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Zhou Z, Mai Y, Zhang G, Wang Y, Sun P, Jing Z, Li Z, Xu Y, Han B, Liu J. Emerging role of immunogenic cell death in cancer immunotherapy: Advancing next-generation CAR-T cell immunotherapy by combination. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217079. [PMID: 38936505 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a stress-driven form of regulated cell death (RCD) in which dying tumor cells' specific signaling pathways are activated to release damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), leading to the robust anti-tumor immune response as well as a reversal of the tumor immune microenvironment from "cold" to "hot". Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, as a landmark in anti-tumor immunotherapy, plays a formidable role in hematologic malignancies but falls short in solid tumors. The Gordian knot of CAR-T cells for solid tumors includes but is not limited to, tumor antigen heterogeneity or absence, physical and immune barriers of tumors. The combination of ICD induction therapy and CAR-T cell immunotherapy is expected to promote the intensive use of CAR-T cell in solid tumors. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of ICD, stress-responsive mechanism, and the synergistic effect of various ICD-based therapies with CAR-T cells to effectively improve anti-tumor capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaokai Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yumiao Mai
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Province Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury and Repair, Henan Province Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yingjie Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Pan Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Zhaohe Jing
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Zhengrui Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yudi Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
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Bugakova AS, Chudakova DA, Myzina MS, Yanysheva EP, Ozerskaya IV, Soboleva AV, Baklaushev VP, Yusubalieva GM. Non-Tumor Cells within the Tumor Microenvironment-The "Eminence Grise" of the Glioblastoma Pathogenesis and Potential Targets for Therapy. Cells 2024; 13:808. [PMID: 38786032 PMCID: PMC11119139 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignancy of the central nervous system in adults. GBM has high levels of therapy failure and its prognosis is usually dismal. The phenotypic heterogeneity of the tumor cells, dynamic complexity of non-tumor cell populations within the GBM tumor microenvironment (TME), and their bi-directional cross-talk contribute to the challenges of current therapeutic approaches. Herein, we discuss the etiology of GBM, and describe several major types of non-tumor cells within its TME, their impact on GBM pathogenesis, and molecular mechanisms of such an impact. We also discuss their value as potential therapeutic targets or prognostic biomarkers, with reference to the most recent works on this subject. We conclude that unless all "key player" populations of non-tumor cells within the TME are considered, no breakthrough in developing treatment for GBM can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra S. Bugakova
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria A. Chudakova
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria S. Myzina
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elvira P. Yanysheva
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
| | - Iuliia V. Ozerskaya
- Pulmonology Research Institute, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alesya V. Soboleva
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir P. Baklaushev
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Pulmonology Research Institute, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Medical Nanobiotechnology of Medical and Biological Faculty, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gaukhar M. Yusubalieva
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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3
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Saito S, Kono M, Nguyen HC, Egloff AM, Messier C, Lizotte P, Paweletz C, Adkins D, Uppaluri R. Targeting Dendritic Cell Dysfunction to Circumvent Anti-PD1 Resistance in Head and Neck Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:1934-1944. [PMID: 38372707 PMCID: PMC11061605 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-3477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neoadjuvant anti-PD1 (aPD1) therapies are being explored in surgically resectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Encouraging responses have been observed, but further insights into the mechanisms underlying resistance and approaches to improve responses are needed. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We integrated data from syngeneic mouse oral carcinoma (MOC) models and neoadjuvant pembrolizumab HNSCC patient tumor RNA-sequencing data to explore the mechanism of aPD1 resistance. Tumors and tumor-draining lymph nodes (DLN) from MOC models were analyzed for antigen-specific priming. CCL5 expression was enforced in an aPD1-resistant model. RESULTS An aPD1-resistant mouse model showed poor priming in the tumor DLN due to type 1 conventional dendritic cell (cDC1) dysfunction, which correlated with exhausted and poorly responsive antigen-specific T cells. Tumor microenvironment analysis also showed decreased cDC1 in aPD1-resistant tumors compared with sensitive tumors. Following neoadjuvant aPD1 therapy, pathologic responses in patients also positively correlated with baseline transcriptomic cDC1 signatures. In an aPD1-resistant model, intratumoral cDC1 vaccine was sufficient to restore aPD1 response by enhancing T-cell infiltration and increasing antigen-specific responses with improved tumor control. Mechanistically, CCL5 expression significantly correlated with neoadjuvant aPD1 response and enforced expression of CCL5 in an aPD1-resistant model, enhanced cDC1 tumor infiltration, restored antigen-specific responses, and recovered sensitivity to aPD1 treatment. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight the contribution of tumor-infiltrating cDC1 in HNSCC aPD1 response and approaches to enhance cDC1 infiltration and function that may circumvent aPD1 resistance in patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Saito
