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Wang X, Zhang H, XinZhang, Liu Y. Abscopal effect: from a rare phenomenon to a new frontier in cancer therapy. Biomark Res 2024; 12:98. [PMID: 39228005 PMCID: PMC11373306 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00628-3] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) controls local lesions, meantime it has the capability to induce systemic response to inhibit distant, metastatic, non-radiated tumors, which is referred to as the "abscopal effect". It is widely recognized that radiotherapy can stimulate systemic immune response. This provides a compelling theoretical basis for the combination of immune therapy combined with radiotherapy(iRT). Indeed, this phenomenon has also been observed in clinical treatment, bringing significant clinical benefits to patients, and a series of basic studies are underway to amplify this effect. However, the molecular mechanisms of immune response induced by RT, determination of the optimal treatment regimen for iRT, and how to amplify the abscopal effect. In order to amplify and utilize this effect in clinical management, these key issues require to be well addressed; In this review, we comprehensively summarize the growing consensus and emphasize the emerging limitations of enhancing the abscopal effect with radiotherapy or immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the prospects and barriers to the current clinical translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Haoyu Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - XinZhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Research Center for Laryngopharyngeal and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Fuster MM. Integrating electromagnetic cancer stress with immunotherapy: a therapeutic paradigm. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1417621. [PMID: 39165679 PMCID: PMC11333800 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1417621] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
An array of published cell-based and small animal studies have demonstrated a variety of exposures of cancer cells or experimental carcinomas to electromagnetic (EM) wave platforms that are non-ionizing and non-thermal. Overall effects appear to be inhibitory, inducing cancer cell stress or death as well as inhibition in tumor growth in experimental models. A variety of physical input variables, including discrete frequencies, amplitudes, and exposure times, have been tested, but drawing methodologic rationale and mechanistic conclusions across studies is challenging. Nevertheless, outputs such as tumor cytotoxicity, apoptosis, tumor membrane electroporation and leak, and reactive oxygen species generation are intriguing. Early EM platforms in humans employ pulsed electric fields applied either externally or using interventional tumor contact to induce tumor cell electroporation with stromal, vascular, and immunologic sparing. It is also possible that direct or external exposures to non-thermal EM waves or pulsed magnetic fields may generate electromotive forces to engage with unique tumor cell properties, including tumor glycocalyx to induce carcinoma membrane disruption and stress, providing novel avenues to augment tumor antigen release, cross-presentation by tumor-resident immune cells, and anti-tumor immunity. Integration with existing checkpoint inhibitor strategies to boost immunotherapeutic effects in carcinomas may also emerge as a broadly effective strategy, but little has been considered or tested in this area. Unlike the use of chemo/radiation and/or targeted therapies in cancer, EM platforms may allow for the survival of tumor-associated immunologic cells, including naïve and sensitized anti-tumor T cells. Moreover, EM-induced cancer cell stress and apoptosis may potentiate endogenous tumor antigen-specific anti-tumor immunity. Clinical studies examining a few of these combined EM-platform approaches are in their infancy, and a greater thrust in research (including basic, clinical, and translational work) in understanding how EM platforms may integrate with immunotherapy will be critical in driving advances in cancer outcomes under this promising combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M. Fuster
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Pulmonary & Critical Care Division, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Veterans Medical Research Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
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Carpenè S, Silvestri B, Bertinazzi M, Armato E, Amadori M, Spinato R, de Terlizzi F, Azzarello G. Electrochemotherapy as adjuvant treatment in a sinonasal mucosal melanoma in elderly patient: a case report. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2024; 281:3853-3858. [PMID: 38634895 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-024-08606-z] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma (SNMM) is a rare but aggressive disease. Surgery with free margins, when feasible, is the treatment of choice. In the last three decades, electrochemotherapy (ECT) has emerged as a local ablative procedure, performed with the Cliniporator, for cutaneous and mucosal tumours of different histology. We present a case report of an ECT treatment performed by means of a new endoscopic electrode, on an elderly patient affected by primary SNMM. METHODS An 88-year-old man with a diagnosis of SNMM (cT4aN0M0)-Stage IV, of the left nasal fossa presented at our institution. Symptoms were epistaxis and complete left nasal obstruction. He refused sinonasal extended surgery and radiotherapy. He underwent a tumor debulking followed by ECT exclusively for symptom control, with palliative intent. RESULTS The patient underwent SNMM debulking under general anaesthesia, followed by ECT on tumour margins. After the procedure, he had been free from symptoms for 5 months, with a good quality of life. Local recurrence was controlled with a new local debulking and ECT procedure on margins. The patient remained symptom free for the next 4 months. Seventeen months after diagnosis, the patient is mild symptomatic for sinonasal disease. Therefore, he developed a systemic disease progression. CONCLUSIONS In our experience, ECT can be used as an adjuvant tool for symptom and local control in SNMM when extended surgery is out of curative intent or unfeasible. As expected, ECT does not appear to have any effect on systemic disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carpenè
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Barbara Silvestri
- Oncology and Haematology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy.
