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Mazerolles F. New expression of PD-L1 on activated CD4 + T cells opens up new opportunities for cell interactions and signaling. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110831. [PMID: 38870593 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110831] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Surface expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is mainly observed on antigen presenting cells (APC) such as monocytes or dendritic cells (DCs). Our results showing a high expression of PD-L1 on human naïve CD4+ effector T-cells (TEFFs) and CD4+ regulatory T cells (TREGs) after activation with human DCs, allow us to propose a new role for PD-L1 and its ligands and their potential impact on new signaling pathways. Indeed, expression of PD-L1 on activated CD4+T cells could allow cis interaction with its ligands such as PD-1 and CD80, thus disrupting interactions with other signaling receptors, such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) or CD28, which interact with CD80. The ability to compete with hypothetical configuration modifications that may cause a change in affinity/avidity for the trans and cis interactions between these proteins expressed on T cells and/or DCs is discussed. As the study of cancer is strongly influenced by the role of the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway and CD4+T cells, new interactions, cis and/or trans, between TEFFs, TREGs and tumor cells are also proposed. The presence of PD-L1 on activated CD4+ T cells could influence the quality of the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response during priming to provide other help signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Mazerolles
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics of Paediatric Autoimmunity, Mixed Research Unit 1163, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France; Imagine Institute Paris, Paris Descartes -Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France.
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2
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Webb MJ, Sangsuwannukul T, van Vloten J, Evgin L, Kendall B, Tonne J, Thompson J, Metko M, Moore M, Chiriboga Yerovi MP, Olin M, Borgatti A, McNiven M, Monga SPS, Borad MJ, Melcher A, Roberts LR, Vile R. Expression of tumor antigens within an oncolytic virus enhances the anti-tumor T cell response. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5442. [PMID: 38937436 PMCID: PMC11211353 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49286-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Although patients benefit from immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy in a broad variety of tumors, resistance may arise from immune suppressive tumor microenvironments (TME), which is particularly true of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Since oncolytic viruses (OV) can generate a highly immune-infiltrated, inflammatory TME, OVs could potentially restore ICI responsiveness via recruitment, priming, and activation of anti-tumor T cells. Here we find that on the contrary, an oncolytic vesicular stomatitis virus, expressing interferon-ß (VSV-IFNß), antagonizes the effect of anti-PD-L1 therapy in a partially anti-PD-L1-responsive model of HCC. Cytometry by Time of Flight shows that VSV-IFNß expands dominant anti-viral effector CD8 T cells with concomitant relative disappearance of anti-tumor T cell populations, which are the target of anti-PD-L1. However, by expressing a range of HCC tumor antigens within VSV, combination OV and anti-PD-L1 therapeutic benefit could be restored. Our data provide a cautionary message for the use of highly immunogenic viruses as tumor-specific immune-therapeutics by showing that dominant anti-viral T cell responses can inhibit sub-dominant anti-tumor T cell responses. However, through encoding tumor antigens within the virus, oncolytic virotherapy can generate anti-tumor T cell populations upon which immune checkpoint blockade can effectively work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mason J Webb
- Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | | | - Jacob van Vloten
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Laura Evgin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V5Z1L3, Canada
- Michael Smith Genome Sciences Department, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, V5Z1L3, Canada
| | - Benjamin Kendall
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jason Tonne
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jill Thompson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Muriel Metko
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Madelyn Moore
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | | | - Michael Olin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Antonella Borgatti
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Clinical Investigation Center, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA
| | - Mark McNiven
- Mayo Center for Biomedical Discovery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Satdarshan P S Monga
- Pittsburgh Liver Institute, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Mitesh J Borad
- Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Alan Melcher
- Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging, Institute of Cancer Research, Chester Beatty Laboratories, London, SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Lewis R Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Richard Vile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Joan Reece Department of Immuno-oncology, King's College London, London, UK.
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3
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Zarlashat Y, Mushtaq H, Pham L, Abbas W, Sato K. Advancements in Immunotherapeutic Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Potential of Combination Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6830. [PMID: 38999940 PMCID: PMC11241106 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136830] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most prevalent cancer and a significant global health burden, with increasing incidence rates and limited treatment options. Immunotherapy has become a promising approach due to its ability to affect the immune microenvironment and promote antitumor responses. The immune microenvironment performs an essential role in both the progression and the development of HCC, with different characteristics based on specific immune cells and etiological factors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, including programmed death-1/programmed death-ligand 1 inhibitors (pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and durvalumab) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 inhibitors (tremelimumab and ipilimumab), have the potential to treat advanced HCC and overcome adverse effects, such as liver failure and chemoresistance. Phase II and phase III clinical trials highlight the efficacy of pembrolizumab and nivolumab, respectively, in advanced HCC patients, as demonstrated by their positive effects on overall survival and progression-free survival. Tremelimumab has exhibited modest response rates, though it does possess antiviral activity. Thus, it is still being investigated in ongoing clinical trials. Combination therapies with multiple drugs have demonstrated potential benefits in terms of survival and tumor response rates, improving patient outcomes compared to monotherapy, especially for advanced-stage HCC. This review addresses the clinical trials of immunotherapies for early-, intermediate-, and advanced-stage HCC. Additionally, it highlights how combination therapy can significantly enhance overall survival, progression-free survival, and objective response rate in advanced-stage HCC, where treatment options are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusra Zarlashat
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Mushtaq
- Health Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-C (NIBGE), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad 45650, Pakistan
| | - Linh Pham
- Department of Science and Mathematics, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Killeen, TX 76549, USA
| | - Wasim Abbas
- Health Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-C (NIBGE), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad 45650, Pakistan
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Yan C, Du W, Kirkwood KL, Wang Y, Zhou W, Li Z, Tian Y, Lin S, Zheng L, Al-Aroomi MA, Gao J, Jiang S, Sun C, Liu F. CCR7 affects the tumor microenvironment by regulating the activation of naïve CD8 + T cells to promote the proliferation of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101924. [PMID: 38430712 PMCID: PMC10920962 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101924] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common head and neck cancer, being one of the leading causes of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. CC Chemokine receptor 7(CCR7) is a multifunctional G protein-coupled trans-membrane chemokine that affects immune cell chemotaxis, migration, and cancer progression through its interaction with its ligands C-C motif chemokine ligand 19(CCL19) and C-C motif chemokine ligand 21(CCL21). Numerous studies have demonstrated the involvement of CCR7 in the malignant progression of a variety of cancers, reflecting the pro-cancer properties of CCR7. The Cancer Genome Atlas data suggests CCR7 has elevated expression in oral cancer. Specifically, CCR7 expression in tumor microenvironment (TME) may regulate the ability of some immune cells to engage in anti-tumor immune responses. Since CD8+ T cells have become a key immunotherapeutic target, the role of CCR7 in antitumor immune response of naïve CD8+ T cells in TME has not been thoroughly investigated. METHODS A CCR7 knockout mouse model was constructed, and the mechanism of ccr7 on the regulation of tumor microenvironment by naïve CD8+ T cells was verified under the guidance of single-cell RNA sequencing combined with in vivo animal experiments and in vitro cell experiments. RESULTS CCR7 is knocked out with impaired tumor growth and altered CD8+ T cell profiles, revealing the importance of this protein in OSCC. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of CCR7 enhances CD8+ T cell activation, proliferation, and anti-tumor function, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Yan
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Weidong Du
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Keith L Kirkwood
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214-8006, USA
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Wanhang Zhou
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Zhenning Li
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Shanfeng Lin
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Maged Ali Al-Aroomi
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Jiaxing Gao
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Changfu Sun
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China
| | - Fayu Liu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, 117 Nanjing North Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, PR China.