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michihisa Kono
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hoang C.B. Nguyen
- Department of Surgery/Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ann Marie Egloff
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Surgery/Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Cameron Messier
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Lizotte
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Cloud Paweletz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Douglas Adkins
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
- Department of Medicine/Medical Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ravindra Uppaluri
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Surgery/Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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4
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Wang Z, Li M, Bi L, Hu X, Wang Y. Traditional Chinese Medicine in Regulating Tumor Microenvironment. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:313-325. [PMID: 38617090 PMCID: PMC11016250 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s444214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and integrated system containing a variety of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and stromal cells. They are closely connected with cancer cells and influence the development and progression of cancer. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an important complementary therapy for cancer treatment in China. It mainly eliminates cancer cells by regulating TME. The aim of this review is to systematically summarize the crosstalk between tumor cells and TME, and to summarize the research progress of TCM in regulating TME. The review is of great significance in revealing the therapeutic mechanism of action of TCM, and provides an opportunity for the combined application of TCM and immunotherapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengyao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Bi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xueqing Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China
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5
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Guo M, Liu MYR, Brooks DG. Regulation and impact of tumor-specific CD4 + T cells in cancer and immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2024; 45:303-313. [PMID: 38508931 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2024.02.005] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
CD4+ T cells are crucial in generating and sustaining immune responses. They orchestrate and fine-tune mammalian innate and adaptive immunity through cell-based interactions and the release of cytokines. The role of these cells in contributing to the efficacy of antitumor immunity and immunotherapy has just started to be uncovered. Yet, many aspects of the CD4+ T cell response are still unclear, including the differentiation pathways controlling such cells during cancer progression, the external signals that program them, and how the combination of these factors direct ensuing immune responses or immune-restorative therapies. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding CD4+ T cell regulation during cancer progression and the importance of CD4+ T cells in immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Guo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa Yi Ran Liu
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David G Brooks
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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6
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Liu Y, Wu J, Hao H. Antitumor immunostimulatory activity of the traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharide on hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369110. [PMID: 38455058 PMCID: PMC10917928 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignancy, often associated with compromised immune function in affected patients. This can be attributed to the secretion of specific factors by liver cancer cells, which hinder the immune response and lead to a state of immune suppression. Polysaccharides derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are valuable constituents known for their immunomodulatory properties. This review aims to look into the immunomodulatory effects of TCM polysaccharides on HCC. The immunomodulatory effects of TCM polysaccharides are primarily manifested through the activation of effector T lymphocytes, dendritic cells, NK cells, and macrophages against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) both in vivo and in vitro settings. Furthermore, TCM polysaccharides have demonstrated remarkable adjuvant antitumor immunomodulatory effects on HCC in clinical settings. Therefore, the utilization of TCM polysaccharides holds promising potential for the development of novel therapeutic agents or adjuvants with advantageous immunomodulatory properties for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
- Basic Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
| | - Jiawen Wu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
- Basic Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
