribute to melanoma resistance. The expression of other immune checkpoints beyond the PD-1 and CTLA-4 molecules remains a major mechanism of immune evasion. The recent approval of anti-LAG-3 ICI, relatlimab, in combination with nivolumab for metastatic disease, has capitalized on the extensive research in the field and has highlighted the potential for further improvement of melanoma prognosis by synergistically blocking additional immune targets with new ICI-doublets, antibody-drug conjugates, or other novel modalities. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of presently published immune checkpoint molecules, including LAG-3, TIGIT, TIM-3, VISTA, IDO1/IDO2/TDO, CD27/CD70, CD39/73, HVEM/BTLA/CD160 and B7-H3. Beginning from their immunomodulatory properties as co-inhibitory or co-stimulatory receptors, we present all therapeutic modalities targeting these molecules that have been tested in melanoma treatment either in preclinical or clinical settings. Better understanding of the checkpoint-mediated crosstalk between melanoma and immune effector cells is essential for generating more effective strategies with augmented immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios C Ziogas
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Charalampos Theocharopoulos
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis-Petros Lialios
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Foteinou
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis-Alexios Koumprentziotis
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Xynos
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Helen Gogas
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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11
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Takahashi H, Miyoshi N, Murakami H, Okamura Y, Ogo N, Takagi A, Muraoka D, Asai A. Combined therapeutic effect of YHO-1701 with PD-1 blockade is dependent on natural killer cell activity in syngeneic mouse models. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023:10.1007/s00262-023-03440-4. [PMID: 37017695 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03440-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway is a key mediator of cancer cell proliferation, survival, and invasion. We discovered YHO-1701 as a small molecule inhibitor of STAT3 dimerization and demonstrated its potent anti-tumor activity using xenograft mouse models as monotherapy and combination therapy with molecular targeted drugs. STAT3 is also associated with cancer immune tolerance; therefore, we used the female CT26 syngeneic mouse model to examine the effect of combining YHO-1701 administration with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. Pretreatment of the mice with YHO-1701 before starting anti-PD-1 antibody administration resulted in a significant therapeutic effect. In addition, the effect of monotherapy and combination treatment with YHO-1701 was significantly abolished by depleting natural killer (NK) cell activity. YHO-1701 was also found to restore the activity of mouse NK cells under inhibitory conditions in vitro. Furthermore, this combination therapy significantly inhibited tumor growth in an immunotherapy-resistant model of murine CMS5a fibrosarcoma. These results suggest that the combination of YHO-1701 with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade might be a new candidate for cancer immunotherapy involving the enhancement of NK cell activity in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Takahashi
- Center for Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-Ku, Shizuoka-Shi, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development Division, Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nao Miyoshi
- Center for Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-Ku, Shizuoka-Shi, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan
| | - Hisashi Murakami
- Center for Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-Ku, Shizuoka-Shi, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan
| | - Yuta Okamura
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development Division, Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohisa Ogo
- Center for Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-Ku, Shizuoka-Shi, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Takagi
- Yakult Central Institute, Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Muraoka
- Division of Translational Oncoimmunology, Aichi Cancer Research Institute, Naogya, Japan
| | - Akira Asai
- Center for Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-Ku, Shizuoka-Shi, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan.
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12
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Overcoming Acquired Drug Resistance to Cancer Therapies through Targeted STAT3 Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054722. [PMID: 36902166 PMCID: PMC10002572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-neoplastic agents for cancer treatment utilize many different mechanisms of action and, when combined, can result in potent inhibition of cancer growth. Combination therapies can result in long-term, durable remission or even cure; however, too many times, these anti-neoplastic agents lose their efficacy due to the development of acquired drug resistance (ADR). In this review, we evaluate the scientific and medical literature that elucidate STAT3-mediated mechanisms of resistance to cancer therapeutics. Herein, we have found that at least 24 different anti-neoplastic agents-standard toxic chemotherapeutic agents, targeted kinase inhibitors, anti-hormonal agents, and monoclonal antibodies-that utilize the STAT3 signaling pathway as one mechanism of developing therapeutic resistance. Targeting STAT3, in combination with existing anti-neoplastic agents, may prove to be a successful therapeutic strategy to either prevent or even overcome ADR to standard and novel cancer therapies.
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13
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Mechanisms of Resistance and Strategies to Combat Resistance in PD-(L)1 Blockade. IMMUNO 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno2040041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged survival and durable responses in several late-stage cancers such as melanoma and lung cancer have been made possible with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed cell-death protein 1 (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1. While it is prudent to focus on the unprecedented and durable clinical responses, there are subsets of cancer patients that do not respond to immunotherapies or respond early and then relapse later. Many pathways of resistance have been characterized, and more continue to be uncovered. To overcome the development of resistance, an in-depth investigation is necessary to identify alternative immune receptors and signals with the overarching goal of expanding treatment options for those with demonstrated resistance to PD1 checkpoint immunotherapy. In this mini-review, we will discuss the mechanisms by which tumors exhibit resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy and explore strategies to overcome such resistances.
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14
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Witalisz-Siepracka A, Klein K, Zdársky B, Stoiber D. The Multifaceted Role of STAT3 in NK-Cell Tumor Surveillance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:947568. [PMID: 35865518 PMCID: PMC9294167 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.947568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a member of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT pathway, which is one of the key pathways contributing to cancer. STAT3 regulates transcription downstream of many cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10. In cancer, STAT3 is mainly described as a tumor promoter driving tumor cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, angiogenesis and metastasis and aberrant activation of STAT3 is associated with poor prognosis. STAT3 is also an important driver of immune evasion. Among many other immunosuppressive mechanisms, STAT3 aids tumor cells to escape natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune surveillance. NK cells are innate lymphocytes, which can directly kill malignant cells but also regulate adaptive immune responses and contribute to the composition of the tumor microenvironment. The inborn ability to lyse transformed cells renders NK cells an attractive tool for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we provide an overview of the role of STAT3 in the dynamic interplay between NK cells and tumor cells. On the one hand, we summarize the current knowledge on how tumor cell-intrinsic STAT3 drives the evasion from NK cells. On the other hand, we describe the multiple functions of STAT3 in regulating NK-cell cytotoxicity, cytokine production and their anti-tumor responses in vivo. In light of the ongoing research on STAT3 inhibitors, we also discuss how targeting STAT3 would affect the two arms of STAT3-dependent regulation of NK cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity. Understanding the complexity of this interplay in the tumor microenvironment is crucial for future implementation of NK cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Witalisz-Siepracka
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
| | - Klara Klein
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Zdársky
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
| | - Dagmar Stoiber
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Microbiology, Division Pharmacology, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- *Correspondence: Dagmar Stoiber,
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