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5
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Ouologuem L, Bartel K. Endolysosomal transient receptor potential mucolipins and two-pore channels: implications for cancer immunity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389194. [PMID: 38840905 PMCID: PMC11150529 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Past research has identified that cancer cells sustain several cancer hallmarks by impairing function of the endolysosomal system (ES). Thus, maintaining the functional integrity of endolysosomes is crucial, which heavily relies on two key protein families: soluble hydrolases and endolysosomal membrane proteins. Particularly members of the TPC (two-pore channel) and TRPML (transient receptor potential mucolipins) families have emerged as essential regulators of ES function as a potential target in cancer therapy. Targeting TPCs and TRPMLs has demonstrated significant impact on multiple cancer hallmarks, including proliferation, growth, migration, and angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, endosomes and lysosomes also actively participate in various immune regulatory mechanisms, such as phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and the release of proinflammatory mediators. Yet, knowledge about the role of TPCs and TRPMLs in immunity is scarce. This prompts a discussion regarding the potential role of endolysosomal ion channels in aiding cancers to evade immune surveillance and destruction. Specifically, understanding the interplay between endolysosomal ion channels and cancer immunity becomes crucial. Our review aims to comprehensively explore the current knowledge surrounding the roles of TPCs and TRPMLs in immunity, whilst emphasizing the critical need to elucidate their specific contributions to cancer immunity by pointing out current research gaps that should be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karin Bartel
- Department of Pharmacy, Drug Delivery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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6
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Wu LY, Park SH, Jakobsson H, Shackleton M, Möller A. Immune Regulation and Immune Therapy in Melanoma: Review with Emphasis on CD155 Signalling. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1950. [PMID: 38893071 PMCID: PMC11171058 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16111950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is commonly diagnosed in a younger population than most other solid malignancies and, in Australia and most of the world, is the leading cause of skin-cancer-related death. Melanoma is a cancer type with high immunogenicity; thus, immunotherapies are used as first-line treatment for advanced melanoma patients. Although immunotherapies are working well, not all the patients are benefitting from them. A lack of a comprehensive understanding of immune regulation in the melanoma tumour microenvironment is a major challenge of patient stratification. Overexpression of CD155 has been reported as a key factor in melanoma immune regulation for the development of therapy resistance. A more thorough understanding of the actions of current immunotherapy strategies, their effects on immune cell subsets, and the roles that CD155 plays are essential for a rational design of novel targets of anti-cancer immunotherapies. In this review, we comprehensively discuss current anti-melanoma immunotherapy strategies and the immune response contribution of different cell lineages, including tumour endothelial cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, cytotoxic T cells, cancer-associated fibroblast, and nature killer cells. Finally, we explore the impact of CD155 and its receptors DNAM-1, TIGIT, and CD96 on immune cells, especially in the context of the melanoma tumour microenvironment and anti-cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ying Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia;
- JC STEM Lab, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Su-Ho Park
- JC STEM Lab, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Haakan Jakobsson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia;
| | - Mark Shackleton
- Department of Medical Oncology, Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia;
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Andreas Möller
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia;
- JC STEM Lab, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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7
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Lin L, Zhang S, Yang W. Comment on "An Injectable Hydrogel to Modulate T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy". SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2302812. [PMID: 38072801 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202302812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Recent clinical successes of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies represents a milestone as a novel anti-tumor strategy beyond surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy in cancer therapy. T cells, especially CD8+ T cells, play crucial roles in anti-tumor immune responses. However, most T cells in the tumor microenvironment express high inhibitory receptors, such as PD-1, TIM-3, and LAG-3, and decreased T cell response in response to stimuli. Applying ICB therapies, such as anti-PD-1, promotes T cell activation and increases cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response, leading to the enhanced anti-tumor immune response in patients with malignancy. Therefore, studies aimed to define novel targets that can restrain T cell terminal exhaustion are urgently required to provide new strategies for patients resistant to immunotherapy. The previously published study by Zhang et al. (An Injectable Hydrogel to Modulate T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy, https://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202202663) introduces a new type of injectable hydrogel that can regulate the function of T cells, thereby improving their effectiveness in cancer immunotherapy. However, it remains to be discussed for its conclusion, as the flow cell assay of this article may not be proper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangbin Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu, 610014, China
| | - Sunfu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu, 610014, China
| | - Wenyong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu, 610014, China
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Tseng TS, Lee CC, Chen PJ, Lin CY, Chen WC, Lee YC, Lin JH, Chen KW, Tsai KC. Structure-Guided Discovery of PD-1/PD-L1 Interaction Inhibitors: Peptide Design, Screening, and Optimization via Computation-Aided Phage Display Engineering. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:1615-1627. [PMID: 38356220 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c01500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy harnesses the immune system to combat tumors and has emerged as a major cancer treatment modality. The PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint modulates interactions between tumor cells and T cells and has been extensively targeted in cancer immunotherapy. However, the monoclonal antibodies known to target this immune checkpoint have considerable side effects, and novel PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are therefore required. Herein, a peptide inhibitor to disrupt PD-1/PD-L1 interactions was designed through structure-driven phage display engineering coupled to computational modification and optimization. BetaPb, a novel peptide library constructed by using the known structure of PD-1/PD-L, was used to develop inhibitors against the immune checkpoint, and specific peptides with high affinity toward PD-1 were screened through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence, and biolayer interferometry. A potential inhibitor, B8, was preliminarily screened through biopanning. The binding affinity of B8 toward PD-1 was confirmed through computation-aided optimization. Assessment of B8 variants (B8.1, B8.2, B8.3, B8.4, and B8.5) demonstrated their attenuation of PD-1/PD-L1 interactions. B8.4 exhibited the strongest attenuation efficiency at a half-maximal effective concentration of 0.1 μM and the strongest binding affinity to PD-1 (equilibrium dissociation constant = 0.1 μM). B8.4 outperformed the known PD-1/PD-L1 interaction inhibitor PL120131 in disrupting PD-1/PD-L1 interactions, revealing that B8.4 has remarkable potential for modification to yield an antitumor agent. This study provides valuable information for the future development of peptide-based drugs, therapeutics, and immunotherapies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tien-Sheng Tseng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40202, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chang Lee
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Po-Juei Chen
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40202, Taiwan
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Yuen Lin
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Chuan Chen
- The School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824005, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung 824005, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ching Lee
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jiun-Han Lin
- Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taipei 100210, Taiwan
- Food Industry Research and Development Institute, Hsinchu 30062, Taiwan
| | - Kaun-Wen Chen
- Molecular Science and Digital Innovation Center, Genetics Generation Advancement Corporation, Taipei 11949, Taiwan
| | - Keng-Chang Tsai
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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9
