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Stoup N, Liberelle M, Lebègue N, Van Seuningen I. Emerging paradigms and recent progress in targeting ErbB in cancers. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:552-576. [PMID: 38797570 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.04.009] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family is a class of transmembrane proteins, highly regarded as anticancer targets due to their pivotal role in various malignancies. Standard cancer treatments targeting the ErbB receptors include tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Despite their substantial survival benefits, the achievement of curative outcomes is hindered by acquired resistance. Recent advancements in anti-ErbB approaches, such as inhibitory peptides, nanobodies, targeted-protein degradation strategies, and bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), aim to overcome such resistance. More recently, emerging insights into the cell surface interactome of the ErbB family open new avenues for modulating ErbB signaling by targeting specific domains of ErbB partners. Here, we review recent progress in ErbB targeting and elucidate emerging paradigms that underscore the significance of EGF domain-containing proteins (EDCPs) as new ErbB-targeting pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Stoup
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Maxime Liberelle
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S 1172 - LiNC -Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Lebègue
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S 1172 - LiNC -Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Isabelle Van Seuningen
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France.
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Vahidi S, Zabeti Touchaei A, Samadani AA. IL-15 as a key regulator in NK cell-mediated immunotherapy for cancer: From bench to bedside. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112156. [PMID: 38669950 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112156] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin 15 (IL-15) has emerged as a crucial factor in the relationship between natural killer (NK) cells and immunotherapy for cancer. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of IL-15 in NK cell-mediated immunotherapy. First, the key role of IL-15 signaling in NK cell immunity is discussed, highlighting its regulation of NK cell functions and antitumor properties. Furthermore, the use of IL-15 or its analogs in clinical trials as a therapeutic strategy for various cancers, including the genetic modification of NK cells to produce IL-15, has been explored. The potential of IL-15-based therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T and NK cell infusion along with IL-15 in combination with checkpoint inhibitors and other treatments, has been examined. This review also addresses the challenges and advantages of incorporating IL-15 in cell-based immunotherapy. Additionally, unresolved questions regarding the detection and biological significance of the soluble IL-15/IL-15Rα complex, as well as the potential role of IL-15/IL-15Rα in human cancer and the immunological consequences of prolonged exposure to soluble IL-15 for NK cells, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | | | - Ali Akbar Samadani
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Trauma Institute, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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Ren Y, Feng L, Tan Z, Zhou F, Liu S. Constructing a novel prognostic model for triple-negative breast cancer based on genes associated with vasculogenic mimicry. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8086-8109. [PMID: 38728245 PMCID: PMC11132006 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205806] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has shown a connection between vasculogenic mimicry (VM) and cancer progression. However, the functions of genes related to VM in the emergence and progression of TNBC have not been completely elucidated. METHODS A survival risk model was constructed by screening biomarkers using DESeq2 and WGCNA based on public TNBC transcriptome data. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis was performed, and tumor microenvironment and drug sensitivity were analyzed. The selected biomarkers were validated via quantitative PCR detection, immunohistochemical staining, and protein detection in breast cancer cell lines. Biomarkers related to the proliferation and migration of TNBC cells were validated via in vitro experiments. RESULTS The findings revealed that 235 target genes were connected to the complement and coagulation cascade pathways. The risk score was constructed using KCND2, NRP1, and VSTM4. The prognosis model using the risk score and pathological T stage yielded good validation results. The clinical risk of TNBC was associated with the angiogenesis signaling pathway, and the low-risk group exhibited better sensitivity to immunotherapy. Quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry indicated that the expression levels of KCND2 in TNBC tissues were higher than those in adjacent nontumor tissues. In the TNBC cell line, the protein expression of KCND2 was increased. Knockdown of KCND2 and VSTM4 inhibited the proliferation and migration of TNBC cells in vitro. CONCLUSIONS In this study, three VM-related biomarkers were identified, including KCND2, NRP1, and VSTM4. These findings are likely to aid in deepening our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of VM in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ren
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Luyi Feng
- Information Department of Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhihua Tan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Fulin Zhou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, Guiyang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Guiyang, China
- The Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shu Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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Pei Y, Han S, Li C, Lei J, Wen F. Data-based modeling of breast cancer and optimal therapy. J Theor Biol 2023; 573:111593. [PMID: 37544589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2023.111593] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Excessive accumulation of β-catenin proteins is a vital driver in the development of breast cancer. Many clinical assessments incorporating immunotherapy with targeted mRNA of β-catenin are costly endeavor. This paper develops novel mathematical models for different treatments by invoking available clinical data to calibrate models, along with the selection and evaluation of therapy strategies in a faster manner with lower cost. Firstly, in order to explore the interactions between cancer cells and the immune system within the tumor microenvironment, we construct different types of breast cancer treatment models based on RNA interference technique and immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have been proved to be an effective combined therapy in pre-clinical trials associated with the inhibition of β-catenin proteins to enhance intrinsic anti-tumor immune response. Secondly, various techniques including MCMC are adopted to estimate multiple parameters and thus simulations in agreement with experimental results sustain the validity of our models. Furthermore, the gradient descent method and particle swarm algorithm are designed to optimize therapy schemes to inhibit the growth of tumor and lower the treatment cost. Considering the mechanisms of drug resistance in vivo, simulations exhibit that therapies are ineffective resulting in cancer relapse in the prolonged time. For this reason, parametric sensitivity analysis sheds light on the choice of new treatments which indicate that, in addition to inhibiting β-catenin proteins and improving self-immunity, the injection of dendritic cells promoting immunity may provide a novel vision for the future of cancer treatment. Overall, our study provides witness of principle from a mathematical perspective to guide clinical trials and the selection of treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhen Pei
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
| | - Siqi Han
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
| | - Changguo Li
- Department of Basic Science, Army Military Transportation University, Tianjin 300161, China.