| | - Martina Bertinazzi
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Enrico Armato
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Maurizio Amadori
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Roberto Spinato
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mestre, Venice, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Azzarello
- Oncology and Haematology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
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Ahmad MU, Walsh A, Kirane A. Review of Role of Surgery with Electroporation in Melanoma: Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, and Gene Delivery. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3828. [PMID: 38999394 PMCID: PMC11242408 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133828] [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: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroporation with chemotherapy (ECT) is currently offered as a treatment in Europe for locoregional or metastatic melanoma with cutaneous lesions. However, the role of surgery and other forms of electroporation in melanoma requires further evaluation. Two reviewers used two databases to conduct a literature search and review, and 51 publications related to electroporation with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or gene delivery were found. ECT appears to be effective in reducing tumor burden for surgical resection, replacing surgical intervention with evidence of complete regression in some lesions, and inducing both local and systemic immune effects. These immune effects are pronounced when ECT is combined with immunotherapy, with a statistically significant improvement in overall survival (OS). Other forms of electroporation, such as those using calcium chloride, an IL-12 plasmid, and vaccination, require further study. However, IL-12 plasmid electroporation may be inferior to ECT based on the evidence available. Furthermore, irradiation of the tumor prior to ECT treatment is negatively correlated with local response. Access to ECT is restricted in the US and requires further evaluation. More randomized controlled trials of ECT and electroporation treatment in locoregional melanoma are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Usman Ahmad
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| | - Allyson Walsh
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego Health, San Diego, CA 92103, USA;
| | - Amanda Kirane
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
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Zheng R, Liu X, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo S, Jin X, Zhang J, Guan Y, Liu Y. Frontiers and future of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: from molecular mechanisms to clinical application. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383978. [PMID: 38756774 PMCID: PMC11096556 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignant tumor, that is becoming increasingly common in recent years. Despite advances in intensive treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy, the overall survival rate has not significantly improved in patients with pancreatic cancer. This may be attributed to the insidious onset, unknown pathophysiology, and poor prognosis of the disease. It is therefore essential to identify and develop more effective and safer treatments for pancreatic cancer. Tumor immunotherapy is the new and fourth pillar of anti-tumor therapy after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Significant progress has made in the use of immunotherapy for a wide variety of malignant tumors in recent years; a breakthrough has also been made in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This review describes the advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus, and matrix-depletion therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. At the same time, some new potential biomarkers and potential immunotherapy combinations for pancreatic cancer are discussed. The molecular mechanisms of various immunotherapies have also been elucidated, and their clinical applications have been highlighted. The current challenges associated with immunotherapy and proposed strategies that hold promise in overcoming these limitations have also been discussed, with the aim of offering new insights into immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zheng
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yufu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongxian Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shutong Guo
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuehong Guan
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yusi Liu
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China
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Rastrelli M, Russano F, Cavallin F, Del Fiore P, Pacilli C, Di Prata C, Rossi CR, Vecchiato A, Dall’Olmo L, Mocellin S. Isolated Limb Perfusion and Immunotherapy in the Treatment of In-Transit Melanoma Metastases: Is It a Real Synergy? J Pers Med 2024; 14:442. [PMID: 38793023 PMCID: PMC11122383 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14050442] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Isolated limb hyperthermic-antiblastic perfusion (ILP) was the most effective local treatment for advanced in-transit melanoma, but the advent of modern effective immunotherapy (IT), such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, has changed the treatment landscape. METHODS This study evaluated the role of the association between ILP and IT in the treatment of locally advanced unresectable melanoma, particularly in relation to modern systemic therapies. We analyzed 187 consecutive patients who were treated with ILP (melphalan or melphalan associated with TNF-alpha) for advanced melanoma at the Veneto Institute of Oncology of Padua (Italy) and the Padua University Hospital (Italy) between June 1989 and September 2021. Overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), local disease-free survival (local DFS) and distant disease-free survival (distant DFS) were evaluated. Local toxicity was classified according to the Wieberdink scale and surgical complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Response to locoregional therapy was evaluated during follow-up according to the RECIST 1.1 criteria (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor). RESULTS A total of 99 patients were treated with ILP and 88 with IT + ILP. The overall response rate was 67% in both groups. At 36 months, OS was 43% in the ILP group and 61% in the ILP + IT group (p = 0.02); DSS was 43% in the ILP group and 64% in the ILP + IT group (p = 0.02); local DFS was the 37% in ILP group and 53% in the ILP + IT group (p = 0.04); and distant DFS was 33% in the ILP group and 35% in the ILP + IT group (p = 0.40). Adjusting for age and lymph node involvement, receiving ILP + IT was associated with improved OS (p = 0.01) and DSS (p = 0.007) but not local DFS (p = 0.13) and distant DFS (p = 0.21). CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm the synergy between ILP and IT. ILP remains a valuable loco-regional treatment option in the era of effective systemic treatments. Further studies are needed to establish the optimal combination of loco-regional and systemic treatments and address the best timing of this combination to obtain the highest local response rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rastrelli
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DISCOG), University of Padua, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Francesco Russano
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | | | - Paolo Del Fiore
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Claudia Pacilli
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), School of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | | | - Carlo Riccardo Rossi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DISCOG), University of Padua, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Antonella Vecchiato
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Luigi Dall’Olmo
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DISCOG), University of Padua, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.R.); (F.R.); (A.V.); (L.D.); (S.M.)