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Luo X, He X, Zhang X, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Shi Y, Hua S. Hepatocellular carcinoma: signaling pathways, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e474. [PMID: 38318160 PMCID: PMC10838672 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer with a high mortality rate. It is regarded as a significant public health issue because of its complicated pathophysiology, high metastasis, and recurrence rates. There are no obvious symptoms in the early stage of HCC, which often leads to delays in diagnosis. Traditional treatment methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and interventional therapies have limited therapeutic effects for HCC patients with recurrence or metastasis. With the development of molecular biology and immunology, molecular signaling pathways and immune checkpoint were identified as the main mechanism of HCC progression. Targeting these molecules has become a new direction for the treatment of HCC. At present, the combination of targeted drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors is the first choice for advanced HCC patients. In this review, we mainly focus on the cutting-edge research of signaling pathways and corresponding targeted therapy and immunotherapy in HCC. It is of great significance to comprehensively understand the pathogenesis of HCC, search for potential therapeutic targets, and optimize the treatment strategies of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Luo
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xin He
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xingmei Zhang
- Department of NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Yuzhe Zhang
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Yusheng Shi
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Shengni Hua
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
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10
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Spiliopoulou P, Kaur P, Hammett T, Di Conza G, Lahn M. Targeting T regulatory (T reg) cells in immunotherapy-resistant cancers. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2024; 7:2. [PMID: 38318526 PMCID: PMC10838381 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Primary or secondary (i.e., acquired) resistance is a common occurrence in cancer patients and is often associated with high numbers of T regulatory (Treg) cells (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+). The approval of ipilimumab and the development of similar pharmacological agents targeting cell surface proteins on Treg cells demonstrates that such intervention may overcome resistance in cancer patients. Hence, the clinical development and subsequent approval of Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Antigen-4 (CTLA-4) targeting agents can serve as a prototype for similar agents. Such new agents aspire to be highly specific and have a reduced toxicity profile while increasing effector T cell function or effector T/T regulatory (Teff/Treg) ratio. While clinical development with large molecules has shown the greatest advancement, small molecule inhibitors that target immunomodulation are increasingly entering early clinical investigation. These new small molecule inhibitors often target specific intracellular signaling pathways [e.g., phosphoinositide-3-kinase delta (PI3K-δ)] that play an important role in regulating the function of Treg cells. This review will summarize the lessons currently applied to develop novel clinical agents that target Treg cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlina Spiliopoulou
- Department of Drug Development Program, Phase I Unit, Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Center, Glasgow G12 0YN, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Paramjit Kaur
- Department of Oncology Clinical Development, iOnctura SA, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
| | - Tracey Hammett
- Department of Oncology Clinical Development, iOnctura SA, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
| | - Giusy Di Conza
- Department of Oncology Clinical Development, iOnctura SA, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
| | - Michael Lahn
- Department of Oncology Clinical Development, iOnctura SA, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
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11
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Hou C, Wang Z, Lu X. Impact of immunosenescence and inflammaging on the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors. CANCER PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPY 2024; 2:24-30. [PMID: 38328711 PMCID: PMC10846300 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpt.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are employed in immunotherapeutic applications for patients with weakened immune systems and can improve the ability of T cells to kill cancer cells. Although ICIs can potentially treat different types of cancers in various groups of patients, their effectiveness may differ among older individuals. The reason ICIs are less effective in older adults is not yet clearly understood, but age-related changes in the immune system, such as immunosenescence and inflammation, may play a role. Therefore, this review focuses on recent advances in understanding the effects of immunosenescence and inflammation on the efficacy of ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuandong Hou
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Zining Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Xuechun Lu
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
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12
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Xiao Y, Li ZZ, Zhong NN, Cao LM, Liu B, Bu LL. Charting new frontiers: Co-inhibitory immune checkpoint proteins in therapeutics, biomarkers, and drug delivery systems in cancer care. Transl Oncol 2023; 38:101794. [PMID: 37820473 PMCID: PMC10582482 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a major health concern globally. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) target co-inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules and have received approval for treating malignancies like melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. While CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 are extensively researched, additional targets such as LAG-3, TIGIT, TIM-3, and VISTA have also demonstrated effective in cancer therapy. Combination treatments, which pair ICIs with interventions such as radiation or chemotherapy, amplify therapeutic outcomes. However, ICIs can lead to diverse side effects, and their varies across patients and cancers. Hence, identifying predictive biomarkers to guide therapy is essential. Notably, expression levels of molecules like PD-1, CTLA-4, and LAG-3 have been linked to tumor progression and ICI therapy responsiveness. Recent advancements in drug delivery systems (DDSs) further enhance ICI therapy efficacy. This review explores predominant DDSs for ICI delivery, such as hydrogel, microparticle, and nanoparticle, which offer improved therapeutic effects and reduced toxicity. In summary, we discuss the future of immune therapy focusing on co-inhibitory checkpoint molecules, pinpoint challenges, and suggest avenues for developing efficient, safer DDSs for ICI transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Zi-Zhan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Lei-Ming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial - Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial - Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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Vile R, Webb M, van Vloten J, Evgin L, Sangsuwannukul T, Kendall B, Tonne J, Thompson J, Metko M, Moore M, Yerovi MC, McNiven M, Monga S, Borad M, Roberts L. Chimerization of the Anti-Viral CD8 + T Cell Response with A Broad Anti-Tumor T Cell Response Reverses Inhibition of Checkpoint Blockade Therapy by Oncolytic Virotherapy. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3576281. [PMID: 38045348 PMCID: PMC10690324 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3576281/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Although immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) has produced profound survival benefits in a broad variety of tumors, a proportion of patients do not respond. Treatment failure is in part due to immune suppressive tumor microenvironments (TME), which is particularly true of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Since oncolytic viruses (OV) can generate a highly immune-infiltrated, inflammatory TME, we developed a vesicular stomatitis virus expressing interferon-ß (VSV-IFNß) as a viro-immunotherapy against HCC. Since HCC standard of care atezolizumab/bevacizumab incorporates ICI, we tested the hypothesis that pro-inflammatory VSV-IFNß would recruit, prime, and activate anti-tumor T cells, whose activity anti-PD-L1 ICI would potentiate. However, in a partially anti-PD-L1-responsive model of HCC, addition of VSV-IFNß abolished anti-PD-L1 therapy. Cytometry by Time of Flight showed that VSV-IFNß expanded dominant anti-viral effector CD8 T cells with concomitant, relative disappearance of anti-tumor T cell populations which are the target of anti-PD-L1. However, by expressing a range of HCC tumor antigens within VSV, the potent anti-viral response became amalgamated with an anti-tumor T cell response generating highly significant cures compared to anti-PD-L1 ICI alone. Our data provide a cautionary message for the use of highly immunogenic viruses as tumor-specific immune-therapeutics by showing that dominant anti-viral T cell responses can inhibit sub-dominant anti-tumor T cell responses. However, by chimerizing anti-viral and anti-tumor T cell responses through encoding tumor antigens within the virus, oncolytic virotherapy can be purposed for very effective immune driven tumor clearance and can generate anti-tumor T cell populations upon which immune checkpoint blockade can effectively work.