| | - Huiqin Hao
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
- Basic Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, China
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7
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Tai Y, Chen M, Wang F, Fan Y, Zhang J, Cai B, Yan L, Luo Y, Li Y. The role of dendritic cells in cancer immunity and therapeutic strategies. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 128:111548. [PMID: 38244518 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are asserted as the most potent antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that orchestrate both innate and adaptive immunity, being extremely effective in the induction of robust anti-cancer T cell responses. Hence, the modulation of DCs function represents an attractive target for improving cancer immunotherapy efficacy. A better understanding of the immunobiology of DCs, the interaction among DCs, immune effector cells and tumor cells in tumor microenvironment (TME) and the latest advances in biomedical engineering technology would be required for the design of optimal DC-based immunotherapy. In this review, we focus on elaborating the immunobiology of DCs in healthy and cancer environments, the recent advances in the development of enhancing endogenous DCs immunocompetence via immunomodulators as well as DC-based vaccines. The rapidly developing field of applying nanotechnology to improve DC-based immunotherapy is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunze Tai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Man Chen
- Hebei Yanda Lu Daopei Hospital, Langfang 065201, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Kaili, Guizhou 556000, China
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Organ Transplantation Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Xiang, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junlong Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bei Cai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lin Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yao Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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8
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DePeaux K, Delgoffe GM. Integrating innate and adaptive immunity in oncolytic virus therapy. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:135-146. [PMID: 37880008 PMCID: PMC10922271 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs), viruses engineered to lyse tumor cells, work hand in hand with the immune response. While for decades the field isolated lytic capability and viral spread to increase response to virotherapy, there is now a wealth of research that demonstrates the importance of immunity in the OV mechanism of action. In this review, we will cover how OVs interact with the innate immune system to fully activate the adaptive immune system and yield exceptional tumor clearances as well as look forward at combination therapies which can improve clinical responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin DePeaux
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Greg M Delgoffe
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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9
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Moussion C, Delamarre L. Antigen cross-presentation by dendritic cells: A critical axis in cancer immunotherapy. Semin Immunol 2024; 71:101848. [PMID: 38035643 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells that play a key role in shaping adaptive immunity. DCs have a unique ability to sample their environment, capture and process exogenous antigens into peptides that are then loaded onto major histocompatibility complex class I molecules for presentation to CD8+ T cells. This process, called cross-presentation, is essential for initiating and regulating CD8+ T cell responses against tumors and intracellular pathogens. In this review, we will discuss the role of DCs in cancer immunity, the molecular mechanisms underlying antigen cross-presentation by DCs, the immunosuppressive factors that limit the efficiency of this process in cancer, and approaches to overcome DC dysfunction and therapeutically promote antitumoral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lélia Delamarre
- Cancer Immunology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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10
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Foley CR, Swan SL, Swartz MA. Engineering Challenges and Opportunities in Autologous Cellular Cancer Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:188-198. [PMID: 38166251 PMCID: PMC11155266 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of a patient's own immune or tumor cells, manipulated ex vivo, enables Ag- or patient-specific immunotherapy. Despite some clinical successes, there remain significant barriers to efficacy, broad patient population applicability, and safety. Immunotherapies that target specific tumor Ags, such as chimeric Ag receptor T cells and some dendritic cell vaccines, can mount robust immune responses against immunodominant Ags, but evolving tumor heterogeneity and antigenic downregulation can drive resistance. In contrast, whole tumor cell vaccines and tumor lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccines target the patient's unique tumor antigenic repertoire without prior neoantigen selection; however, efficacy can be weak when lower-affinity clones dominate the T cell pool. Chimeric Ag receptor T cell and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapies additionally face challenges related to genetic modification, T cell exhaustion, and immunotoxicity. In this review, we highlight some engineering approaches and opportunities to these challenges among four classes of autologous cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen R. Foley
