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Dreyzin A, Rankin AW, Luciani K, Gavrilova T, Shah NN. Overcoming the challenges of primary resistance and relapse after CAR-T cell therapy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:745-763. [PMID: 38739466 PMCID: PMC11180598 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2349738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While CAR T-cell therapy has led to remarkable responses in relapsed B-cell hematologic malignancies, only 50% of patients ultimately have a complete, sustained response. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance and relapse after CAR T-cell therapy is crucial to future development and improving outcomes. AREAS COVERED We review reasons for both primary resistance and relapse after CAR T-cell therapies. Reasons for primary failure include CAR T-cell manufacturing problems, suboptimal fitness of autologous T-cells themselves, and intrinsic features of the underlying cancer and tumor microenvironment. Relapse after initial response to CAR T-cell therapy may be antigen-positive, due to CAR T-cell exhaustion or limited persistence, or antigen-negative, due to antigen-modulation on the target cells. Finally, we discuss ongoing efforts to overcome resistance to CAR T-cell therapy with enhanced CAR constructs, manufacturing methods, alternate cell types, combinatorial strategies, and optimization of both pre-infusion conditioning regimens and post-infusion consolidative strategies. EXPERT OPINION There is a continued need for novel approaches to CAR T-cell therapy for both hematologic and solid malignancies to obtain sustained remissions. Opportunities for improvement include development of new targets, optimally combining existing CAR T-cell therapies, and defining the role for adjunctive immune modulators and stem cell transplant in enhancing long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Dreyzin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children's National Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Alexander W Rankin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Katia Luciani
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Nirali N Shah
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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2
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Qin M, Deng C, Wen L, Luo G, Meng Y. CRISPR-Cas and CRISPR-based screening system for precise gene editing and targeted cancer therapy. J Transl Med 2024; 22:516. [PMID: 38816739 PMCID: PMC11138051 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05235-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Target cancer therapy has been developed for clinical cancer treatment based on the discovery of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) -Cas system. This forefront and cutting-edge scientific technique improves the cancer research into molecular level and is currently widely utilized in genetic investigation and clinical precision cancer therapy. In this review, we summarized the genetic modification by CRISPR/Cas and CRISPR screening system, discussed key components for successful CRISPR screening, including Cas enzymes, guide RNA (gRNA) libraries, target cells or organs. Furthermore, we focused on the application for CAR-T cell therapy, drug target, drug screening, or drug selection in both ex vivo and in vivo with CRISPR screening system. In addition, we elucidated the advantages and potential obstacles of CRISPR system in precision clinical medicine and described the prospects for future genetic therapy.In summary, we provide a comprehensive and practical perspective on the development of CRISPR/Cas and CRISPR screening system for the treatment of cancer defects, aiming to further improve the precision and accuracy for clinical treatment and individualized gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Qin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University (Foshan Women and Children Hospital), Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, China
- Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Chunhao Deng
- Chinese Medicine and Translational Medicine R&D center, Zhuhai UM Science & Technology Research Institute, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519031, China
| | - Liewei Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Guoqun Luo
- Reproductive Medical Center, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University (Foshan Women and Children Hospital), Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, China.
| | - Ya Meng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China.
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Enriquez-Rodriguez L, Attia N, Gallego I, Mashal M, Maldonado I, Puras G, Pedraz JL. Expanding the horizon of transient CAR T therapeutics using virus-free technology. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 72:108350. [PMID: 38537878 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
The extraordinary success that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies have shown over the years on fighting hematological malignancies is evidenced by the six FDA-approved products present on the market. CAR T treatments have forever changed the way we understand cellular immunotherapies, as current research in the topic is expanding even outside the field of cancer with very promising results. Until now, virus-based strategies have been used for CAR T cell manufacturing. However, this methodology presents relevant limitations that need to be addressed prior to wide spreading this technology to other pathologies and in order to optimize current cancer treatments. Several approaches are being explored to overcome these challenges such as virus-free alternatives that additionally offer the possibility of developing transient CAR expression or in vivo T cell modification. In this review, we aim to spotlight a pivotal juncture in the history of medicine where a significant change in perspective is occurring. We review the current progress made on viral-based CAR T therapies as well as their limitations and we discuss the future outlook of virus-free CAR T strategies to overcome current challenges and achieve affordable immunotherapies for a wide variety of pathologies, including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Enriquez-Rodriguez
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Noha Attia
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Idoia Gallego
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Mohamed Mashal
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Iván Maldonado
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Gustavo Puras
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - José Luis Pedraz
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
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4
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Gemayel J, Chebly A, Kourie H, Hanna C, Mheidly K, Mhanna M, Karam F, Ghoussaini D, Najjar PE, Khalil C. Genome Engineering as a Therapeutic Approach in Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Review. ADVANCED GENETICS (HOBOKEN, N.J.) 2024; 5:2300201. [PMID: 38465225 PMCID: PMC10919288 DOI: 10.1002/ggn2.202300201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the foremost causes of mortality. The human genome remains stable over time. However, human activities and environmental factors have the power to influence the prevalence of certain types of mutations. This goes to the excessive progress of xenobiotics and industrial development that is expanding the territory for cancers to develop. The mechanisms involved in immune responses against cancer are widely studied. Genome editing has changed the genome-based immunotherapy process in the human body and has opened a new era for cancer treatment. In this review, recent cancer immunotherapies and the use of genome engineering technology are largely focused on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Gemayel
- Faculty of SciencesBalamand UniversityBeirutLebanon
- FMPS Holding BIOTECKNO s.a.l. Research and Quality SolutionsNaccashBeirut60 247Lebanon
| | - Alain Chebly
- Center Jacques Loiselet for Medical Genetics and Genomics (CGGM), Faculty of MedicineSaint Joseph UniversityBeirutLebanon
- Higher Institute of Public HealthSaint Joseph UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Hampig Kourie
- Center Jacques Loiselet for Medical Genetics and Genomics (CGGM), Faculty of MedicineSaint Joseph UniversityBeirutLebanon
- Faculty of MedicineSaint Joseph UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Colette Hanna
- Faculty of MedicineLebanese American University Medical CenterRizk HospitalBeirutLebanon