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14
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Wu Q, Pan C, Zhou Y, Wang S, Xie L, Zhou W, Ding L, Chen T, Qian J, Su R, Gao X, Mei Z, Qiao Y, Yin S, Wu Y, Wang J, Zhou L, Zheng S. Targeting neuropilin-1 abolishes anti-PD-1-upregulated regulatory T cells and synergizes with 4-1BB agonist for liver cancer treatment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1402-1417. [PMID: 36811396 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are an obstacle to PD-1 blockade-mediated antitumor efficacy. However, the behaviors of Tregs response to anti-PD-1 in HCC and the characteristics of Tregs tissue adaptation from peripheral lymphoid tissues to the tumor are still unclear. APPROACH RESULTS Here, we determine that PD-1 monotherapy potentially augments the accumulation of tumor CD4 + Tregs. Mechanistically, anti-PD-1 mediates Tregs proliferation in lymphoid tissues rather than in the tumor. Increased peripheral Tregs burden replenishes intratumoral Tregs, raising the ratio of intratumoral CD4 + Tregs to CD8 + T cells. Subsequently, single-cell transcriptomics revealed that neuropilin-1 (Nrp-1) supports Tregs migration behavior, and the genes of Crem and Tnfrsf9 regulate the behaviors of the terminal suppressive Tregs. Nrp-1 + 4-1BB - Tregs stepwise develop to the Nrp-1 - 4-1BB + Tregs from lymphoid tissues into the tumor. Moreover, Treg-restricted Nrp1 depletion abolishes anti-PD-1-upregulated intratumoral Tregs burden and synergizes with the 4-1BB agonist to enhance the antitumor response. Finally, a combination of the Nrp-1 inhibitor and the 4-1BB agonist in humanized HCC models showed a favorable and safe outcome and evoked the antitumor effect of the PD-1 blockade. CONCLUSION Our findings elucidate the potential mechanism of anti-PD-1-mediated intratumoral Tregs accumulation in HCC and uncover the tissue adaptation characteristics of Tregs and identify the therapeutic potential of targeting Nrp-1 and 4-1BB for reprogramming the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinchuan Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Caixu Pan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Liver Transplantation, Shulan Hospital, Zhejiang Shuren University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liting Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wuhua Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Limin Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianchi Chen
- Department of vascular surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingxing Gao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhibin Mei
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiting Qiao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengyong Yin
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Lyvgen Biopharma, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Lin Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Liver Transplantation, Shulan Hospital, Zhejiang Shuren University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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15
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Liao H, Yang J, Xu Y, Xie J, Li K, Chen K, Pei J, Luo Q, Pan M. Mannose-Binding Lectin 2 as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Multi-Omics Analysis and Experimental Validation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4900. [PMID: 37835594 PMCID: PMC10571644 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mannose-binding lectin 2 (MBL2), a member of the multimeric lectin family, is crucial in immune regulation and tumor development. MBL2 gene polymorphisms are associated with the risk and prognosis of various tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its functional role in HCC remains largely unclear. In this study, we aimed to identify whether MBL2 is a key regulator and a potential therapeutic target for HCC. A bioinformatics analysis revealed close relationships among MBL2 downregulation, the tumor-associated proliferation and metastasis pathway, and tumor immunosuppressive microenvironments. Lower expression of MBL2 in HCC patients was linked to an unfavorable prognosis. A cell counting kit-8 assay, colony formation assay, transwell migration assay, and wound healing assay further confirmed that the overexpression of MBL2 could directly inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of HCC. Moreover, MBL2 expression was regulated by miR-34c-3p, as confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay, thereby demonstrating tumor progression in HCC cells. Thus, our study offers the first comprehensive confirmation of the role of MBL2 in the development of HCC through multi-omics analysis and experimental validation. Furthermore, miR-34c-3p was found to be an upstream mechanism of the downregulation of MBL2 expression and could be a promising therapeutic target, expanding treatment options for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangyu Liao
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Jun Yang
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Yuyan Xu
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Juncheng Xie
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Ke Li
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Kunling Chen
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Jingyuan Pei
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
| | - Qiong Luo
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hengyang Hospital, Southern Medical University (Hengyang Central Hospital), Hengyang 421000, China
| | - Mingxin Pan
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; (H.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.X.); (J.X.); (K.L.); (K.C.); (J.P.)