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences (DISCOG), University of Padua, 35128 Padova, Italy;
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Broholm M, Vogelsang R, Bulut M, Gögenur M, Stigaard T, Orhan A, Schefte X, Fiehn AMK, Gehl J, Gögenur I. Neoadjuvant calcium electroporation for potentially curable colorectal cancer. Surg Endosc 2024; 38:697-705. [PMID: 38017160 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-023-10557-1] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of new perioperative treatment modalities to activate the immune system in colorectal cancer might have a beneficial effect on reducing the risk of recurrence after surgery. Calcium electroporation is a promising treatment modality that potentially modulates the tumor microenvironment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of the procedure in the neoadjuvant setting in localized left-sided colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS The study included patients with potentially curable sigmoid or rectal cancer with no indication for other neoadjuvant treatment. Patients were offered calcium electroporation as a neoadjuvant treatment before elective surgery. Follow-up visits were conducted on the preoperative day before elective surgery, POD2, POD14, and POD30, with an evaluation of adverse events, impact on elective surgery, clinical examination, and quality of recovery. RESULTS Endoscopic calcium electroporation was performed as an outpatient procedure in all 21 cases, with no procedure-related complications reported. At follow-up, five adverse events were registered, two of which were classified as serious adverse events. Surgery was performed as planned in 19 patients (median time to surgery, 8 days), and the final two patients underwent surgery with a delay due to adverse events (14 and 33 days). No significant impact on the quality of recovery scores nor inflammatory markers were seen before and after calcium electroporation, nor baseline and POD30. CONCLUSIONS Endoscopic calcium electroporation is a safe and feasible procedure in patients with potentially curable CRC. The study showed limited side effects and limited impact on the following elective surgical resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Broholm
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark.
| | - R Vogelsang
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
| | - M Bulut
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Gögenur
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
| | - T Stigaard
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
| | - A Orhan
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - X Schefte
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
| | - A M K Fiehn
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - J Gehl
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - I Gögenur
- Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Center for Surgical Science, Lykkebaekvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Altun I, Demirlenk YM, Atar D, Cevik E, Gunduz S, Albadawi H, Oklu R. Advances and Challenges in Interventional Immuno-Oncology Locoregional Therapies. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2024; 35:164-172. [PMID: 38272636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Interventional immuno-oncology is making strides in locoregional therapies to address complex tumor microenvironments. Long-standing interventional radiology cancer therapies, such as tumor ablation and embolization, are being recharacterized in the context of immunotherapy. Intratumoral injections, such as those of genetically engineered or unaltered viruses, and the delivery of immune cells, antibodies, proteins, or cytokines into targeted tumors, along with advancements in delivery techniques, have produced promising results in preliminary studies, indicating their antitumor effectiveness. Emerging strategies using DNA scaffolding, polysaccharides, glycan, chitosan, and natural products are also showing promise in targeted cancer therapy. The future of interventional immuno-oncology lies in personalized immunotherapies that capitalize on individual immune profiles and tumor characteristics, along with the exploration of combination therapies. This study will review various interventional immuno-oncology strategies and emerging technologies to enhance delivery of therapeutics and response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izzet Altun
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yusuf M Demirlenk
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Dila Atar
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Enes Cevik
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Seyda Gunduz
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona; Department of Medical Oncology, Istinye University Bahcesehir Liv Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hassan Albadawi
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Rahmi Oklu
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Laboratory for Patient Inspired Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona.