| | | | - Melissa Mhanna
- Faculty of MedicineParis Saclay University63 Rue Gabriel PériLe Kremlin‐Bicêtre94270France
| | - Farah Karam
- Faculty of MedicineBalamand UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | | | - Paula El Najjar
- FMPS Holding BIOTECKNO s.a.l. Research and Quality SolutionsNaccashBeirut60 247Lebanon
- Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, School of EngineeringHoly Spirit University of KaslikJounieh446Lebanon
| | - Charbel Khalil
- Reviva Regenerative Medicine CenterBsalimLebanon
- Bone Marrow Transplant UnitBurjeel Medical CityAbu DhabiUAE
- Lebanese American University School of MedicineBeirutLebanon
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5
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Anwar A, Lepore C, Czerniecki BJ, Koski GK, Showalter LE. PIM kinase inhibitor AZD1208 in conjunction with Th1 cytokines potentiate death of breast cancer cellsin vitrowhile also maximizing suppression of tumor growthin vivo when combined with immunotherapy. Cell Immunol 2024; 397-398:104805. [PMID: 38244265 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2024.104805] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
PIM kinases are over-expressed by a number of solid malignancies including breast cancer, and are thought to regulate proliferation, survival, and resistance to treatment, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Because PIM kinases sit at the nexus of multiple oncodriver pathways, PIM antagonist drugs are being tested alone and in conjunction with other therapies to optimize outcomes. We therefore sought to test the combination of pharmacological PIM antagonism and Th1-associated immunotherapy. We show that the pan PIM antagonist, AZD1208, when combined in vitro with Th1 cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α, potentiates metabolic suppression, overall cell death, and expression of apoptotic markers in human breast cancer cell lines of diverse phenotypes (HER-2pos/ERneg, HER-2pos/ERpos and triple-negative). Interestingly, AZD1208 was shown to moderately inhibit IFN-γ secretion by stimulated T lymphocytes of both human and murine origin, suggesting some inherent immunosuppressive activity of the drug. Nonetheless, when multiplexed therapies were tested in a murine model of HER-2pos breast cancer, combinations of HER-2 peptide-pulsed DCs and AZD1208, as well as recombinant IFN-γ plus AZD1208 significantly suppressed tumor outgrowth compared with single-treatment and control groups. These studies suggest that PIM antagonism may combine productively with certain immunotherapies to improve responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent OH 44242, USA
| | - Carissa Lepore
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent OH 44242, USA
| | | | - Gary K Koski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent OH 44242, USA.
| | - Loral E Showalter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent OH 44242, USA
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6
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Meo C, de Nigris F. Clinical Potential of YY1-Hypoxia Axis for Vascular Normalization and to Improve Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:491. [PMID: 38339244 PMCID: PMC10854702 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16030491] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal vasculature in solid tumors causes poor blood perfusion, hypoxia, low pH, and immune evasion. It also shapes the tumor microenvironment and affects response to immunotherapy. The combination of antiangiogenic therapy and immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach to normalize vasculature and unlock the full potential of immunotherapy. However, the unpredictable and redundant mechanisms of vascularization and immune suppression triggered by tumor-specific hypoxic microenvironments indicate that such combination therapies need to be further evaluated to improve patient outcomes. Here, we provide an overview of the interplay between tumor angiogenesis and immune modulation and review the function and mechanism of the YY1-HIF axis that regulates the vascular and immune tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting YY1 and other strategies, such as nanocarrier delivery systems and engineered immune cells (CAR-T), to normalize tumor vascularization and re-establish an immune-permissive microenvironment to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Filomena de Nigris
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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7
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Ou L, Su C, Liang L, Duan Q, Li Y, Zang H, He Y, Zeng R, Li Y, Zhou H, Xiao L. Current status and future prospects of chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy in lymphoma research: A bibliometric analysis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2267865. [PMID: 37846106 PMCID: PMC10583622 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2267865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR-T cell therapy, a novel therapeutic approach that has attracted much attention in the field of cancer treatment at present, has become the subject of many studies and has shown great potential in the treatment of hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma. This study aims to analyze the characteristics of articles published on CAR-T cell therapy in the lymphoma field and explore the existing hotspots and frontiers. The relevant articles published from 2013 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Bibliometric online analysis platform, Microsoft Excel, and R software were used for bibliometric analysis and visualization. The number of publications related to the research has been increasing year by year, including 1023 articles and 760 reviews from 62 countries and regions, 2092 institutions, 1040 journals, and 8727 authors. The United States, China, and Germany are the main publishing countries in this research field. The top 10 institutions are all from the United States, the journal with the highest impact factor is BLOOD, the author with the most publications is Frederick L Locke, and the most influential author is Carl H June. The top three keywords are "Lymphoma," "Immunotherapy," and "Therapy." "Maude (2014)" is the most cited and strongest burstiness reference over the past decade. This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of CAR-T cell therapy in lymphoma, which can help researchers understand the current research hotspots in this field, explore potential research directions, and identify future development trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijia Ou
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chang Su
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liang Liang
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Graduate Collaborative Training Base of Hunan Cancer Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Qintong Duan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yufeng Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Zang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology of School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yiyang Medical College, Yiyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yizi He
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ruolan Zeng
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yajun Li