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sheridan L. Swan
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Melody A. Swartz
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Ben May Department of Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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11
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Qin YT, Liu XH, An JX, Liang JL, Li CX, Jin XK, Ji P, Zhang XZ. Dendritic Cell-Based In Situ Nanovaccine for Reprogramming Lipid Metabolism to Boost Tumor Immunotherapy. ACS NANO 2023; 17:24947-24960. [PMID: 38055727 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer vaccines have been considered to be an alternative therapeutic strategy for tumor therapy in the past decade. However, the popularity and efficacy of cancer vaccines were hampered by tumor antigen heterogeneity and the impaired function of cross-presentation in the tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells (TIDCs). To overcome these challenges, we engineered an in situ nanovaccine (named as TPOP) based on lipid metabolism-regulating and innate immune-stimulated nanoparticles. TPOP could capture tumor antigens and induce specific recognition by TIDCs to be taken up. Meanwhile, TPOP could manipulate TIDC lipid metabolism and inhibit de novo synthesis of fatty acids, thus improving the ability of TIDCs to cross-present by reducing their lipid accumulation. Significantly, intratumoral injection of TPOP combined with pretreatment with doxorubicin showed a considerable therapeutic effect in the subcutaneous mouse colorectal cancer model and melanoma model. Moreover, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, such TPOP could markedly inhibit the growth of distant tumors by systemic antitumor immune responses. This work provides a safe and promising strategy for improving the function of immune cells by manipulating their metabolism and activating the immune system effectively for in situ cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Teng Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Hua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Xin An
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Long Liang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Chu-Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Kang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Ji
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
| | - Xian-Zheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
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12
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CHEN QIUQIANG, GUO XUEJUN, MA WENXUE. Opportunities and challenges of CD47-targeted therapy in cancer immunotherapy. Oncol Res 2023; 32:49-60. [PMID: 38188674 PMCID: PMC10767231 DOI: 10.32604/or.2023.042383] [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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of cancer, with the tumor microenvironment (TME) playing a pivotal role in modulating the immune response. CD47, a cell surface protein, has been identified as a crucial regulator of the TME and a potential therapeutic target for cancer therapy. However, the precise functions and implications of CD47 in the TME during immunotherapy for cancer patients remain incompletely understood. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of CD47's multifaced role in TME regulation and immune evasion, elucidating its impact on various types of immunotherapy outcomes, including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy. Notably, CD47-targeted therapies offer a promising avenue for improving cancer treatment outcomes, especially when combined with other immunotherapeutic approaches. The review also discusses current and potential CD47-targeted therapies being explored for cancer treatment and delves into the associated challenges and opportunities inherent in targeting CD47. Despite the demonstrated effectiveness of CD47-targeted therapies, there are potential problems, including unintended effects on healthy cells, hematological toxicities, and the development if resistance. Consequently, further research efforts are warranted to fully understand the underlying mechanisms of resistance and to optimize CD47-targeted therapies through innovative combination approaches, ultimately improving cancer treatment outcomes. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the significance of CD47 as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy and provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities in developing effective CD47-targeted therapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- QIUQIANG CHEN
- Key Laboratory for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Huzhou University School of Medicine, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - XUEJUN GUO
- Department of Hematology, Puyang Youtian General Hospital, Puyang, 457001, China
| | - WENXUE MA
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, Sanford Stem Cell Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, 92093, USA
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13
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Sun Z, Zhang L, Liu L. Reprogramming the lipid metabolism of dendritic cells in tumor immunomodulation and immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115574. [PMID: 37757492 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115574] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells in the human body. They detect and process environmental signals and communicate with T cells to bridge innate and adaptive immunity. Cell activation, function, and survival are closely associated with cellular metabolism. An increasing number of studies have revealed that lipid metabolism affects DC activation as well as innate and acquired immune responses. Combining lipid metabolic regulation with immunotherapy can strengthen the ability of antigen-presentation and T-cell activation of DCs, improve the existing anti-tumor therapy, and overcome the defects of DC-related therapies in the current stage, which has great potential in cancer therapy. This review summarizes the lipid metabolism of DCs under physiological conditions, analyzes the role of reprogramming the lipid metabolism of DCs in tumor immune regulation, and discusses potential immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanbo Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Lingyun Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Lixian Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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14