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Fesmire CC, Peal B, Ruff J, Moyer E, McParland TJ, Derks K, O’Neil E, Emke C, Johnson B, Ghosh S, Petrella RA, DeWitt MR, Prange T, Fogle C, Sano MB. Investigation of integrated time nanosecond pulse irreversible electroporation against spontaneous equine melanoma. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1232650. [PMID: 38352036 PMCID: PMC10861690 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1232650] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Integrated time nanosecond pulse irreversible electroporation (INSPIRE) is a novel tumor ablation modality that employs high voltage, alternating polarity waveforms to induce cell death in a well-defined volume while sparing the underlying tissue. This study aimed to demonstrate the in vivo efficacy of INSPIRE against spontaneous melanoma in standing, awake horses. Methods A custom applicator and a pulse generation system were utilized in a pilot study to treat horses presenting with spontaneous melanoma. INSPIRE treatments were administered to 32 tumors across 6 horses and an additional 13 tumors were followed to act as untreated controls. Tumors were tracked over a 43-85 day period following a single INSPIRE treatment. Pulse widths of 500ns and 2000ns with voltages between 1000 V and 2000 V were investigated to determine the effect of these variables on treatment outcomes. Results Treatments administered at the lowest voltage (1000 V) reduced tumor volumes by 11 to 15%. Higher voltage (2000 V) treatments reduced tumor volumes by 84 to 88% and eliminated 33% and 80% of tumors when 500 ns and 2000 ns pulses were administered, respectively. Discussion Promising results were achieved without the use of chemotherapeutics, the use of general anesthesia, or the need for surgical resection in regions which are challenging to keep sterile. This novel therapeutic approach has the potential to expand the role of pulsed electric fields in veterinary patients, especially when general anesthesia is contraindicated, and warrants future studies to demonstrate the efficacy of INSPIRE as a solid tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris C. Fesmire
- Bioelectricity Lab, UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Bridgette Peal
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Jennifer Ruff
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Elizabeth Moyer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Thomas J. McParland
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Kobi Derks
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Erin O’Neil
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Carrie Emke
- Clinical Studies Core, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Brianna Johnson
- Clinical Studies Core, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Shatorupa Ghosh
- Bioelectricity Lab, UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Ross A. Petrella
- Bioelectricity Lab, UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Matthew R. DeWitt
- Bioelectricity Lab, UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Timo Prange
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Callie Fogle
- Department of Clinical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Michael B. Sano
- Bioelectricity Lab, UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
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10
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Hadzialjevic B, Omerzel M, Trotovsek B, Cemazar M, Jesenko T, Sersa G, Djokic M. Electrochemotherapy combined with immunotherapy - a promising potential in the treatment of cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1336866. [PMID: 38292489 PMCID: PMC10825954 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1336866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy is a novel, locoregional therapy that is used to treat cutaneous and deep-seated tumors. The electric pulses used in electrochemotherapy increase the permeability of the cell membranes of the target lesion and thus enhance the delivery of low-permeant cytotoxic drugs to the cells, leading to their death. It has also been postulated that electrochemotherapy acts as an in situ vaccination by inducing immunogenic cell death. This in turn leads to an enhanced systemic antitumor response, which could be further exploited by immunotherapy. However, only a few clinical studies have investigated the role of combined treatment in patients with melanoma, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. In this review, we therefore aim to review the published preclinical evidence on combined treatment and to review clinical studies that have investigated the combined role of electrochemotherapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Hadzialjevic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Masa Omerzel
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Blaz Trotovsek
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Jesenko
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mihajlo Djokic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Erdem S, Narayanan JS, Worni M, Bolli M, White RR. Local ablative therapies and the effect on antitumor immune responses in pancreatic cancer - A review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23551. [PMID: 38187292 PMCID: PMC10767140 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23551] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease, projected to rank as the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related mortality by 2030. Despite significant progress in advances in surgical techniques and chemotherapy protocols, the overall survival (OS) remains to be less than 10 % for all stages combined. In recent years, local ablative techniques have been introduced and utilized as additional therapeutic approaches for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), with promising results with respect to local tumor control and OS. In addition to successful cytoreduction, there is emerging evidence that local ablation induces antitumor immune activity that could prevent or even treat distant metastatic tumors. The enhancement of antitumor immune responses could potentially make ablative therapy a therapeutic option for the treatment of metastatic PDAC. In this review, we summarize current ablative techniques used in the management of LAPC and their impact on systemic immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suna Erdem
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, CA, USA
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, St. Clara Hospital and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Mathias Worni
- Department of Surgery, Hirslanden Clinic Beau Site, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Switzerland
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, St. Clara Hospital and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine, Stiftung Lindenhof, Campus SLB, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin Bolli
- Clarunis, Department of Visceral Surgery, University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, St. Clara Hospital and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rebekah R. White
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, CA, USA
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12
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Alonso-González R, Abadal Villayandre JM, Gálvez Gonzalez E, Álvarez Perez MJ, Méndez Alonso S, de Gregorio Ariza MA. Irreversible electroporation: Beyond the limits of tumor ablation. RADIOLOGIA 2024; 66:47-56. [PMID: 38365354 DOI: 10.1016/j.rxeng.2023.04.002] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) is a non-thermal tumor ablation technique. High-voltage electrical pulses are applied between pairs of electrodes inserted around and/or inside a tumor. The generated electric current induces the creation of nanopores in the cell membrane, triggering apoptosis. As a result, IRE can be safely used in areas near delicate vascular structures where other thermal ablation methods are contraindicated. Currently, IRE has demonstrated to be a successful ablation technique for pancreatic, renal, and liver tumors and is widely used as a focal therapeutic option for prostate cancer. The need for specific anesthetic management and accurate parallel placement of multiple electrodes entails a high level of complexity and great expertise from the interventional team is required. Nevertheless, IRE is a very promising technique with a remarkable systemic immunological capability and may impact on distant metastases (abscopal effect).