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Lymphoma & Hematology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Xiao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Nasiri F, Farrokhi K, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Mahboubi Kancha M, Dashti Shokoohi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell immunotherapy for ovarian cancer: hushing the silent killer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1302307. [PMID: 38146364 PMCID: PMC10749368 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1302307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most lethal gynecologic oncological indication, carcinoma of the ovary has been ranked as the 5th cause of cancer-related mortality in women, with a high percentage of the patients being diagnosed at late stages of the disease and a five-year survival of ~ 30%. Ovarian cancer patients conventionally undergo surgery for tumor removal followed by platinum- or taxane-based chemotherapy; however, a high percentage of patients experience tumor relapse. Cancer immunotherapy has been regarded as a silver lining in the treatment of patients with various immunological or oncological indications; however, mirvetuximab soravtansine (a folate receptor α-specific mAb) and bevacizumab (a VEGF-A-specific mAb) are the only immunotherapeutics approved for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has achieved tremendous clinical success in the treatment of patients with certain B-cell lymphomas and leukemias, as well as multiple myeloma. In the context of solid tumors, CAR-T therapies face serious obstacles that limit their therapeutic benefit. Such hindrances include the immunosuppressive nature of solid tumors, impaired tumor infiltration, lack of qualified tumor-associated antigens, and compromised stimulation and persistence of CAR-Ts following administration. Over the past years, researchers have made arduous attempts to apply CAR-T therapy to ovarian cancer. In this review, we outline the principles of CAR-T therapy and then highlight its limitations in the context of solid tumors. Ultimately, we focus on preclinical and clinical findings achieved in CAR-T-mediated targeting of different ovarian cancer-associated target antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nasiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Production Platforms & Analytics, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Khadijeh Farrokhi
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maral Mahboubi Kancha
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Setareh Dashti Shokoohi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Choi Y, Jung K. Normalization of the tumor microenvironment by harnessing vascular and immune modulation to achieve enhanced cancer therapy. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2308-2319. [PMID: 37907742 PMCID: PMC10689787 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01114-w] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are complex entities that actively shape their microenvironment to create a supportive environment for their own growth. Angiogenesis and immune suppression are two key characteristics of this tumor microenvironment. Despite attempts to deplete tumor blood vessels using antiangiogenic drugs, extensive vessel pruning has shown limited efficacy. Instead, a targeted approach involving the judicious use of drugs at specific time points can normalize the function and structure of tumor vessels, leading to improved outcomes when combined with other anticancer therapies. Additionally, normalizing the immune microenvironment by suppressing immunosuppressive cells and activating immunostimulatory cells has shown promise in suppressing tumor growth and improving overall survival. Based on these findings, many studies have been conducted to normalize each component of the tumor microenvironment, leading to the development of a variety of strategies. In this review, we provide an overview of the concepts of vascular and immune normalization and discuss some of the strategies employed to achieve these goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yechan Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Keehoon Jung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Rani B, Ignatz-Hoover JJ, Rana PS, Driscoll JJ. Current and Emerging Strategies to Treat Urothelial Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4886. [PMID: 37835580 PMCID: PMC10571746 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194886] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Urothelial cell carcinoma (UCC, bladder cancer, BC) remains a difficult-to-treat malignancy with a rising incidence worldwide. In the U.S., UCC is the sixth most incident neoplasm and ~90% of diagnoses are made in those >55 years of age; it is ~four times more commonly observed in men than women. The most important risk factor for developing BC is tobacco smoking, which accounts for ~50% of cases, followed by occupational exposure to aromatic amines and ionizing radiation. The standard of care for advanced UCC includes platinum-based chemotherapy and programmed cell death (PD-1) or programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors, administered as frontline, second-line, or maintenance therapy. UCC remains generally incurable and is associated with intrinsic and acquired drug and immune resistance. UCC is lethal in the metastatic state and characterized by genomic instability, high PD-L1 expression, DNA damage-response mutations, and a high tumor mutational burden. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) achieve long-term durable responses in other cancers, their ability to achieve similar results with metastatic UCC (mUCC) is not as well-defined. Here, we discuss therapies to improve UCC management and how comprehensive tumor profiling can identify actionable biomarkers and eventually fulfill the promise of precision medicine for UCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkha Rani
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (B.R.); (J.J.I.-H.); (P.S.R.)
| | - James J. Ignatz-Hoover
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (B.R.); (J.J.I.-H.); (P.S.R.)
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Adult Hematologic Malignancies & Stem Cell Transplant Section, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Priyanka S. Rana
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (B.R.); (J.J.I.-H.); (P.S.R.)
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Adult Hematologic Malignancies & Stem Cell Transplant Section, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - James J. Driscoll
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (B.R.); (J.J.I.-H.); (P.S.R.)
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Adult Hematologic Malignancies & Stem Cell Transplant Section, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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11
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Ye F, Dewanjee S, Li Y, Jha NK, Chen ZS, Kumar A, Vishakha, Behl T, Jha SK, Tang H. Advancements in clinical aspects of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:105. [PMID: 37415164 PMCID: PMC10324146 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01805-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women worldwide. The heterogeneity of this disease presents a big challenge in its therapeutic management. However, recent advances in molecular biology and immunology enable to develop highly targeted therapies for many forms of breast cancer. The primary objective of targeted therapy is to inhibit a specific target/molecule that supports tumor progression. Ak strain transforming, cyclin-dependent kinases, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and different growth factors have emerged as potential therapeutic targets for specific breast cancer subtypes. Many targeted drugs are currently undergoing clinical trials, and some have already received the FDA approval as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs for the treatment of different forms of breast cancer. However, the targeted drugs have yet to achieve therapeutic promise against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). In this aspect, immune therapy has come up as a promising therapeutic approach specifically for TNBC patients. Different immunotherapeutic modalities including immune-checkpoint blockade, vaccination, and adoptive cell transfer have been extensively studied in the clinical setting of breast cancer, especially in TNBC patients. The FDA has already approved some immune-checkpoint blockers in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs to treat TNBC and several trials are ongoing. This review provides an overview of clinical developments and recent advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapies for breast cancer treatment. The successes, challenges, and prospects were critically discussed to portray their profound prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Saikat Dewanjee
- Advanced Pharmacognosy Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Yuehua Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
- School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, India
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, New York, 11439, USA
| | - Ankush Kumar
- Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Career Point University, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Vishakha
- Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Career Point University, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Saurabh Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India.
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India.
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied & Life Sciences (SALS), Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India.