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Li H, Dai X, Zhou L, Nie J, Cheng H, Gao P. Ferroptosis-related gene MTF-1 as a novel prognostic biomarker in low-grade glioma and its correlation with immune infiltration. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21159. [PMID: 38027604 PMCID: PMC10643104 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Metal-responsive transcription factor-1 performs a necessary position in a range of cancers. It is unknown, though, how the prognosis of patients with low-grade gliomas is related to immune infiltration. Method The Cancer Genome Atlas database was used in this investigation to evaluate MTF-1 transcription in low-grade glioma and healthy brain tissues, and immunohistochemistry was used to confirm MTF-1 levels. By using functional enrichment analysis and R software, the putative biological roles and signaling pathways connected to MTF-1 in LGG as well as its prognostic significance were investigated. Further research was done on the connection involving MTF-1 and tumor mutational burden in LGG. Finally, the research evaluated how MTF-1 and immune cell infiltration are related. Results We noticed that the WHO grade, 1p/19q codeletion, and older age were all substantially linked with MTF-1 overexpression in low-grade gliomas. OS and disease-specific survival were significantly lowered as a result of MTF-1 transcription. MTF-1 was recognized as an independent OS prognostic predictor with a poor prognosis by multifactorial Cox analysis. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the primary enrichment pathways were chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation and the generation of miRNAs implicated in gene suppression by miRNA. Additionally, there was a negative correlation between MTF-1 overexpression and the degree of immune cell infiltration in neutrophils and DC. Conclusion MTF-1 may be a novel prognostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaixu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
| | - Xingliang Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
- Department of Research & Development, East China Institute of Digital Medical Engineering, Shangrao, 334000, PR China
| | - Lv Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
| | - Jianyu Nie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
| | - Hongwei Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, PR China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, PR China
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15
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Singh S, Barik D, Arukha AP, Prasad S, Mohapatra I, Singh A, Singh G. Small Molecule Targeting Immune Cells: A Novel Approach for Cancer Treatment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2621. [PMID: 37892995 PMCID: PMC10604364 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional and cancer immunotherapies encompass diverse strategies to address various cancer types and stages. However, combining these approaches often encounters limitations such as non-specific targeting, resistance development, and high toxicity, leading to suboptimal outcomes in many cancers. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is orchestrated by intricate interactions between immune and non-immune cells dictating tumor progression. An innovative avenue in cancer therapy involves leveraging small molecules to influence a spectrum of resistant cell populations within the TME. Recent discoveries have unveiled a phenotypically diverse cohort of innate-like T (ILT) cells and tumor hybrid cells (HCs) exhibiting novel characteristics, including augmented proliferation, migration, resistance to exhaustion, evasion of immunosurveillance, reduced apoptosis, drug resistance, and heightened metastasis frequency. Leveraging small-molecule immunomodulators to target these immune players presents an exciting frontier in developing novel tumor immunotherapies. Moreover, combining small molecule modulators with immunotherapy can synergistically enhance the inhibitory impact on tumor progression by empowering the immune system to meticulously fine-tune responses within the TME, bolstering its capacity to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This review outlines strategies involving small molecules that modify immune cells within the TME, potentially revolutionizing therapeutic interventions and enhancing the anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Debashis Barik
- Center for Computational Natural Science and Bioinformatics, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad 500032, Telangana, India
| | | | | | - Iteeshree Mohapatra
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Amar Singh
- Schulze Diabetes Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Gatikrushna Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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16