| | - Jinzhi Lei
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
| | - Fengxi Wen
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
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Huan T, Guan B, Li H, Tu X, Zhang C, Tang B. Principles and current clinical landscape of NK cell engaging bispecific antibody against cancer. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2256904. [PMID: 37772505 PMCID: PMC10543353 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2256904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibody-based targeted therapies have greatly improved treatment options for patients by binding to the innate immune system. However, the long-term efficacy of such antibodies is limited by mechanisms of drug resistance. Over the last 50 years, with advances in protein engineering technology, more and more bispecific antibody (bsAb) platforms have been engineered to meet diverse clinical needs. Bispecific NK cell engagers (BiKEs) or tri-specific NK cell engagers (TriKEs) allow for direct targeting of immune cells to tumors, and therefore resistance and serious adverse effects are greatly reduced. Many preclinical and clinical trials are currently underway, depicting the promise of antibody-based natural killer cell engager therapeutics. In this review, we compile worldwide efforts to explore the involvement of NK cells in bispecific antibodies. With a particular emphasis on lessons learned, we focus on preclinical and clinical studies in malignancies and discuss the reasons for the limited success of NK-cell engagers against solid tumors, offering plausible new ideas for curing some advanced cancers shortly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Huan
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bugao Guan
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiu Tu
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Jinhu County People’s Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
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Liu Z, Ding M, Qiu P, Pan K, Guo Q. Natural killer cell-related prognostic risk model predicts prognosis and treatment outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200282. [PMID: 37520534 PMCID: PMC10373504 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial to the emergence, identification, and prognosis of cancers. The roles of NK cell-related genes in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and immunotherapy treatment are unclear. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor. Hence, this study was conducted to develop a reliable risk model related to NK cells and provide a novel system for predicting the prognosis of TNBC. Methods NK cell-related genes were collected from previous studies. Based on TCGA and GEO database, univariate and LASSO cox regression analysis were used to establish the NK cell-related gene signature. The patients with TNBC were separated to high-risk and low-risk groups. After that, survival analysis was conducted and the responses to immunotherapies were evaluated on the basis of the signature. Moreover, the drug sensitivity of some traditional chemotherapeutic drugs was assessed by using the "oncoPredict" R package. In addition, the expression levels of the genes involved in the signature were validated by using qRT-PCR in TNBC cell lines. Results The patients with TNBC were divided into high- and low-risk groups according to the median risk score of the 5-NK cell-related gene signature. The low-risk group was associated with a better clinical outcome. Besides, the differentially expressed genes between the different risk groups were enriched in the biological activities associated with immunity. The tumor immune cells were found to be highly infiltrated in the low-risk groups. In accordance with the TIDE score and immune checkpoint-related gene expression analysis, TNBC patients in the low-risk groups were suggested to have better responses to immunotherapies. Eventually, some classical anti-tumor drugs were shown to be less effective in high-risk groups than in low-risk groups. Conclusion The 5-NK cell-related gene signature exhibit outstanding predictive performance and provide fresh viewpoints for evaluating the success of immunotherapy. It will provide new insights to achieve precision and integrated treatment for TNBC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zundong Liu
- Stem Cell Laboratory, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Mingji Ding
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Pengjun Qiu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Kelun Pan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Qiaonan Guo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
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Lejeune M, Reverté L, Gallardo N, Sauras E, Bosch R, Mata D, Roso A, Petit A, Peg V, Riu F, García-Fontgivell J, Relea F, Vieites B, de la Cruz-Merino L, Arenas M, Rodriguez V, Galera J, Korzynska A, Plancoulaine B, Álvaro T, López C. Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Expression Is Associated with the Absence of Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11297. [PMID: 37511057 PMCID: PMC10378773 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411297] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is particularly challenging due to the weak or absent response to therapeutics and its poor prognosis. The effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) response is strongly influenced by changes in elements of the tumor microenvironment (TME). This work aimed to characterize the residual TME composition in 96 TNBC patients using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques and evaluate its prognostic implications for partial responders vs. non-responders. Compared with non-responders, partial responders containing higher levels of CD83+ mature dendritic cells, FOXP3+ regulatory T cells, and IL-15 expression but lower CD138+ cell concentration exhibited better OS and RFS. However, along with tumor diameter and positive nodal status at diagnosis, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression in the residual TME was identified as an independent factor associated with the impaired response to NAC. This study yields new insights into the key components of the residual tumor bed, such as MMP-9, which is strictly associated with the lack of a pathological response to NAC. This knowledge might help early identification of TNBC patients less likely to respond to NAC and allow the establishment of new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marylène Lejeune
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Laia Reverté