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Affiliation(s)
- R Alonso-González
- Radiología Vascular Intervencionista, Hospital Universitario Severo Ochoa, Madrid, Spain.
| | - J M Abadal Villayandre
- Radiología Vascular Intervencionista, Hospital Universitario Severo Ochoa, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Gálvez Gonzalez
- Radiología Vascular Intervencionista, Hospital Universitario Severo Ochoa, Madrid, Spain
| | - M J Álvarez Perez
- Radiología Vascular Intervencionista, Hospital Universitario Severo Ochoa, Madrid, Spain
| | - S Méndez Alonso
- Radiología Vascular Intervencionista, Hospital Universitario Puerta Hierro, Madrid, Spain
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13
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De Robertis M, Signori E. Immunogenic Effects and Clinical Applications of Electroporation-Based Treatments. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:42. [PMID: 38250855 PMCID: PMC10819851 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy can now be regarded as an attractive approach for cancer and infectious disease treatments [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela De Robertis
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari ‘A. Moro’, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Emanuela Signori
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Translational Pharmacology, CNR, 00133 Rome, Italy
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14
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Chen P, Paraiso WKD, Cabral H. Revitalizing Cytokine-Based Cancer Immunotherapy through Advanced Delivery Systems. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300275. [PMID: 37565723 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300275] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines can coordinate robust immune responses, holding great promise as therapeutics against infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. In cancer treatment, numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines have displayed promising efficacy in preclinical studies. However, their clinical application is hindered by poor pharmacokinetics, significant toxicity and unsatisfactory anticancer efficacy. Thus, while IFN-α and IL-2 are approved for specific cancer treatments, other cytokines still remain subject of intense investigation. To accelerate the application of cytokines as cancer immunotherapeutics, strategies need to be directed to improve their safety and anticancer performance. In this regard, delivery systems could be used to generate innovative therapies by targeting the cytokines or nucleic acids, such as DNA and mRNA, encoding the cytokines to tumor tissues. This review centers on these innovative delivery strategies for cytokines, summarizing key approaches, such as gene delivery and protein delivery, and critically examining their potential and challenges for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwen Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | | | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
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15
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Mikhail AS, Morhard R, Mauda-Havakuk M, Kassin M, Arrichiello A, Wood BJ. Hydrogel drug delivery systems for minimally invasive local immunotherapy of cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 202:115083. [PMID: 37673217 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Although systemic immunotherapy has achieved durable responses and improved survival for certain patients and cancer types, low response rates and immune system-related systemic toxicities limit its overall impact. Intratumoral (intralesional) delivery of immunotherapy is a promising technique to combat mechanisms of tumor immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment and reduce systemic drug exposure and associated side effects. However, intratumoral injections are prone to variable tumor drug distribution and leakage into surrounding tissues, which can compromise efficacy and contribute to toxicity. Controlled release drug delivery systems such as in situ-forming hydrogels are promising vehicles for addressing these challenges by providing improved spatio-temporal control of locally administered immunotherapies with the goal of promoting systemic tumor-specific immune responses and abscopal effects. In this review we will discuss concepts, applications, and challenges in local delivery of immunotherapy using controlled release drug delivery systems with a focus on intratumorally injected hydrogel-based drug carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Mikhail
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Robert Morhard
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michal Mauda-Havakuk
- Interventional Oncology service, Interventional Radiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv District, Israel
| | - Michael Kassin
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | - Bradford J Wood
- Center for Interventional Oncology, Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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16
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Ferrantelli F, Manfredi F, Chiozzini C, Leone P, Pugliese K, Spada M, Di Virgilio A, Giovannelli A, Valeri M, Cara A, Michelini Z, Andreotti M, Federico M. SARS-CoV-2-Specific CD8 + T-Cells in Blood but Not in the Lungs of Vaccinated K18-hACE2 Mice after Infection. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1433. [PMID: 37766110 PMCID: PMC10535545 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11091433] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 enters the host by infecting nasal ciliated cells. Then, the virus can spread towards the oropharyngeal cavity and the pulmonary tissues. The antiviral adaptive immunity is promptly induced in response to the virus's detection, with virus-specific T-lymphocytes appearing before antiviral antibodies. Both the breadth and potency of antiviral CD8+ T-cell immunity have a key role in containing viral spread and disease severity. Current anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines do not impede the virus's replication in the upper respiratory tract, and there is consensus on the fact that the best potency of the antiviral immune response in both blood and the upper respiratory tract can be reached upon infection in vaccinees (i.e., breakthrough infection). However, whether the antiviral CD8+ T-cells developing in response to the breakthrough infection in the upper respiratory tract diffuse to the lungs is also still largely unknown. To fill the gap, we checked the CD8+ T-cell immunity elicited after infection of K18-hACE2 transgenic mice both at 3 weeks and 3 months after anti-spike vaccination. Virus-specific CD8+ T-cell immunity was monitored in both blood and the lungs before and after infection. By investigating the de novo generation of the CD8+ T-cells specific for SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins, we found that both membrane (M) and/or nucleocapsid (N)-specific CD8+ T-cells were induced at comparable levels in the blood of both unvaccinated and vaccinated mice. Conversely, N-specific CD8+ T-cells were readily found in the lungs of the control mice but were either rare or absent in those of vaccinated mice. These results support the idea that the hybrid cell immunity developing after asymptomatic/mild breakthrough infection strengthens the antiviral cell immunity in the lungs only marginally, implying that the direct exposition of viral antigens is required for the induction of an efficient antiviral cell immunity in the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ferrantelli