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Mestrallet G, Brown M, Bozkus CC, Bhardwaj N. Immune escape and resistance to immunotherapy in mismatch repair deficient tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1210164. [PMID: 37492581 PMCID: PMC10363668 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1210164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 30% of colorectal, endometrial and gastric cancers have a deficiency in mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression due to either germline or epigenetic inactivation. Patients with Lynch Syndrome who inherit an inactive MMR allele have an up to 80% risk for developing a mismatch repair deficient (MMRd) cancer. Due to an inability to repair DNA, MMRd tumors present with genomic instability in microsatellite regions (MS). Tumors with high MS instability (MSI-H) are characterized by an increased frequency of insertion/deletions (indels) that can encode novel neoantigens if they occur in coding regions. The high tumor antigen burden for MMRd cancers is accompanied by an inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME) that contributes to the clinical effectiveness of anti-PD-1 therapy in this patient population. However, between 40 and 70% of MMRd cancer patients do not respond to treatment with PD-1 blockade, suggesting that tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic resistance mechanisms may affect the success of checkpoint blockade. Immune evasion mechanisms that occur during early tumorigenesis and persist through cancer development may provide a window into resistance pathways that limit the effectiveness of anti-PD-1 therapy. Here, we review the mechanisms of immune escape in MMRd tumors during development and checkpoint blockade treatment, including T cell dysregulation and myeloid cell-mediated immunosuppression in the TME. Finally, we discuss the development of new therapeutic approaches to tackle resistance in MMRd tumors, including cancer vaccines, therapies targeting immunosuppressive myeloid programs, and immune checkpoint combination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Mestrallet
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Hess Center for Science & Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matthew Brown
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Hess Center for Science & Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Cansu Cimen Bozkus
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Hess Center for Science & Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Nina Bhardwaj
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Hess Center for Science & Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Extramural member, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, United States
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17
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Dong H, Li Q, Zhang Y, Ding M, Teng Z, Mou Y. Biomaterials Facilitating Dendritic Cell-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301339. [PMID: 37088780 PMCID: PMC10288267 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based cancer immunotherapy has exhibited remarkable clinical prospects because DCs play a central role in initiating and regulating adaptive immune responses. However, the application of traditional DC-mediated immunotherapy is limited due to insufficient antigen delivery, inadequate antigen presentation, and high levels of immunosuppression. To address these challenges, engineered biomaterials have been exploited to enhance DC-mediated immunotherapeutic effects. In this review, vital principal components that can enhance DC-mediated immunotherapeutic effects are first introduced. The parameters considered in the rational design of biomaterials, including targeting modifications, size, shape, surface, and mechanical properties, which can affect biomaterial optimization of DC functions, are further summarized. Moreover, recent applications of various engineered biomaterials in the field of DC-mediated immunotherapy are reviewed, including those serve as immune component delivery platforms, remodel the tumor microenvironment, and synergistically enhance the effects of other antitumor therapies. Overall, the present review comprehensively and systematically summarizes biomaterials related to the promotion of DC functions; and specifically focuses on the recent advances in biomaterial designs for DC activation to eradicate tumors. The challenges and opportunities of treatment strategies designed to amplify DCs via the application of biomaterials are discussed with the aim of inspiring the clinical translation of future DC-mediated cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Dong
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Qiang Li
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Meng Ding
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Zhaogang Teng
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information DisplaysJiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsInstitute of Advanced MaterialsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Centre for Advanced MaterialsNanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications9 Wenyuan RoadNanjingJiangsu210023P. R. China
| | - Yongbin Mou
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
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18
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Lybaert L, Thielemans K, Feldman SA, van der Burg SH, Bogaert C, Ott PA. Neoantigen-directed therapeutics in the clinic: where are we? Trends Cancer 2023; 9:503-519. [PMID: 37055237 PMCID: PMC10414146 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy have brought immunotherapy to the forefront of cancer treatment; however, only subsets of patients benefit from current approaches. Neoantigen-driven therapeutics specifically redirect the immune system of the patient to enable or reinduce its ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. The tumor specificity of this strategy spares healthy and normal cells from being attacked. Consistent with this concept, initial clinical trials have demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and immunogenicity of neoantigen-directed personalized vaccines. We review neoantigen-driven therapy strategies as well as their promise and clinical successes to date.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Steven A Feldman
- Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sjoerd H van der Burg
- Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Patrick A Ott
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
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19
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The Journey of Cancer Cells to the Brain: Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043854. [PMID: 36835266 PMCID: PMC9967224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043854] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastases into the brain constitute one of the most severe, but not uncommon, manifestations of cancer progression. Several factors control how cancer cells interact with the brain to establish metastasis. These factors include mediators of signaling pathways participating in migration, infiltration of the blood-brain barrier, interaction with host cells (e.g., neurons, astrocytes), and the immune system. Development of novel therapies offers a glimpse of hope for increasing the diminutive life expectancy currently forecasted for patients suffering from brain metastasis. However, applying these treatment strategies has not been sufficiently effective. Therefore, there is a need for a better understanding of the metastasis process to uncover novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we follow the journey of various cancer cells from their primary location through the diverse processes that they undergo to colonize the brain. These processes include EMT, intravasation, extravasation, and infiltration of the blood-brain barrier, ending up with colonization and angiogenesis. In each phase, we focus on the pathways engaging molecules that potentially could be drug target candidates.
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20
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Neoantigens: promising targets for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:9. [PMID: 36604431 PMCID: PMC9816309 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 176.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in neoantigen research have accelerated the development and regulatory approval of tumor immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy and antibody-based therapies, especially for solid tumors. Neoantigens are newly formed antigens generated by tumor cells as a result of various tumor-specific alterations, such as genomic mutation, dysregulated RNA splicing, disordered post-translational modification, and integrated viral open reading frames. Neoantigens are recognized as non-self and trigger an immune response that is not subject to central and peripheral tolerance. The quick identification and prediction of tumor-specific neoantigens have been made possible by the advanced development of next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic technologies. Compared to tumor-associated antigens, the highly immunogenic and tumor-specific neoantigens provide emerging targets for personalized cancer immunotherapies, and serve as prospective predictors for tumor survival prognosis and immune checkpoint blockade responses. The development of cancer therapies will be aided by understanding the mechanism underlying neoantigen-induced anti-tumor immune response and by streamlining the process of neoantigen-based immunotherapies. This review provides an overview on the identification and characterization of neoantigens and outlines the clinical applications of prospective immunotherapeutic strategies based on neoantigens. We also explore their current status, inherent challenges, and clinical translation potential.
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Toward Establishing an Ideal Adjuvant for Non-Inflammatory Immune Enhancement. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244006. [PMID: 36552770 PMCID: PMC9777512 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The vertebrate immune system functions to eliminate invading foreign nucleic acids and foreign proteins from infectious diseases and malignant tumors. Because pathogens and cancer cells have unique amino acid sequences and motifs (e.g., microbe-associated molecular patterns, MAMPs) that are recognized as "non-self" to the host, immune enhancement is one strategy to eliminate invading cells. MAMPs contain nucleic acids specific or characteristic of the microbe and are potential candidates for immunostimulants or adjuvants. Adjuvants are included in many vaccines and are a way to boost immunity by deliberately administering them along with antigens. Although adjuvants are an important component of vaccines, it is difficult to evaluate their efficacy ex vivo and in vivo on their own (without antigens). In addition, inflammation induced by currently candidate adjuvants may cause adverse events, which is a hurdle to their approval as drugs. In addition, the lack of guidelines for evaluating the safety and efficacy of adjuvants in drug discovery research also makes regulatory approval difficult. Viral double-stranded (ds) RNA mimics have been reported as potent adjuvants, but the safety barrier remains unresolved. Here we present ARNAX, a noninflammatory nucleic acid adjuvant that selectively targets Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) in antigen-presenting dendritic cells (APCs) to safely induce antigen cross-presentation and subsequently induce an acquired immune response independent of inflammation. This review discusses the challenges faced in the clinical development of novel adjuvants.
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