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Noèlia Gallardo
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Esther Sauras
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
- Clinical Studies Unit, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Carretera Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Ramon Bosch
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Daniel Mata
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Albert Roso
- Institut Universitari d'Investigació en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol (IDIAP Jordi Gol), Gran Via Corts Catalanes, 587, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Petit
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Peg
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitari de Vall Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Riu
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, 43204 Reus, Spain
| | - Joan García-Fontgivell
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43005 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Fernanda Relea
- Pathology Department, Hospital General de Ciudad Real, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Begoña Vieites
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | | | - Meritxell Arenas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Valeri Rodriguez
- Oncology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Juana Galera
- Gynaecology Department, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43005 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Anna Korzynska
- Laboratory of Processing and Analysis of Microscopic Images, Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Benoît Plancoulaine
- ANTICIPE, INSERM, François Baclesse Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Caen Normandy, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Tomás Álvaro
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
| | - Carlos López
- Oncological Pathology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Molecular Biology and Research Section, Pathology Department, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Esplanetes, 14, 43500 Tortosa, Spain
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Li R, Cao L. The role of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in triple-negative breast cancer and the research progress of adoptive cell therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1194020. [PMID: 37275874 PMCID: PMC10233026 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1194020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment outcome of breast cancer is closely related to estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacking ER, PR, and HER2 expression has limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) play a role in promoting or resisting tumors by affecting the tumor microenvironment and are known as key regulators in breast cancer progression. However, treatments for TNBC (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy) have non-satisfaction's curative effect so far. This article reviews the role of different types of TILs in TNBC and the research progress of adoptive cell therapy, aiming to provide new therapeutic approaches for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruonan Li
- Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine and Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
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Luo Y, Ye Y, Chen Y, Zhang C, Sun Y, Wang C, Ou J. A degradome-based prognostic signature that correlates with immune infiltration and tumor mutation burden in breast cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1140993. [PMID: 36993976 PMCID: PMC10040797 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1140993] [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: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionFemale breast cancer is the most common malignancy worldwide, with a high disease burden. The degradome is the most abundant class of cellular enzymes that play an essential role in regulating cellular activity. Dysregulation of the degradome may disrupt cellular homeostasis and trigger carcinogenesis. Thus we attempted to understand the prognostic role of degradome in breast cancer by means of establishing a prognostic signature based on degradome-related genes (DRGs) and assessed its clinical utility in multiple dimensions.MethodsA total of 625 DRGs were obtained for analysis. Transcriptome data and clinical information of patients with breast cancer from TCGA-BRCA, METABRIC and GSE96058 were collected. NetworkAnalyst and cBioPortal were also utilized for analysis. LASSO regression analysis was employed to construct the degradome signature. Investigations of the degradome signature concerning clinical association, functional characterization, mutation landscape, immune infiltration, immune checkpoint expression and drug priority were orchestrated. Cell phenotype assays including colony formation, CCK8, transwell and wound healing were conducted in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-435S breast cancer cell lines, respectively.ResultsA 10-gene signature was developed and verified as an independent prognostic predictor combined with other clinicopathological parameters in breast cancer. The prognostic nomogram based on risk score (calculated based on the degradome signature) showed favourable capability in survival prediction and advantage in clinical benefit. High risk scores were associated with a higher degree of clinicopathological events (T4 stage and HER2-positive) and mutation frequency. Regulation of toll-like receptors and several cell cycle promoting activities were upregulated in the high-risk group. PIK3CA and TP53 mutations were dominant in the low- and high-risk groups, respectively. A significantly positive correlation was observed between the risk score and tumor mutation burden. The infiltration levels of immune cells and the expressions of immune checkpoints were significantly influenced by the risk score. Additionally, the degradome signature adequately predicted the survival of patients undergoing endocrinotherapy or radiotherapy. Patients in the low-risk group may achieve complete response after the first round of chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide and docetaxel, whereas patients in the high-risk group may benefit from 5-flfluorouracil. Several regulators of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and the CDK family/PARP family were identified as potential molecular targets in the low- and high-risk groups, respectively. In vitro experiments further revealed that the knockdown of ABHD12 and USP41 significantly inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration of breast cancer cells.ConclusionMultidimensional evaluation verified the clinical utility of the degradome signature in predicting prognosis, risk stratification and guiding treatment for patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulou Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yinghui Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Chenguang Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yutian Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengwei Wang