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
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12
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Dabiri H, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Habibi Anbouhi M, Mirzaee Godarzee M, Haddadi MH, Basiri M, Ziaei V, Sadeghizadeh M, Hajizadeh Saffar E. Site-specific transgene integration in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies. Biomark Res 2023; 11:67. [PMID: 37403182 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00509-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and natural killer (NK) cells are genetically engineered immune cells that can detect target antigens on the surface of target cells and eliminate them following adoptive transfer. Recent progress in CAR-based therapies has led to outstanding clinical success in certain patients with leukemias and lymphomas and offered therapeutic benefits to those resistant to conventional therapies. The universal approach to stable CAR transgene delivery into the T/NK cells is the use of viral particles. Such approaches mediate semi-random transgene insertions spanning the entire genome with a high preference for integration into sites surrounding highly-expressed genes and active loci. Regardless of the variable CAR expression level based on the integration site of the CAR transgene, foreign integrated DNA fragments may affect the neighboring endogenous genes and chromatin structure and potentially change a transduced T/NK cell behavior and function or even favor cellular transformation. In contrast, site-specific integration of CAR constructs using recent genome-editing technologies could overcome the limitations and disadvantages of universal random gene integration. Herein, we explain random and site-specific integration of CAR transgenes in CAR-T/NK cell therapies. Also, we tend to summarize the methods for site-specific integration as well as the clinical outcomes of certain gene disruptions or enhancements due to CAR transgene integration. Also, the advantages and limitations of using site-specific integration methods are discussed in this review. Ultimately, we will introduce the genomic safe harbor (GSH) standards and suggest some appropriate safety prospects for CAR integration in CAR-T/NK cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Dabiri
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohadeseh Mirzaee Godarzee
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohsen Basiri
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahab Ziaei
- National Cell Bank of Iran, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Sadeghizadeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ensiyeh Hajizadeh Saffar
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product Technology Development Center (ATMP-TDC), Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Dabiri H, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Habibi Anbouhi M, Mirzaee Godarzee M, Haddadi MH, Basiri M, Ziaei V, Sadeghizadeh M, Hajizadeh Saffar E. Site-specific transgene integration in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies. Biomark Res 2023; 11:67. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1186/s40364-023-00509-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and natural killer (NK) cells are genetically engineered immune cells that can detect target antigens on the surface of target cells and eliminate them following adoptive transfer. Recent progress in CAR-based therapies has led to outstanding clinical success in certain patients with leukemias and lymphomas and offered therapeutic benefits to those resistant to conventional therapies. The universal approach to stable CAR transgene delivery into the T/NK cells is the use of viral particles. Such approaches mediate semi-random transgene insertions spanning the entire genome with a high preference for integration into sites surrounding highly-expressed genes and active loci. Regardless of the variable CAR expression level based on the integration site of the CAR transgene, foreign integrated DNA fragments may affect the neighboring endogenous genes and chromatin structure and potentially change a transduced T/NK cell behavior and function or even favor cellular transformation. In contrast, site-specific integration of CAR constructs using recent genome-editing technologies could overcome the limitations and disadvantages of universal random gene integration. Herein, we explain random and site-specific integration of CAR transgenes in CAR-T/NK cell therapies. Also, we tend to summarize the methods for site-specific integration as well as the clinical outcomes of certain gene disruptions or enhancements due to CAR transgene integration. Also, the advantages and limitations of using site-specific integration methods are discussed in this review. Ultimately, we will introduce the genomic safe harbor (GSH) standards and suggest some appropriate safety prospects for CAR integration in CAR-T/NK cell therapies.
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14
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Czajka-Francuz P, Prendes MJ, Mankan A, Quintana Á, Pabla S, Ramkissoon S, Jensen TJ, Peiró S, Severson EA, Achyut BR, Vidal L, Poelman M, Saini KS. Mechanisms of immune modulation in the tumor microenvironment and implications for targeted therapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1200646. [PMID: 37427115 PMCID: PMC10325690 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1200646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of cancer therapies is limited to a great extent by immunosuppressive mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous immune escape mechanisms have been identified. These include not only processes associated with tumor, immune or stromal cells, but also humoral, metabolic, genetic and epigenetic factors within the TME. The identification of immune escape mechanisms has enabled the development of small molecules, nanomedicines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell and epigenetic therapies that can reprogram the TME and shift the host immune response towards promoting an antitumor effect. These approaches have translated into series of breakthroughs in cancer therapies, some of which have already been implemented in clinical practice. In the present article the authors provide an overview of some of the most important mechanisms of immunosuppression within the TME and the implications for targeted therapies against different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ángela Quintana
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Sandra Peiró
- Breast Cancer Unit, Vall d'Hebrón Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Kamal S. Saini
- Fortrea, Inc., Durham, NC, United States
- Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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15
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Mishra AK, Malonia SK. Advancing cellular immunotherapy with macrophages. Life Sci 2023:121857. [PMID: 37307965 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121857] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based immunotherapies have become an exciting avenue for cancer treatment, particularly CAR T cells, which have shown great success in treating hematological malignancies. However, the limited success of T cell-based approaches in treating solid tumors has sparked interest in alternative cell types that could be used for solid tumor immunotherapy. Recent research has pointed to macrophages as a potential solution, given their ability to infiltrate solid tumors, exhibit a strong anti-tumor response, and persist long-term in the tumor microenvironment. Although early attempts with ex-vivo activated macrophage-based therapies failed to translate into clinical success, the field has revolutionized with the recent development of chimeric antigen receptor-expressing macrophages (CAR-M). While CAR-M therapy has reached the clinical trial stage, several challenges still need to be overcome before the therapy can become a reality. Here we review the evolution of macrophage-based cell therapy and evaluate recent studies and developments, emphasizing the potential of macrophages as cellular therapeutics. Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with using macrophages as a basis for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok K Mishra
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| | - Sunil K Malonia
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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16
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Harrer DC, Bezler V, Hartley J, Herr W, Abken H. IRF4 downregulation improves sensitivity and endurance of CAR T cell functional capacities. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1185618. [PMID: 37287982 PMCID: PMC10243527 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1185618] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) modified T cells can induce complete remissions in patients with advanced hematological malignancies. Nevertheless, the efficacy is mostly transient and remains so far poor in the treatment of solid tumors. Crucial barriers to long-term CAR T cell success encompass loss of functional capacities known as "exhaustion", among others. To extend CAR T cell functionality, we reduced interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) levels in CAR T cells using a one-vector system encoding a specific short-hairpin (sh) RNA along with constitutive CAR expression. At baseline, CAR T cells with downregulated IRF4 showed equal cytotoxicity and cytokine release compared to conventional CAR T cells. However, under conditions of repetitive antigen encounter, IRF4low CAR T cells displayed enhanced functionality with superior cancer cell control in the long-term compared with conventional CAR T cells. Mechanistically, the downregulation of IRF4 in CAR T cells resulted in prolonged functional capacities and upregulation of CD27. Moreover, IRF4low CAR T cells were more sensitive to cancer cells with low levels of target antigen. Overall, IRF4 downregulation capacitates CAR T cells to recognize and respond to target cells with improved sensitivity and endurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christoph Harrer
- Dept. Hematology and Medical Oncology, Clinic III Internal Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Div. Genetic Immunotherapy, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Valerie Bezler
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Div. Genetic Immunotherapy, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jordan Hartley
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Div. Genetic Immunotherapy, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Herr
- Dept. Hematology and Medical Oncology, Clinic III Internal Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hinrich Abken
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Div. Genetic Immunotherapy, Regensburg, Germany
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17
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Hovhannisyan L, Riether C, Aebersold DM, Medová M, Zimmer Y. CAR T cell-based immunotherapy and radiation therapy: potential, promises and risks. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:82. [PMID: 37173782 PMCID: PMC10176707 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01775-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR T cell-based therapies have revolutionized the treatment of hematological malignancies such as leukemia and lymphoma within the last years. In contrast to the success in hematological cancers, the treatment of solid tumors with CAR T cells is still a major challenge in the field and attempts to overcome these hurdles have not been successful yet. Radiation therapy is used for management of various malignancies for decades and its therapeutic role ranges from local therapy to a priming agent in cancer immunotherapy. Combinations of radiation with immune checkpoint inhibitors have already proven successful in clinical trials. Therefore, a combination of radiation therapy may have the potential to overcome the current limitations of CAR T cell therapy in solid tumor entities. So far, only limited research was conducted in the area of CAR T cells and radiation. In this review we will discuss the potential and risks of such a combination in the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusine Hovhannisyan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, 3010, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Riether
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, 3010, Switzerland
| | - Daniel M Aebersold
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
| | - Michaela Medová
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland
| | - Yitzhak Zimmer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse 8, Bern, 3008, Switzerland.