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16
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Wang S, Wang R, Xu N, Wei X, Yang Y, Lian Z, Cen B, Shen C, Li W, Wang J, Zhang Z, Tang L, Wei Q, Lu D, Xu X. SULT2B1-CS-DOCK2 axis regulates effector T-cell exhaustion in HCC microenvironment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1064-1078. [PMID: 36626623 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS HCC is a malignant disease. Compared with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (the classical therapy), immune checkpoint inhibitors are more effective in the treatment of HCC, despite their limited efficacy. Among these restricted factors, exhaustion of tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes, especially CD8 + T cells, is a core event. We aimed to determine the key factors contributing to CD8 + T-cell infiltration in HCC and investigate the underlying mechanisms. APPROACH AND RESULTS Using machine learning and multiplex immunohistochemistry analysis, we showed that dedicator of cytokinesis protein 2 (DOCK2) was a potential indicator of infiltrated CD8 + T cells in HCC. Using RNA sequencing, flow cytometry analysis, and mouse HCC models, we demonstrated that DOCK2 inactivation accounted for infiltrated CD8 + T-cell exhaustion in tumors. Using quasi-targeted metabolomics, mass spectrum, and mass cytometry by time of flight analysis, we found that cholesterol sulfate synthesized by sulfotransferase 2B1 in tumor cells suppressed DOCK2 enzymatic activity of T cells. Through virtual screening, molecular docking simulation, and experiments validation, we demonstrated that tolazamide reversed DOCK2 inactivation-mediated CD8 + T-cell exhaustion and enhanced anti-programmed death-ligand 1 antibody+apatinib immunotherapeutic effects on HCC. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that DOCK2 controls CD8 + T-cell infiltration in HCC, and cholesterol sulfate synthesized by sulfotransferase 2B1 in tumor cells promotes effector T-cell exhaustion. The findings suggest that the usage of conventional drugs affects immunotherapy efficacy in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Nan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yijie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Beini Cen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chenchen Shen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wangyao Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jianguo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhensheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Linsong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Di Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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Li M, Jiang W, Wang Z, Lu Y, Zhang J. New insights on IL‑36 in intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:275. [PMID: 37206554 PMCID: PMC10189745 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11974] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-36 is a member of the IL-1 superfamily, which includes three receptor agonists and one antagonist and exhibits a familial feature of inflammatory regulation. Distributed among various tissues, such as the skin, lung, gut and joints, the mechanism of IL-36 has been most completely investigated in the skin and has been used in clinical treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis. Meanwhile, the role of IL-36 in the intestine has also been under scrutiny and has been shown to be involved in the regulation of various intestinal diseases. Inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer are the most predominant inflammatory and neoplastic diseases of the intestine, and multiple studies have identified a complex role for IL-36 in both of them. Indeed, inhibiting IL-36 signaling is currently regarded as a promising therapeutic approach. Therefore, the present review briefly describes the composition and expression of IL-36 and focuses on the role of IL-36 in intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer. The targeted therapies that are currently being developed for the IL-36 receptor are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
| | - Zehui Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
| | - Yihan Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Dr Jun Zhang, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 8th Floor, 8th Building, 68 Changle Road, Qinhuai, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, P.R. China
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Nikoo M, Hassan ZF, Mardasi M, Rostamnezhad E, Roozbahani F, Rahimi S, Mohammadi J. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) immunotherapy by anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies: A rapidly evolving strategy. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 247:154473. [PMID: 37207558 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers in the world, with a high relapse rate. Delayed symptom onset observed in 70-80% of patients leads to diagnosis in advanced stages commonly associated with chronic liver disease. Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade therapy has recently emerged as a promising therapeutic option in the clinical management of several advanced malignancies, including HCC, due to the activation of exhausted tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and improved outcomes of T-cell function. However, many people with HCC do not respond to PD-1 blockade therapy, and the diversity of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) restricts their clinical utility. Therefore, numerous effective combinatory strategies, including combinations with anti-PD-1 antibodies and other therapeutic methods ranging from chemotherapy to targeted therapies, are evolving to improve therapeutic outcomes and evoke synergistic anti-tumor impressions in patients with advanced HCC. Unfortunately, combined therapy may have more side effects than single-agent treatment. Nonetheless, identifying appropriate predictive biomarkers can aid in managing potential immune-related adverse events by distinguishing patients who respond best to PD-1 inhibitors as single agents or in combination strategies. In the present review, we summarize the therapeutic potential of PD-1 blockade therapy for advanced HCC patients. Besides, a glimpse of the pivotal predictive biomarkers influencing a patient's response to anti-PD-1 antibodies will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Nikoo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Mahsa Mardasi
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University G. C., Evin, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elmira Rostamnezhad
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Roozbahani
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sahel Rahimi
- Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology(NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mohammadi
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Geng R, Tang H, You T, Xu X, Li S, Li Z, Liu Y, Qiu W, Zhou N, Li N, Ge Y, Guo F, Sun Y, Wang Y, Li T, Bai C. Peripheral CD8+CD28+ T lymphocytes predict the efficacy and safety of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in cancer patients. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125876. [PMID: 36969245 PMCID: PMC10038730 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundProgrammed cell death protein-1/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) inhibitors works by reactivating immune cells. Considering the accessibility of noninvasive liquid biopsies, it is advisable to employ peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets to predict immunotherapy outcomes.MethodsWe retrospectively enrolled 87 patients with available baseline circulating lymphocyte subset data who received first-line PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between May 2018 and April 2022. Immune cell counts were determined by flow cytometry.ResultsPatients who responded to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors had significantly higher circulating CD8+CD28+ T-cell counts (median [range] count: 236 [30-536] versus 138 [36-460]/μL, p < 0.001). Using 190/μL as the cutoff value, the sensitivity and specificity of CD8+CD28+ T cells for predicting immunotherapy response were 0.689 and 0.714, respectively. Furthermore, the median progression-free survival (PFS, not reached versus 8.7 months, p < 0.001) and overall survival (OS, not reached versus 16.2 months, p < 0.001) were significantly longer in the patients with higher CD8+CD28+ T-cell counts. However, the CD8+CD28+ T-cell level was also associated with the incidence of grade 3-4 immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The sensitivity and specificity of CD8+CD28+ T cells for predicting irAEs of grade 3-4 were 0.846 and 0.667, respectively, at the threshold of CD8+CD28+ T cells ≥ 309/μL.ConclusionsHigh circulating CD8+CD28+ T-cell levels is a potential biomarker for immunotherapy response and better prognosis, while excessive CD8+CD28+ T cells (≥ 309/μL) may also indicate the emergence of severe irAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixuan Geng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting You
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuxiu Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Sijian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Zepeng Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ningning Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuping Ge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fuping Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhong Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dandong First Hospital, Dandong, Liaoning, China
| | - Yingyi Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yingyi Wang, ; Taisheng Li,
| | - Taisheng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yingyi Wang, ; Taisheng Li,