- Cancer Research Institute of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- *Correspondence: Chengwei Wang, ; Jianghua Ou,
| | - Jianghua Ou
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- *Correspondence: Chengwei Wang, ; Jianghua Ou,
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Barnestein R, Galland L, Kalfeist L, Ghiringhelli F, Ladoire S, Limagne E. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment modulation by chemotherapies and targeted therapies to enhance immunotherapy effectiveness. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2120676. [PMID: 36117524 PMCID: PMC9481153 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2120676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid clinical development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the standard of care in cancer management has evolved rapidly. However, immunotherapy is not currently beneficial for all patients. In addition to intrinsic tumor factors, other etiologies of resistance to ICIs arise from the complex interplay between cancer and its microenvironment. Recognition of the essential role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer progression has led to a shift from a tumor-cell-centered view of cancer development, to the concept of a complex tumor ecosystem that supports tumor growth and metastatic dissemination. The expansion of immunosuppressive cells represents a cardinal strategy deployed by tumor cells to escape detection and elimination by the immune system. Regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and type-2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAM2) are major components of these inhibitory cellular networks, with the ability to suppress innate and adaptive anticancer immunity. They therefore represent major impediments to anticancer therapies, particularly immune-based interventions. Recent work has provided evidence that, beyond their direct cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, several conventional chemotherapeutic (CT) drugs and agents used in targeted therapies (TT) can promote the elimination or inactivation of suppressive immune cells, resulting in enhanced antitumor immunity. In this review, we will analyze findings pertaining to this concept, discuss the possible molecular bases underlying the selective targeting of these immunosuppressive cells by antineoplastic agents (CT and/or TT), and consider current challenges and future prospects related to the integration of these molecules into more efficient anticancer strategies, in the era of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robby Barnestein
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
| | - Loïck Galland
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Georges François Leclerc Center, Dijon, France
| | - Laura Kalfeist
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France
- Genomic and Immunotherapy Medical Institute, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - François Ghiringhelli
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Georges François Leclerc Center, Dijon, France
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France
- Genomic and Immunotherapy Medical Institute, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Sylvain Ladoire
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Georges François Leclerc Center, Dijon, France
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France
- Genomic and Immunotherapy Medical Institute, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Emeric Limagne
- University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Georges François Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Georges François Leclerc Center, Dijon, France
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France
- Genomic and Immunotherapy Medical Institute, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
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11
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Current Progress of CAR-NK Therapy in Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174318. [PMID: 36077853 PMCID: PMC9454439 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T and -natural killer (NK) therapies are promising in cancer treatment. CAR-NK therapy gains great attention due to the lack of adverse effects observed in CAR-T therapies and to the NK cells’ unique mechanisms of recognizing target cells. Off-the-shelf products are in urgent need, not only for good yields, but also for lower cost and shorter preparation time. The current progress of CAR-NK therapy is discussed. Abstract CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells eliminate target cells through the release of lytic granules and Fas ligand (FasL)-induced target cell apoptosis. The introduction of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) makes these two types of cells selective and effective in killing cancer cells. The success of CAR-T therapy in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and other types of blood cancers proved that the immunotherapy is an effective approach in fighting against cancers, yet adverse effects, such as graft versus host disease (GvHD) and cytokine release syndrome (CRS), cannot be ignored for the CAR-T therapy. CAR-NK therapy, then, has its advantage in lacking these adverse effects and works as effective as CAR-T in terms of killing. Despite these, NK cells are known to be hard to transduce, expand in vitro, and sustain shorter in vivo comparing to infiltrated T cells. Moreover, CAR-NK therapy faces challenges as CAR-T therapy does, e.g., the time, the cost, and the potential biohazard due to the use of animal-derived products. Thus, enormous efforts are needed to develop safe, effective, and large-scalable protocols for obtaining CAR-NK cells. Here, we reviewed current progress of CAR-NK therapy, including its biological properties, CAR compositions, preparation of CAR-NK cells, and clinical progresses. We also discussed safety issues raised from genetic engineering. We hope this review is instructive to the research community and a broad range of readers.