- Department for Biomedical Research, Radiation Oncology, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Switzerland.
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18
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Transgenic HA-1-Specific CD8 + T-Lymphocytes Selectively Target Leukemic Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051592. [PMID: 36900382 PMCID: PMC10000933 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A significant share of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (allo-HSCT) results in the relapse of malignant disease. The T cell immune response to minor histocompatibility antigens (MiHAs) promotes a favorable graft-versus-leukemia response. The immunogenic MiHA HA-1 is a promising target for leukemia immunotherapy, as it is predominantly expressed in hematopoietic tissues and presented by the common HLA A*02:01 allele. Adoptive transfer of HA-1-specific modified CD8+ T cells could complement allo-HSCT from HA-1- donors to HA-1+ recipients. Using bioinformatic analysis and a reporter T cell line, we discovered 13 T cell receptors (TCRs) specific for HA-1. Their affinities were measured by the response of the TCR-transduced reporter cell lines to HA-1+ cells. The studied TCRs showed no cross-reactivity to the panel of donor peripheral mononuclear blood cells with 28 common HLA alleles. CD8+ T cells after endogenous TCR knock out and introduction of transgenic HA-1-specific TCR were able to lyse hematopoietic cells from HA-1+ patients with acute myeloid, T-, and B-cell lymphocytic leukemia (n = 15). No cytotoxic effect was observed on cells from HA-1- or HLA-A*02-negative donors (n = 10). The results support the use of HA-1 as a target for post-transplant T cell therapy.
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19
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Novel scFv against Notch Ligand JAG1 Suitable for Development of Cell Therapies toward JAG1-Positive Tumors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030459. [PMID: 36979394 PMCID: PMC10046313 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling ligand JAG1 is overexpressed in various aggressive tumors and is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Hence, therapies targeting oncogenic JAG1 hold great potential for the treatment of certain tumors. Here, we report the identification of specific anti-JAG1 single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), one of them endowing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells with cytotoxicity against JAG1-positive cells. Anti-JAG1 scFvs were identified from human phage display libraries, reformatted into full-length monoclonal antibodies (Abs), and produced in mammalian cells. The characterization of these Abs identified two specific anti-JAG1 Abs (J1.B5 and J1.F1) with nanomolar affinities. Cloning the respective scFv sequences in our second- and third-generation CAR backbones resulted in six anti-JAG1 CAR constructs, which were screened for JAG1-mediated T-cell activation in Jurkat T cells in coculture assays with JAG1-positive cell lines. Studies in primary T cells demonstrated that one CAR harboring the J1.B5 scFv significantly induced effective T-cell activation in the presence of JAG1-positive, but not in JAG1-knockout, cancer cells, and enabled specific killing of JAG1-positive cells. Thus, this new anti-JAG1 scFv represents a promising candidate for the development of cell therapies against JAG1-positive tumors.
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20
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Quach DH, Lulla P, Rooney CM. Banking on virus-specific T cells to fulfill the need for off-the-shelf cell therapies. Blood 2023; 141:877-885. [PMID: 36574622 PMCID: PMC10023738 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022016202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptively transferred virus-specific T cells (VSTs) have shown remarkable safety and efficacy for the treatment of virus-associated diseases and malignancies in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients, for whom VSTs are derived from the HSCT donor. Autologous VSTs have also shown promise for the treatment of virus-driven malignancies outside the HSCT setting. In both cases, VSTs are manufactured as patient-specific products, and the time required for procurement, manufacture, and release testing precludes their use in acutely ill patients. Further, Good Manufacturing Practices-compliant products are expensive, and failures are common in virus-naive HSCT donors and patient-derived VSTs that are rendered anergic by immunosuppressive tumors. Hence, highly characterized, banked VSTs (B-VSTs) that can be used for multiple unrelated recipients are highly desirable. The major challenges facing B-VSTs result from the inevitable mismatches in the highly polymorphic and immunogenic human leukocyte antigens (HLA) that present internally processed antigens to the T-cell receptor, leading to the requirement for partial HLA matching between the B-VST and recipient. HLA mismatches lead to rapid rejection of allogeneic T-cell products and graft-versus-host disease induced by alloreactive T cells in the infusion product. Here, we summarize the clinical outcomes to date of trials of B-VSTs used for the treatment of viral infections and malignancies and their potential as a platform for chimeric antigen receptors targeting nonviral tumors. We will highlight the properties of VSTs that make them attractive off-the-shelf cell therapies, as well as the challenges that must be overcome before they can become mainstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H. Quach
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Premal Lulla
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Cliona M. Rooney
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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21
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Maalej KM, Merhi M, Inchakalody VP, Mestiri S, Alam M, Maccalli C, Cherif H, Uddin S, Steinhoff M, Marincola FM, Dermime S. CAR-cell therapy in the era of solid tumor treatment: current challenges and emerging therapeutic advances. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:20. [PMID: 36717905 PMCID: PMC9885707 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01723-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has emerged as a promising immunotherapeutic approach to fight cancers. This approach consists of genetically engineered immune cells expressing a surface receptor, called CAR, that specifically targets antigens expressed on the surface of tumor cells. In hematological malignancies like leukemias, myeloma, and non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas, adoptive CAR-T cell therapy has shown efficacy in treating chemotherapy refractory patients. However, the value of this therapy remains inconclusive in the context of solid tumors and is restrained by several obstacles including limited tumor trafficking and infiltration, the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, as well as adverse events associated with such therapy. Recently, CAR-Natural Killer (CAR-NK) and CAR-macrophages (CAR-M) were introduced as a complement/alternative to CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. CAR-NK cells could be a favorable substitute for CAR-T cells since they do not require HLA compatibility and have limited toxicity. Additionally, CAR-NK cells might be generated in large scale from several sources which would suggest them as promising off-the-shelf product. CAR-M immunotherapy with its capabilities of phagocytosis, tumor-antigen presentation, and broad tumor infiltration, is currently being investigated. Here, we discuss the emerging role of CAR-T, CAR-NK, and CAR-M cells in solid tumors. We also highlight the advantages and drawbacks of CAR-NK and CAR-M cells compared to CAR-T cells. Finally, we suggest prospective solutions such as potential combination therapies to enhance the efficacy of CAR-cells immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karama Makni Maalej