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Wang X, Zhang Q, Zhou J, Xiao Z, Liu J, Deng S, Hong X, Huang W, Cai M, Guo Y, Huang J, Wang Y, Lin L, Zhu K. T cell-mediated targeted delivery of tadalafil regulates immunosuppression and polyamine metabolism to overcome immune checkpoint blockade resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-006493. [PMID: 36813307 PMCID: PMC9950981 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) monotherapy provides poor survival benefit in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to ICB resistance caused by immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and drug discontinuation resulting from immune-related side effects. Thus, novel strategies that can simultaneously reshape immunosuppressive TME and ameliorate side effects are urgently needed. METHODS Both in vitro and orthotopic HCC models were used to explore and demonstrate the new role of a conventional, clinically used drug, tadalafil (TA), in conquering immunosuppressive TME. In detail, the effect of TA on M2 polarization and polyamine metabolism in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) was identified. After making clear the aforementioned immune regulatory effect of TA, we introduced a nanomedicine-based strategy of tumor-targeted drug delivery to make better use of TA to reverse immunosuppressive TME and overcome ICB resistance for HCC immunotherapy. A dual pH-sensitive nanodrug simultaneously carrying both TA and programmed cell death receptor 1 antibody (aPD-1) was developed, and its ability for tumor-targeted drug delivery and TME-responsive drug release was evaluated in an orthotopic HCC model. Finally, the immune regulatory effect, antitumor therapeutic effect, as well as side effects of our nanodrug combining both TA and aPD-1 were analyzed. RESULTS TA exerted a new role in conquering immunosuppressive TME by inhibiting M2 polarization and polyamine metabolism in TAMs and MDSCs. A dual pH-sensitive nanodrug was successfully synthesized to simultaneously carry both TA and aPD-1. On one hand, the nanodrug realized tumor-targeted drug delivery by binding to circulating programmed cell death receptor 1-positive T cells and following their infiltration into tumor. On the other hand, the nanodrug facilitated efficient intratumoral drug release in acidic TME, releasing aPD-1 for ICB and leaving TA-encapsulated nanodrug to dually regulate TAMs and MDSCs. By virtue of the combined application of TA and aPD-1, as well as the efficient tumor-targeted drug delivery, our nanodrug effectively inhibited M2 polarization and polyamine metabolism in TAMs and MDSCs to conquer immunosuppressive TME, which contributed to remarkable ICB therapeutic efficacy with minimal side effects in HCC. CONCLUSIONS Our novel tumor-targeted nanodrug expands the application of TA in tumor therapy and holds great potential to break the logjam of ICB-based HCC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobin Wang
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaoyun Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zecong Xiao
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianxin Liu
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaohui Deng
- PCFM Lab of Ministry of Education School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyang Hong
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wensou Huang
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingyue Cai
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjian Guo
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjun Huang
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liteng Lin
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangshun Zhu
- Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology and Interventional Cancer Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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AmeliMojarad M, AmeliMojarad M, Cui X. Prospective role of PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors in GI cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 244:154338. [PMID: 36905697 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
One of the mechanisms by which tumor cells can evade the immune system is over activation of the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) / programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway. The binding of PD-1 to its ligand PD-L1 can trigger an inhibitory signal for reducing T-cell proliferation, inhibiting the anticancer effect of T cells, and limiting the anti-tumor immunity of effectors T cell responses to protect tissues from immune-mediated tissue damage in the tumor microenvironment (TME). PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors have created a new pattern in cancer immunotherapy and can increase T cell- surveillance; therefore, the development of better clinical application of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors can significantly enhance antitumor immunity and prolong survival in GI cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandana AmeliMojarad
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, PR China
| | - Melika AmeliMojarad
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, PR China
| | - Xiaonan Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, PR China.
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Zang C, Zhao Y, Liu G, Li K, Qin L, Zhang Y, Sun J, Wang Q, Ma L, Zhao P, Sun Y, Guo D, Yuan C, Dong T, Zhang Y. Variations in dynamic tumor-associated antigen-specific T cell responses correlate with HCC recurrence after thermal ablation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:982578. [PMID: 36618423 PMCID: PMC9813410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.982578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ablative therapy is a recommended treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) not only for its effective eradication of tumors, but also for its induction of host immunity. However, the high 5-year recurrence rate after ablation underlines the poor understanding of the antitumor immunity response. Here, we investigated the effects of thermal ablation on antitumor immunity. Methods We analyzed the dynamics of tumor-associated antigen (TAA)-specific immune responses and changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell phenotype in patients with HCC before and after tumor ablation. We used the IFN-γ ELISPOT assay and immunophenotyping by flow cytometry to evaluate the effects of ablation on host immunity. The correlation between the T cell response and disease outcome was explored to uncover the efficacy of the immune response in inhibiting HCC recurrence. Results Different TAA-specific T cell responses were identified among patients before and after ablation. One week after ablation, there was an improved immune state, with a switch from the dominance of an AFP-specific T cell response to that of a SMNMS-specific T cell response, which was correlated with better survival. Furthermore, an improvement in immune status was accompanied by a lower level of PD1+ and Tim3+ T cells in CD8+ T cells. Although this functional state was not durable, there was a higher degree of AFP-specific T cell responses at 4-weeks post-ablation. Furthermore, T cells presented a more exhausted phenotype at 4-weeks post-ablation than at the 1-week timepoint. Conclusions Ablation elicits a transient antitumor immune response in patients with HCC by changing the profile of the T cell response and the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, which correlated with longer recurrence-free survival of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoran Zang
- Interventional Therapy Center of Liver Disease, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Pancreatic Center Department, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Clinical Laboratory Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guihai Liu
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kang Li
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Qin
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuewei Zhang
- Pancreatic Center Department, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Sun
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Interventional Therapy Center of Liver Disease, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dandan Guo
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunwang Yuan
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Dong
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yonghong Zhang
- Interventional Therapy Center of Liver Disease, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Biomedical Information Center, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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TREM2 knockdown improves the therapeutic effect of PD-1 blockade in hepatocellular carcinoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 636:140-146. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.10.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Effect of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures on Prognosis of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Preliminary Exploration of Its Formation Mechanism. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205157. [PMID: 36291944 PMCID: PMC9601110 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary At present, research on tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been limited to the prognostic impact. Our manuscript first validates previous studies using two databases and then initially explores the key molecules and mechanisms of TLS formation and immunotherapy implications for HCC patients by using the TCGA database. For example, LCK, a key molecule in the formation of TLSs, may affect the formation of TLSs by regulating the cytokine signalling pathway, chemokine signalling pathway, T-cell activation and P53 signalling pathway. Second, the expression level of LCK is another factor affecting the sensitivity of HCC patients to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, our study provides a potential mechanism for further exploration of TLSs. Abstract Background: Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are formed by the aggregation of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is driven by chemokines or cytokines in the tumour microenvironment. Studies have shown that TLSs are associated with good prognosis in patients with various solid tumours and can improve patient responses to immunotherapy. However, the role of TLSs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial, and the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Methods: According to haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining results, HCC patients in Xijing Hospital data and TCGA data were divided into TLS+ and TLS- groups, and Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis was performed to assess overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Immunofluorescence (IF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to identify TILs in the TLS+ group. Lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK), a molecule involved in TLS formation, was explored in LinkedOmics. TILs were divided into two groups by drawing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to calculate cut-off values. Spearman correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation between LCK and TILs, and the molecular pathways by which LCK regulates immunotherapy were clarified through enrichment analysis. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) distribution of sorafenib was observed in groups that varied in LCK expression. Results: According to the HE results, 61 cases in the Xijing Hospital cohort and 195 cases in the TCGA cohort had TLSs, while 89 cases and 136 cases did not. The KM results showed that TLSs had no effect on the OS of HCC patients but significantly affected RFS. The IF/IHC results showed that higher TIL numbers in TLSs were correlated with better prognosis in HCC patients. Spearman correlation analysis showed that LCK expression was positively correlated with TIL numbers. Enrichment analysis showed that upregulation of LCK expression mainly regulated the cytokine signalling pathway, the chemokine signalling pathway and T-cell activation. The IC50 scores of sorafenib in HCC patients with high LCK expression were lower, and the sensitivity was higher. Conclusion: TLSs mainly affected the early RFS of HCC patients but had no effect on OS. The high expression of the TLS formation-related gene LCK can increase the sensitivity of HCC patients to ICIs.