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Francesco Manfredi
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Chiara Chiozzini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Katherina Pugliese
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Massimo Spada
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (A.D.V.); (A.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Antonio Di Virgilio
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (A.D.V.); (A.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Andrea Giovannelli
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (A.D.V.); (A.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Mauro Valeri
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (A.D.V.); (A.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Andrea Cara
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Zuleika Michelini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Mauro Andreotti
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (F.M.); (C.C.); (P.L.); (K.P.); (A.C.); (Z.M.); (M.A.)
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17
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Komel T, Omerzel M, Kamensek U, Znidar K, Lampreht Tratar U, Kranjc Brezar S, Dolinar K, Pirkmajer S, Sersa G, Cemazar M. Gene Immunotherapy of Colon Carcinoma with IL-2 and IL-12 Using Gene Electrotransfer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12900. [PMID: 37629081 PMCID: PMC10454179 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene immunotherapy has become an important approach in the treatment of cancer. One example is the introduction of genes encoding immunostimulatory cytokines, such as interleukin 2 and interleukin 12, which stimulate immune cells in tumours. The aim of our study was to determine the effects of gene electrotransfer of plasmids encoding interleukin 2 and interleukin 12 individually and in combination in the CT26 murine colon carcinoma cell line in mice. In the in vitro experiment, the pulse protocol that resulted in the highest expression of IL-2 and IL-12 mRNA and proteins was used for the in vivo part. In vivo, tumour growth delay and also complete response were observed in the group treated with the plasmid combination. Compared to the control group, the highest levels of various immunostimulatory cytokines and increased immune infiltration were observed in the combination group. Long-term anti-tumour immunity was observed in the combination group after tumour re-challenge. In conclusion, our combination therapy efficiently eradicated CT26 colon carcinoma in mice and also generated strong anti-tumour immune memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilen Komel
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Masa Omerzel
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Urska Kamensek
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Katarina Znidar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Ursa Lampreht Tratar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Simona Kranjc Brezar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Klemen Dolinar
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Zaloska 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (K.D.); (S.P.)
| | - Sergej Pirkmajer
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Zaloska 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (K.D.); (S.P.)
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Zdravstvena pot 5, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.O.); (U.K.); (K.Z.); (U.L.T.); (S.K.B.); (G.S.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Polje 42, SI-6310 Izola, Slovenia
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18
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Campana LG, Daud A, Lancellotti F, Arroyo JP, Davalos RV, Di Prata C, Gehl J. Pulsed Electric Fields in Oncology: A Snapshot of Current Clinical Practices and Research Directions from the 4th World Congress of Electroporation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3340. [PMID: 37444450 PMCID: PMC10340685 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The 4th World Congress of Electroporation (Copenhagen, 9-13 October 2022) provided a unique opportunity to convene leading experts in pulsed electric fields (PEF). PEF-based therapies harness electric fields to produce therapeutically useful effects on cancers and represent a valuable option for a variety of patients. As such, irreversible electroporation (IRE), gene electrotransfer (GET), electrochemotherapy (ECT), calcium electroporation (Ca-EP), and tumour-treating fields (TTF) are on the rise. Still, their full therapeutic potential remains underappreciated, and the field faces fragmentation, as shown by parallel maturation and differences in the stages of development and regulatory approval worldwide. This narrative review provides a glimpse of PEF-based techniques, including key mechanisms, clinical indications, and advances in therapy; finally, it offers insights into current research directions. By highlighting a common ground, the authors aim to break silos, strengthen cross-functional collaboration, and pave the way to novel possibilities for intervention. Intriguingly, beyond their peculiar mechanism of action, PEF-based therapies share technical interconnections and multifaceted biological effects (e.g., vascular, immunological) worth exploiting in combinatorial strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca G. Campana
- Department of Surgery, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Rd., Manchester M13 9WL, UK;
| | - Adil Daud
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16 Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA;
| | - Francesco Lancellotti
- Department of Surgery, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Rd., Manchester M13 9WL, UK;
| | - Julio P. Arroyo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (J.P.A.); (R.V.D.)
| | - Rafael V. Davalos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (J.P.A.); (R.V.D.)