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Varghese P. Inchakalody
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarra Mestiri
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Majid Alam
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Cristina Maccalli
- grid.467063.00000 0004 0397 4222Laboratory of Immune and Biological Therapy, Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Honar Cherif
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Hematology, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.416973.e0000 0004 0582 4340Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar ,grid.412603.20000 0004 0634 1084College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar ,grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Francesco M. Marincola
- grid.418227.a0000 0004 0402 1634Global Head of Research, Kite Pharma, Santa Monica, California USA
| | - Said Dermime
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar ,grid.452146.00000 0004 1789 3191College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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22
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Zhang K, Chen H, Li F, Huang S, Chen F, Li Y. Bright future or blind alley? CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1045024. [PMID: 36761757 PMCID: PMC9902507 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1045024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells therapy has emerged as a significant breakthrough in adoptive immunotherapy for hematological malignancies with FDA approval. However, the application of CAR-T cell therapy in solid tumors remains challenging, mostly due to lack of suitable CAR-T target antigens, insufficient trafficking and extravasation to tumor sites, and limited CAR-T survival in the hostile tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we reviewed the development of CARs and the clinical trials in solid tumors. Meanwhile, a "key-and-lock" relationship was used to describe the recognition of tumor antigen via CAR T cells. Some strategies, including dual-targets and receptor system switches or filter, have been explored to help CAR T cells matching targets specifically and to minimize on-target/off-tumor toxicities in normal tissues. Furthermore, the complex TME restricts CAT T cells activity through dense extracellular matrix, suppressive immune cells and cytokines. Recent innovations in engineered CARs to shield the inhibitory signaling molecules were also discussed, which efficiently promote CAR T functions in terms of expansion and survival to overcome the hurdles in the TME of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhang
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, Yunnan, China,Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fuqiang Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Sheng Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Breast Cancer Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, Yunnan, China,Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China,*Correspondence: Yi Li,
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23
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Nasiri F, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Rahbarizadeh F. T-cells engineered with a novel VHH-based chimeric antigen receptor against CD19 exhibit comparable tumoricidal efficacy to their FMC63-based counterparts. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1063838. [PMID: 36875091 PMCID: PMC9978144 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1063838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has established itself as a potent therapeutic option for certain patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) hematologic malignancies. To date, four CD19-redirected CAR-T cell products have been granted the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for medical use. However, all of these products are equipped with a single-chain fragment variable (scFv) as their targeting domains. Camelid single-domain antibodies (VHH or nanobody) can also be used as alternatives to scFvs. In this study, we developed VHH-based CD19-redirected CAR-Ts, and compared them with their FMC63 scFv-based counterpart. Methods Human primary T cells were transduced to express a second-generation 4-1BB-CD3ζ-based CAR construct whose targeting domain was based on a CD19-specific VHH. The expansion rate, cytotoxicity, and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α) of the developed CAR-Ts were assessed and compared with their FMC63 scFv-based counterpart as they were co-cultured with CD19-positive (Raji and Ramos) and CD19-negative (K562) cell lines. Results VHH-CAR-Ts showed an expansion rate comparable to that of the scFv-CAR-Ts. In terms of cytotoxicity, VHH-CAR-Ts mediated cytolytic reactions against CD19-positive cell lines, comparable to those of their scFv-based counterparts. Moreover, both VHH-CAR-Ts and scFv-CAR-Ts secreted remarkably higher and similar levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α upon co-cultivation with Ramos and Raji cell lines compared with while cultured alone or co-cultured with K562 cells. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that our VHH-CAR-Ts could mediate CD19-dependent tumoricidal reactions as potently as their scFv-based counterparts. Moreover, VHHs could be applied as the targeting domains of CAR constructs to overcome the issues associated with the use of scFvs in CAR-T therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nasiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rahbarizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Research and Development Center of Biotechnology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Daei Sorkhabi A, Mohamed Khosroshahi L, Sarkesh A, Mardi A, Aghebati-Maleki A, Aghebati-Maleki L, Baradaran B. The current landscape of CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors: Mechanisms, research progress, challenges, and counterstrategies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1113882. [PMID: 37020537 PMCID: PMC10067596 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1113882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The successful outcomes of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in treating hematologic cancers have increased the previously unprecedented excitement to use this innovative approach in treating various forms of human cancers. Although researchers have put a lot of work into maximizing the effectiveness of these cells in the context of solid tumors, few studies have discussed challenges and potential strategies to overcome them. Restricted trafficking and infiltration into the tumor site, hypoxic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), antigen escape and heterogeneity, CAR T-cell exhaustion, and severe life-threatening toxicities are a few of the major obstacles facing CAR T-cells. CAR designs will need to go beyond the traditional architectures in order to get over these limitations and broaden their applicability to a larger range of malignancies. To enhance the safety, effectiveness, and applicability of this treatment modality, researchers are addressing the present challenges with a wide variety of engineering strategies as well as integrating several therapeutic tactics. In this study, we reviewed the antigens that CAR T-cells have been clinically trained to recognize, as well as counterstrategies to overcome the limitations of CAR T-cell therapy, such as recent advances in CAR T-cell engineering and the use of several therapies in combination to optimize their clinical efficacy in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Daei Sorkhabi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Aila Sarkesh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Mardi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Aghebati-Maleki
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Leili Aghebati-Maleki, ; Behzad Baradaran,