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Tang Q, Chen Y, Li X, Long S, Shi Y, Yu Y, Wu W, Han L, Wang S. The role of PD-1/PD-L1 and application of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in human cancers. Front Immunol 2022; 13:964442. [PMID: 36177034 PMCID: PMC9513184 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.964442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is a checkpoint receptor expressed on the surface of various immune cells. PD-L1, the natural receptor for PD-1, is mainly expressed in tumor cells. Studies have indicated that PD-1 and PD-L1 are closely associated with the progression of human cancers and are promising biomarkers for cancer therapy. Moreover, the interaction of PD-1 and PD-L1 is one of the important mechanism by which human tumors generate immune escape. This article provides a review on the role of PD-L1/PD-1, mechanisms of immune response and resistance, as well as immune-related adverse events in the treatment of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy in human cancers. Moreover, we summarized a large number of clinical trials to successfully reveal that PD-1/PD-L1 Immune-checkpoint inhibitors have manifested promising therapeutic effects, which have been evaluated from different perspectives, including overall survival, objective effective rate and medium progression-free survival. Finally, we pointed out the current problems faced by PD-1/PD-L1 Immune-checkpoint inhibitors and its future prospects. Although PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors have been widely used in the treatment of human cancers, tough challenges still remain. Combination therapy and predictive models based on integrated biomarker determination theory may be the future directions for the application of PD-1/PD-L1 Immune-checkpoint inhibitors in treating human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Tang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Clinical and Basic Research Team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Department of Oncology, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shunqin Long
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Clinical and Basic Research Team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Department of Oncology, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yao Shi
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaya Yu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanyin Wu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Clinical and Basic Research Team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Department of Oncology, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wanyin Wu, ; Ling Han, ; Sumei Wang,
| | - Ling Han
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wanyin Wu, ; Ling Han, ; Sumei Wang,
| | - Sumei Wang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Clinical and Basic Research Team of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Department of Oncology, The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wanyin Wu, ; Ling Han, ; Sumei Wang,
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Ren Y, Song J, Li X, Luo N. Rationale and Clinical Research Progress on PD-1/PD-L1-Based Immunotherapy for Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168878. [PMID: 36012144 PMCID: PMC9408844 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC), a highly aggressive and malignant tumor, currently lacks an effective treatment. There has been some progress in the treatment of mTNBC with programmed death receptor-1/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) immunotherapy in recent years. The combination of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors with other therapies is a noteworthy treatment strategy. Immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy or small-molecule inhibitors still faces many challenges. Additionally, there are some new immunotherapy targets in development. We aimed to further evaluate the effectiveness and usefulness of immunotherapy for treating mTNBC and to propose new immunotherapy strategies. This review explains the rationale and results of existing clinical trials evaluating PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors alone or in combination for the treatment of mTNBC. For patients with aggressive tumors and poor health, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, either alone or in combination with other modalities, have proven to be effective. However, more research is needed to explore more effective immunotherapy regimens that will lead to new breakthroughs in the treatment of mTNBC.
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Rao Z, Li H, Yao W, Wang Q, Ma B, Xue D, Meng X. A novel HCC prognosis predictor PDSS1 affects the cell cycle through the STAT3 signaling pathway in HCC. Front Oncol 2022; 12:927468. [PMID: 35965499 PMCID: PMC9368321 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.927468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Decaprenyl diphosphate synthase subunit 1 (PDSS1) is closely related to a variety of human diseases, but its expression pattern and biological function in HCC have not been studied to date.MethodsThe expression level of PDSS1 was analyzed using the TCGA and GEO databases. The relationships between PDSS1 and patient clinicopathological characteristics were verified based on TCGA clinical data. Additionally, the co-expressed genes of PDSS1were investigated and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted using LinkedOmics. Next, the association between PDSS1 and immune infiltration was determined using version 1.34.0 of the GSVA package. EdU assay, colony-formation assay, transwell assay, wound-healing assay, and flow cytometry analysis were used to assess the effect of PDSS1 on the cell phenotype.ResultsPDSS1 was upregulated in HCC compared with adjacent tissues. High PDSS1 in HCC was associated with poor overall survival, disease-specific survival, and progress-free interval. Results suggested that PDSS1 may activate multiple oncogenic pathways in HCC, especially those involved in the cell cycle. The expression of PDSS1 was significantly related to Th2 cells, TFH, T helper cells, NK CD56bright cells, cytotoxic cells, DC, CD8 T cells, and neutrophils. PDSS1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, cell cycle, migration and invasion. Furthermore, PDSS1 acted as an oncogene through the STAT3 signaling pathway.ConclusionOur study reveals that a high level of PDSS1 is significantly correlated with poor patient prognosis and immune cell infiltration in HCC. PDSS1 may be a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuqin Rao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Heng Li
- Department of Comprehensive Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) West District/Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Wenchao Yao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Biao Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dongbo Xue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Xianzhi Meng, ; Dongbo Xue,
| | - Xianzhi Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Xianzhi Meng, ; Dongbo Xue,
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Chiang IT, Lee YH, Tan ZL, Hsu FT, Tu HF. Regorafenib enhances antitumor immune efficacy of anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy on oral squamous cell carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112661. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Li Y, Zhou T, Cheng X, Li D, Zhao M, Zheng WV. microRNA-378a-3p regulates the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating PD-L1 and STAT3. Bioengineered 2022; 13:4730-4743. [PMID: 35184646 PMCID: PMC8973785 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2031408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays an essential role in the development or progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression during normal and pathophysiological events. Here, we explored the functions and detailed mechanisms of miR-378a-3p and PD-L1 in HCC progression. First, miR-378a-3p was selected by analyzing miRNA levels in two HCC Gene Expression Omnibus datasets. We found that miR-378a-3p levels exhibited a downward trend in HCC and were negatively correlated with PD-L1 levels. Additionally, a dual luciferase assay predicted that miR-378a-3p directly targets PD-L1. Moreover, the transfection of miR-378a-3p mimics into Li-7 and HuH-7 cells effectively decreased the PD-L1 mRNA and protein expression levels, and inhibited Treg differentiation in co-culture models by modulating the expression levels of certain cytokines. Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-378a-3p hindered cell proliferation and migration but facilitated apoptosis by repressing STAT3 signaling in HCC cells. In conclusion, miR-378a-3p appears to inhibit HCC tumorigenesis by regulating PD-L1 and STAT3 levels. Thus, miR-378a-3p may be a potential target for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Xianyi Cheng