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Claudia Di Prata
- Department of Surgery, San Martino Hospital, 32100 Belluno, Italy;
| | - Julie Gehl
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Milicevic S, Cemazar M, Ivancic AK, Gasljevic G, Bosnjak M, Sersa G, Peric B. Electrochemotherapy of Melanoma Cutaneous Metastases in Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098335. [PMID: 37176042 PMCID: PMC10179383 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer. The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the management of advanced melanoma, led to durable responses, and improved overall survival. However, the success of ICIs in melanoma treatment is influenced by the tumor microenvironment (TME) which plays a critical role in regulating the immune response to the tumor. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this interaction is crucial to optimizing the efficiency of ICIs. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) has been shown to enhance the efficacy of ICIs in melanoma treatment by inducing tumor cell death and facilitating the release of tumor antigens which can subsequently be recognized and targeted by the immune system. Moreover, ECT has been reported to modulate the TME, leading to increased infiltration of immune cells and a more favorable immunological profile. In this review, we summarize the available knowledge of changes in TME after ECT of melanoma cutaneous metastasis and highlight the differences in tumor-infiltrating immune cells between immunocompetent and immunosuppressed organisms. In addition, we showed that ECT can be an effective and safe procedure for organ transplant recipients. Furthermore, repeated ECT may enhance immune activation and probably induce a bystander effect by trained immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Milicevic
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Polje 42, 6310 Izola, Slovenia
| | | | - Gorana Gasljevic
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Masa Bosnjak
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Askerceva Cesta 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Zdravstvena Pot 5, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Peric
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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20
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Kesar U, Markelc B, Jesenko T, Ursic Valentinuzzi K, Cemazar M, Strojan P, Sersa G. Effects of Electrochemotherapy on Immunologically Important Modifications in Tumor Cells. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050925. [PMID: 37243029 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a clinically acknowledged method that combines the use of anticancer drugs and electrical pulses. Electrochemotherapy with bleomycin (BLM) can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in certain settings. However, whether this is ubiquitous over different cancer types and for other clinically relevant chemotherapeutics used with electrochemotherapy is unknown. Here, we evaluated in vitro in the B16-F10, 4T1 and CT26 murine tumor cell lines, the electrochemotherapy triggered changes in the ICD-associated damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs): Calreticulin (CRT), ATP, High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1), and four immunologically important cellular markers: MHCI, MHC II, PD-L1 and CD40. The changes in these markers were investigated in time up to 48 h after ECT. We showed that electrochemotherapy with all three tested chemotherapeutics induced ICD-associated DAMPs, but the induced DAMP signature was cell line and chemotherapeutic concentration specific. Similarly, electrochemotherapy with CDDP, OXA or BLM modified the expression of MHC I, MHC II, PD-L1 and CD40. The potential of electrochemotherapy to change their expression was also cell line and chemotherapeutic concentration specific. Our results thus put the electrochemotherapy with clinically relevant chemotherapeutics CDDP, OXA and BLM on the map of ICD inducing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursa Kesar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bostjan Markelc
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Jesenko
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katja Ursic Valentinuzzi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia
| | - Primoz Strojan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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21
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Spiliotis AE, Holländer S, Rudzitis-Auth J, Wagenpfeil G, Eisele R, Nika S, Mallis Kyriakides O, Laschke MW, Menger MD, Glanemann M, Gäbelein G. Evaluation of Electrochemotherapy with Bleomycin in the Treatment of Colorectal Hepatic Metastases in a Rat Model. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051598. [PMID: 36900388 PMCID: PMC10000671 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051598] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The available ablative procedures for the treatment of hepatic cancer have contraindications due to the heat-sink effect and the risk of thermal injuries. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) as a nonthermal approach may be utilized for the treatment of tumors adjacent to high-risk regions. We evaluated the effectiveness of ECT in a rat model. METHODS WAG/Rij rats were randomized to four groups and underwent ECT, reversible electroporation (rEP), or intravenous injection of bleomycin (BLM) eight days after subcapsular hepatic tumor implantation. The fourth group served as Sham. Tumor volume and oxygenation were measured before and five days after the treatment using ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging; thereafter, liver and tumor tissue were additionally analysed by histology and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The ECT group showed a stronger reduction in tumor oxygenation compared to the rEP and BLM groups; moreover, ECT-treated tumors exhibited the lowest levels of hemoglobin concentration compared to the other groups. Histological analyses further revealed a significantly increased tumor necrosis of >85% and a reduced tumor vascularization in the ECT group compared to the rEP, BLM, and Sham groups. CONCLUSION ECT is an effective approach for the treatment of hepatic tumors with necrosis rates >85% five days following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios E. Spiliotis
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +49-0304-5065-2625
| | - Sebastian Holländer
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular-, Visceral- and Pediatric Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jeannette Rudzitis-Auth
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Gudrun Wagenpfeil