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Leili Aghebati-Maleki, ; Behzad Baradaran,
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25
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Kim YJ, Li W, Zhelev DV, Mellors JW, Dimitrov DS, Baek DS. Chimeric antigen receptor-T cells are effective against CEACAM5 expressing non-small cell lung cancer cells resistant to antibody-drug conjugates. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1124039. [PMID: 36923424 PMCID: PMC10010383 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1124039] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cells and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are promising therapeutic strategies in oncology. The carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5 (CEACAM5) is overexpressed in tumors including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and is an attractive target for therapies based on CAR-T cell or/and ADCs. We previously developed a highly specific antibody-based CAR-T cells targeting CEACAM5 and the tumoricidal effect of CAR-T cells was proved against neuro-endocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) cells expressing CEACAM5. Here, we compare the anti-tumor efficacy of our CAR-T cells with that of an anti-CEACAM5 ADC being clinically evaluated against NSCLC. Our anti-CEACAM5 CAR-T cells showed cytotoxicity in a CEACAM5 surface concentration dependent manner and reduced tumor growth in both ADC-responsive and -non-responsive CEACAM5-expressing NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, the ADC exhibited cytotoxicity independent on the CEACAM5 cell surface concentration. Even though clinical translation of CEACAM5 targeting CAR-T cell therapies is still in preclinical stage, our CAR-T cell approach could provide a potential therapeutic strategy for CEACAM5-positive cancer patients with resistance to ADCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Jin Kim
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Doncho V Zhelev
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - John W Mellors
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Abound Bio, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Dimiter S Dimitrov
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Abound Bio, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Du-San Baek
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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26
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Qin Y, Xu G. Enhancing CAR T-cell therapies against solid tumors: Mechanisms and reversion of resistance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1053120. [PMID: 36569859 PMCID: PMC9773088 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1053120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, belonging to adoptive immune cells therapy, utilizes engineered immunoreceptors to enhance tumor-specific killing. By now new generations of CAR T-cell therapies dramatically promote the effectiveness and robustness in leukemia cases. However, only a few CAR T-cell therapies gain FDA approval till now, which are applied to hematologic cancers. Targeting solid tumors through CAR T-cell therapies still faces many problems, such as tumor heterogeneity, antigen loss, infiltration inability and immunosuppressive micro-environment. Recent advances provide new insights about the mechanisms of CAR T-cell therapy resistance and give rise to potential reversal therapies. In this review, we mainly introduce existing barriers when treating solid tumors with CAR T-cells and discuss the methods to overcome these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Qin
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China,Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guotai Xu
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China,Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Guotai Xu,
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27
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Xu T, Wang C, Chen X, Bai J, Wang E, Sun M. Coexpression of c-Jun in multiple-chain DAP-CAR-engineered T-cells for solid tumor therapy. Immunotherapy 2022; 14:1457-1466. [PMID: 36597720 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2022-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This work was designed to explore whether c-Jun overexpression could improve the persistence and antitumor efficacy of DAP chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) cells. Methods: The in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of mesothelin (MSLN) targeting DAP-CAR-T cells were verified by ELISA, real-time cell analysis and in a xenograft model. Results: c-Jun overexpression did not affect DAP-CAR-T cell expansion while slightly increasing IL-2 secretion. Moreover, c-Jun did not improve the antitumor efficacy of DAP-CAR-T cells in vitro or in vivo, but reduced LAG3 expression and increased the ratio of Tcm and Tn/Tscm cells in vivo. Conclusion: The findings indicate that coexpression with c-Jun in DAP-CAR-T cells slightly improves T-cell exhaustion and central memory phenotype maintenance, which may be useful for DAP-CAR-T cell therapy in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongpeng Xu
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Nanjing CART Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Nanjing, 210032, China
| | - Xiaomei Chen
- Nanjing CART Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Nanjing, 210032, China
| | - Jian Bai
- Nanjing CART Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Nanjing, 210032, China
| | - Enxiu Wang
- Nanjing CART Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Nanjing, 210032, China.,Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China.,Clinical Pathological Diagnosis & Research Center, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China.,The Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology (Hepatobiliary Diseases) of Guangxi, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Ming Sun
- Suzhou Cancer Center Core Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Baita West Road #16, Suzhou, 215001, China
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28
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Nasiri F, Kazemi M, Mirarefin SMJ, Mahboubi Kancha M, Ahmadi Najafabadi M, Salem F, Dashti Shokoohi S, Evazi Bakhshi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell therapy in triple-negative breast cancer: Hunting the invisible devil. Front Immunol 2022; 13. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as the most intricate and hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer. TNBC cells do not express the well-known estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expressed by other breast cancer subtypes. This phenomenon leaves no room for novel treatment approaches including endocrine and HER2-specific antibody therapies. To date, surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy remain the principal therapy options for TNBC treatment. However, in numerous cases, these approaches either result in minimal clinical benefit or are nonfunctional, resulting in disease recurrence and poor prognosis. Nowadays, chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy is becoming more established as an option for the treatment of various types of hematologic malignancies. CAR-Ts are genetically engineered T lymphocytes that employ the body’s immune system mechanisms to selectively recognize cancer cells expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) of interest and efficiently eliminate them. However, despite the clinical triumph of CAR-T therapy in hematologic neoplasms, CAR-T therapy of solid tumors, including TNBC, has been much more challenging. In this review, we will discuss the success of CAR-T therapy in hematological neoplasms and its caveats in solid tumors, and then we summarize the potential CAR-T targetable TAAs in TNBC studied in different investigational stages.