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Dezhi Li
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Meng Zhao
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei V. Zheng
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
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Immune Reconstitution following High-Dose Chemotherapy and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation with or without Pembrolizumab Maintenance Therapy in Patients with Lymphoma. Transplant Cell Ther 2022; 28:32.e1-32.e10. [PMID: 34670169 PMCID: PMC8792205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2021.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a standard of care for patients with chemosensitive, relapsed/refractory (R/R) classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Whereas the clinical benefit of ASCT has traditionally been attributed solely to cytoreduction from intensive chemotherapy, ASCT has important immunogenic effects that may contribute to its antitumor efficacy and could provide a favorable immune environment for post-ASCT immune-based maintenance treatments. We previously reported clinical results of a phase II trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02362997) testing 8 doses of pembrolizumab maintenance therapy after ASCT for patients with R/R cHL or DLBCL. To clarify the impact of pembrolizumab on immune reconstitution, we compared the kinetics of peripheral blood immune cell recovery after ASCT for trial patients receiving pembrolizumab maintenance to those of a contemporaneous control cohort of similar patients undergoing ASCT without pembrolizumab maintenance. This study was conducted to characterize the impact of post-ASCT pembrolizumab maintenance therapy on immune reconstitution for patients with R/R DLBCL and cHL and to identify candidate biomarkers of efficacy and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Peripheral blood (PB) mononuclear cell samples were prospectively collected at 1 to 18 months after ASCT and analyzed by flow cytometry using a panel of fluorophore-conjugated monoclonal antibodies to identify B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and various dendritic cell (DC) and T cell subsets. A median of 5 (range, 1 to 8) post-ASCT PB samples were collected from 144 patients (59 in the pembrolizumab group and 85 in the control group). Clinical characteristics of the 2 cohorts were similar. Compared with cHL patients, DLBCL patients (all of whom received anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy before ASCT) had delayed CD19+ cell reconstitution that persisted for at least 18 months after ASCT. No other differences in immune reconstitution based on lymphoma subtype were observed. Post-ASCT pembrolizumab maintenance therapy was associated with an elevation in circulating DCs (driven by higher levels of plasmacytoid and immature DCs) that persisted for the duration of pembrolizumab treatment, along with a significant reduction in PD-1+ T cells that persisted for 6 to 12 months after completion of pembrolizumab therapy. Despite the key role of T cells in mediating the effects of PD-1 blockade, pembrolizumab maintenance did not affect recovery of any T cell subsets. In an exploratory analysis, a higher baseline CD4+ terminal effector memory cell count (defined as CD3+CD4+CD45RA+CD62L-) was associated with inferior progression-free survival (PFS), but only among patients who received pembrolizumab maintenance (P = .003). As continuous variables, lower absolute levels of NK cells (P = .009), PD-1+ CD4+ T cells (P = .005), and PD-1+ CD8+ T cells (P = .005) before pembrolizumab initiation were each associated with a higher risk of grade 2+ irAEs. Our findings indicate that post-ACST pembrolizumab maintenance therapy is associated with a persistent elevation of circulating DCs, but its impact on the reconstitution of other immune cells in peripheral blood appears limited. Our study suggests that early features of post-ASCT immune reconstitution could be associated with PFS and the risk of irAE and warrant additional investigation. © 2021 American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc.
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Miao L, Zhang Z, Ren Z, Li Y. Application of Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:699060. [PMID: 34513678 PMCID: PMC8426571 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.699060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies globally. It not only has a hidden onset but also progresses rapidly. Most HCC patients are already in the advanced stage of cancer when they are diagnosed, and have even lost the opportunity for surgical treatment. As an inflammation-related tumor, the immunosuppressive microenvironment of HCC can promote immune tolerance through a variety of mechanisms. Immunotherapy can activate tumor-specific immune responses, which brings a new hope for the treatment of HCC. At the present time, main immunotherapy strategies of HCC include immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and so on. This article reviews the application and research progress of immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lele Miao
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhengchao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhijian Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yumin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Wu X, Han R, Zhong Y, Weng N, Zhang A. Post treatment NLR is a predictor of response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:356. [PMID: 34233686 PMCID: PMC8262036 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In view of the fact that peripheral blood parameters have been reported as predictors of immunotherapy to various cancers, this study aimed to determine the predictors of response to anti-programmed death-1 (anti-PD-1) therapy in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) from peripheral blood parameters. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted to investigate the predictive value of peripheral blood parameters including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in the response to anti-PD-1 antibody treatment. 119 ESCC patients receiving combined treatment including anti-PD-1 antibody were enrolled in this study. RESULTS The median progression-free survival (PFS) of all ESCC patients was 3.73 months. PFS rate in ESCC patients with low NLR at 6 weeks post treatment was higher than patients with high NLR (HR = 2.097, 95% CI 0.996-4.417, P = 0.027). However, PFS rate in ESCC patients with low NLR at baseline (HR = 1.060, 95% CI 0.524-2.146, P = 0.869) or 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.293, 95% CI 0.628-2.663, P = 0.459) was comparable with high NLR. And no statistically different was found in PFS rate between low PLR and high PLR at baseline (HR = 0.786, 95% CI 0.389-1.589, P = 0.469), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 0.767, 95% CI 0.379-1.552, P = 0.452) or 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.272, 95% CI 0.624-2.594, P = 0.488) in ESCC patients. PFS rate was also comparable between low MLR and high MLR at baseline (HR = 0.826, 95% CI 0.408-1.670, P = 0.587), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.209, 95% CI 0.590-2.475, P = 0.580) or 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.199, 95% CI 0.586-2.454, P = 0.596). PFS rate was similar between patients with low SII and high SII at baseline (HR = 1.120, 95% CI 0.554-2.264, P = 0.749), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.022, 95% CI 0.500-2.089, P = 0.951) and 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.759, 95% CI 0.851-3.635, P = 0.097). CONCLUSIONS NLR at 6 weeks post treatment is a predictor of the response to anti-PD-1 treatment in patients with ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianbin Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518033, China
| | - Runkun Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yanping Zhong
- Department of Health Management, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nuoqing Weng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518033, China.
| | - Ao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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