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Epidemiology and Medical Informatics, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Robert Eisele
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular-, Visceral- and Pediatric Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Spyridon Nika
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Orestis Mallis Kyriakides
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular-, Visceral- and Pediatric Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Matthias W. Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Michael D. Menger
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Glanemann
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular-, Visceral- and Pediatric Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Gereon Gäbelein
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular-, Visceral- and Pediatric Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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22
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Irreversible Electroporation in Pancreatic Cancer-An Evolving Experimental and Clinical Method. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054381. [PMID: 36901812 PMCID: PMC10002122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054381] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has no symptoms until the disease has advanced and is aggressive cancer with early metastasis. Up to now, the only curative treatment is surgical resection, which is possible in the early stages of the disease. Irreversible electroporation treatment offers new hope for patients with unresectable tumors. Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a type of ablation therapy that has been explored as a potential treatment for pancreatic cancer. Ablation therapies involve the use of energy to destroy or damage cancer cells. IRE involves using high-voltage, low-energy electrical pulses to create resealing in the cell membrane, causing the cell to die. This review summarizes experiential and clinical findings in terms of the IRE applications. As was described, IRE can be a non-pharmacological approach (electroporation) or combined with anticancer drugs or standard treatment methods. The efficacy of irreversible electroporation (IRE) in eliminating pancreatic cancer cells has been demonstrated through both in vitro and in vivo studies, and it has been shown to induce an immune response. Nevertheless, further investigation is required to assess its effectiveness in human subjects and to comprehensively understand IRE's potential as a treatment option for pancreatic cancer.
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23
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Advances of Electroporation-Related Therapies and the Synergy with Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10111942. [PMID: 36423037 PMCID: PMC9692484 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10111942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroporation is the process of instantaneously increasing the permeability of a cell membrane under a pulsed electric field. Depending on the parameters of the electric pulses and the target cell electrophysiological characteristics, electroporation can be either reversible or irreversible. Reversible electroporation facilitates the delivery of functional genetic materials or drugs to target cells, inducing cell death by apoptosis, mitotic catastrophe, or pseudoapoptosis; irreversible electroporation is an ablative technology which directly ablates a large amount of tissue without causing harmful thermal effects; electrotherapy using an electric field can induce cell apoptosis without any aggressive invasion. Reversible and irreversible electroporation can also activate systemic antitumor immune response and enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss recent progress related to electroporation, and summarize its latest applications. Further, we discuss the synergistic effects of electroporation-related therapies and immunotherapy. We also propose perspectives for further investigating electroporation and immunotherapy in cancer treatment.
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24
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Ruzgys P, Navickaitė D, Palepšienė R, Uždavinytė D, Barauskaitė N, Novickij V, Girkontaitė I, Šitkauskienė B, Šatkauskas S. Induction of Bystander and Abscopal Effects after Electroporation-Based Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3770. [PMID: 35954434 PMCID: PMC9367330 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Electroporation-based antitumor therapies, including bleomycin electrotransfer, calcium electroporation, and irreversible electroporation, are very effective on directly treated tumors, but have no or low effect on distal nodules. In this study, we aimed to investigate the abscopal effect following calcium electroporation and bleomycin electrotransfer and to find out the effect of the increase of IL-2 serum concentration by muscle transfection. The bystander effect was analyzed in in vitro studies on 4T1tumor cells, while abscopal effect was investigated in an in vivo setting using Balb/c mice bearing 4T1 tumors. ELISA was used to monitor IL-2 serum concentration. We showed that, similarly to cell treatment with bleomycin electrotransfer, the bystander effect occurs also following calcium electroporation and that these effects can be combined. Combination of these treatments also resulted in the enhancement of the abscopal effect in vivo. Since these treatments resulted in an increase of IL-2 serum concentration only in mice bearing one but not two tumors, we increased IL-2 serum concentration by muscle transfection. Although this did not enhance the abscopal effect of combined tumor treatment using calcium electroporation and bleomycin electrotransfer, boosting of IL-2 serum concentration had a significant inhibitory effect on directly treated tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulius Ruzgys
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
| | - Diana Navickaitė
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
| | - Rūta Palepšienė
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
| | - Dovilė Uždavinytė
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
| | - Neringa Barauskaitė
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Irutė Girkontaitė
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, LT-08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Brigita Šitkauskienė
- Department of Immunology and Allergology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 2, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Saulius Šatkauskas
- Biophysical Research Group, Vytautas Magnus University, Vileikos St. 8, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.R.); (D.N.); (R.P.); (D.U.); (N.B.)
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