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29
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Nasiri F, Kazemi M, Mirarefin SMJ, Mahboubi Kancha M, Ahmadi Najafabadi M, Salem F, Dashti Shokoohi S, Evazi Bakhshi S, Safarzadeh Kozani P, Safarzadeh Kozani P. CAR-T cell therapy in triple-negative breast cancer: Hunting the invisible devil. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018786. [PMID: 36483567 PMCID: PMC9722775 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as the most intricate and hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer. TNBC cells do not express the well-known estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expressed by other breast cancer subtypes. This phenomenon leaves no room for novel treatment approaches including endocrine and HER2-specific antibody therapies. To date, surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy remain the principal therapy options for TNBC treatment. However, in numerous cases, these approaches either result in minimal clinical benefit or are nonfunctional, resulting in disease recurrence and poor prognosis. Nowadays, chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy is becoming more established as an option for the treatment of various types of hematologic malignancies. CAR-Ts are genetically engineered T lymphocytes that employ the body's immune system mechanisms to selectively recognize cancer cells expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) of interest and efficiently eliminate them. However, despite the clinical triumph of CAR-T therapy in hematologic neoplasms, CAR-T therapy of solid tumors, including TNBC, has been much more challenging. In this review, we will discuss the success of CAR-T therapy in hematological neoplasms and its caveats in solid tumors, and then we summarize the potential CAR-T targetable TAAs in TNBC studied in different investigational stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nasiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Production Platforms & Analytics, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mehrasa Kazemi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Thalassemia Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Maral Mahboubi Kancha
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Milad Ahmadi Najafabadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faeze Salem
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Setareh Dashti Shokoohi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Evazi Bakhshi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pouya Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pooria Safarzadeh Kozani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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30
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Ghazi B, El Ghanmi A, Kandoussi S, Ghouzlani A, Badou A. CAR T-cells for colorectal cancer immunotherapy: Ready to go? Front Immunol 2022; 13:978195. [PMID: 36458008 PMCID: PMC9705989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.978195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells represent a new genetically engineered cell-based immunotherapy tool against cancer. The use of CAR T-cells has revolutionized the therapeutic approach for hematological malignancies. Unfortunately, there is a long way to go before this treatment can be developed for solid tumors, including colorectal cancer. CAR T-cell therapy for colorectal cancer is still in its early stages, and clinical data are scarce. Major limitations of this therapy include high toxicity, relapses, and an impermeable tumor microenvironment for CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer. In this review, we summarize current knowledge, highlight challenges, and discuss perspectives regarding CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra Ghazi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Adil El Ghanmi
- Mohammed VI International University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sarah Kandoussi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Amina Ghouzlani
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
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31
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Boudin L, de Nonneville A, Finetti P, Mescam L, Le Cesne A, Italiano A, Blay JY, Birnbaum D, Mamessier E, Bertucci F. CSPG4 expression in soft tissue sarcomas is associated with poor prognosis and low cytotoxic immune response. Lab Invest 2022; 20:464. [PMID: 36221119 PMCID: PMC9552405 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03679-y] [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: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are heterogeneous and pro-metastatic tumors. Identification of accurate prognostic factors and novel therapeutic targets are crucial. CSPG4 is a cell surface proteoglycan with oncogenic functions. It recently emerged as a potential target for immunotherapy, including cell therapy based on CSPG4-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-redirected cytokine-induced killer lymphocytes (CSPG4-CAR.CIKs) in STS. However, expression of CSPG4 is poorly known in STS so far. Methods We analyzed CSPG4 gene expression in 1378 localized STS clinical samples, and searched for correlations with clinicopathological data, including disease-free survival (DFS), and with tumor immune features. Results CSPG4 expression was heterogeneous across samples. High expression was associated with younger patients’ age, more frequent undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma and myxofibrosarcoma pathological subtypes, more frequent internal trunk tumor site, and more CINSARC high-risk samples. No correlation existed with pathological tumor size and grade, and tumor depth. Patients with high CSPG4 expression displayed 49% (95% CI 42–57) 5-year DFS versus 61% (95% CI 56–68) in patients with low expression (p = 3.17E−03), representing a 49% increased risk of event in the “CSPG4-high” group (HR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.14–1.94). This unfavorable prognostic value persisted in multivariate analysis, independently from other variables. There were significant differences in immune variables between “CSPG4-high” and “CSPG4-low” tumors. The "CSPG4-low" tumors displayed profiles suggesting higher anti-tumor cytotoxic immune response and higher potential vulnerability to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). By contrast, the "CSPG4-high" tumors displayed profiles implying an immune-excluded tumor microenvironment, potentially induced by hypoxia, resulting from an immature chaotic microvasculature, and/or the presence of contractile myofibroblasts. Conclusions Patients with “CSPG4-high” STS, theoretically candidate for CAR.CIKs, display shorter DFS and an immune environment unfavorable to vulnerability to CAR.CIKs, which could be improved by combining anti-angiogenic drugs able to normalize the tumor vasculature. By contrast, “CSPG4-low” STS are better candidates for immune therapy involving ICI. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03679-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurys Boudin
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France
| | - A de Nonneville
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Finetti
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France
| | - Léna Mescam
- French Sarcoma Group, Lyon, France.,Department of Pathology, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 232 Bd. Sainte-Marguerite, 13009, Marseille, France
| | - A Le Cesne
- French Sarcoma Group, Lyon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Antoine Italiano
- French Sarcoma Group, Lyon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Yves Blay
- French Sarcoma Group, Lyon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, UNICANCER &, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Daniel Birnbaum
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Mamessier
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France
| | - François Bertucci
- Laboratory of Predictive Oncology, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM UMR1068, CNRS UMR725, Marseille, France. .,Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France. .,French Sarcoma Group, Lyon, France.
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32
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Intestinal Microbiota: The Driving Force behind Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194796. [PMID: 36230724 PMCID: PMC9564057 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194796] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the great achievements of cancer immunotherapy in a variety of tumors, tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance still plague patients and clinical researchers. In particular, the occurrence of immune-related adverse events forces patients to discontinue cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, it is urgent to optimize cancer immunotherapy and improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. With the iteration of sequencing technology, the microbiome, as the second set of genomes in the body, has been proven to be involved in immunity and metabolism. More and more studies are gradually shifting the perspective to the intestinal microbiota and cancer immunotherapy. The intestinal microbiota reactivates and modulates immune cells in immunotherapy and is expected to become a biomarker for predicting immune efficacy. Targeting to improve the intestinal microbiota can enhance anti-tumor immunity. This advantage is beneficial to control related adverse symptoms and expand the beneficiary population of cancer immunotherapy. This finding can help clinicians comprehensively evaluate the effect of tumor screening and tumor treatment. Therefore, the innovative combination of gut microbiota and cancer immunotherapy is expected to be an active strategy to enhance individualized immune responses. Abstract In recent years, cancer immunotherapy has become a breakthrough method to solve solid tumors. It uses immune checkpoint inhibitors to interfere with tumor immune escape to coordinate anti-tumor therapy. However, immunotherapy has an individualized response rate. Moreover, immune-related adverse events and drug resistance are still urgent issues that need to be resolved, which may be attributed to the immune imbalance caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors. Microbiome research has fully revealed the metabolic-immune interaction relationship between the microbiome and the host. Surprisingly, sequencing technology further proved that intestinal microbiota could effectively intervene in tumor immunotherapy and reduce the incidence of adverse events. Therefore, cancer immunotherapy under the intervention of intestinal microbiota has innovatively broadened the anti-tumor landscape and is expected to become an active strategy to enhance individualized responses.
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