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12
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Corogeanu D, Diebold SS. Direct and Indirect Engagement of Dendritic Cell Function by Antibodies Developed for Cancer Therapy. Clin Exp Immunol 2022; 209:64-71. [PMID: 35352109 PMCID: PMC9307232 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are crucial for the priming of T cells and thereby influence adaptive immune responses. Hence, they also represent important players in shaping anti-tumour immune responses. Cancer immunotherapy has been driven over many years by the aim to harness the T-cell stimulatory activity of these crucial antigen-presenting cells (APC). Efficient antigen delivery alone is not sufficient for full engagement of the T-cell stimulatory activity of DC and the inclusion of adjuvants triggering appropriate DC activation is essential to ensure effective anti-tumour immunity induction. While the direct engagement of DC function is a powerful tool for tumour immunotherapy, many therapeutic antibodies, such as antibodies directed against tumour-associated antigens (TAA) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been shown to engage DC function indirectly. The induction of anti-tumour immune responses by TAA-targeting and immune checkpoint inhibitory antibodies is thought to be integral to their therapeutic efficacy. Here, we provide an overview of the immunotherapeutic antibodies in the context of cancer immunotherapy, that has been demonstrated to directly or indirectly engage DC and discuss the current understanding of the functional mechanisms underlying anti-tumour immunity induction by these antibody therapies. In the future, the combination of therapeutic strategies that engage DC function directly and/or indirectly with strategies that allow tumour infiltrating immune effector cells to exert their anti-tumour activity in the tumour microenvironment (TME) may be key for the successful treatment of cancer patients currently not responding to immunotherapeutic antibody treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Corogeanu
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), Biotherapeutics Division, Potters Bar, UK.,Current Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Freeman Hospital, High Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sandra S Diebold
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), Biotherapeutics Division, Potters Bar, UK
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13
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Kheshti AMS, Hajizadeh F, Barshidi A, Rashidi B, Ebrahimi F, Bahmanpour S, Karpisheh V, Noukabadi FK, Kiani FK, Hassannia H, Atyabi F, Kiaie SH, Kashanchi F, Navashenaq JG, Mohammadi H, Bagherifar R, Jafari R, Zolbanin NM, Jadidi-Niaragh F. Combination Cancer Immunotherapy with Dendritic Cell Vaccine and Nanoparticles Loaded with Interleukin-15 and Anti-beta-catenin siRNA Significantly Inhibits Cancer Growth and Induces Anti-Tumor Immune Response. Pharm Res 2022; 39:353-367. [PMID: 35166995 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03169-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The invention and application of new immunotherapeutic methods can compensate for the inefficiency of conventional cancer treatment approaches, partly due to the inhibitory microenvironment of the tumor. In this study, we tried to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce anti-tumor immune responses by silencing the expression of the β-catenin in the tumor microenvironment and transmitting interleukin (IL)-15 cytokine to provide optimal conditions for the dendritic cell (DC) vaccine. METHODS For this purpose, we used folic acid (FA)-conjugated SPION-carboxymethyl dextran (CMD) chitosan (C) nanoparticles (NPs) to deliver anti-β-catenin siRNA and IL-15 to cancer cells. RESULTS The results showed that the codelivery of β-catenin siRNA and IL-15 significantly reduced the growth of cancer cells and increased the immune response. The treatment also considerably stimulated the performance of the DC vaccine in triggering anti-tumor immunity, which inhibited tumor development and increased survival in mice in two different cancer models. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the use of new nanocarriers such as SPION-C-CMD-FA could be an effective way to use as a novel combination therapy consisting of β-catenin siRNA, IL-15, and DC vaccine to treat cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry
- Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Cancer Vaccines/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Dendritic Cells/immunology
- Dendritic Cells/transplantation
- Drug Carriers
- Drug Compounding
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Interleukin-15/administration & dosage
- Interleukin-15/chemistry
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
- Melanoma, Experimental/genetics
- Melanoma, Experimental/immunology
- Melanoma, Experimental/pathology
- Melanoma, Experimental/therapy
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- RNA, Small Interfering/administration & dosage
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNAi Therapeutics
- Skin Neoplasms/genetics
- Skin Neoplasms/immunology
- Skin Neoplasms/pathology
- Skin Neoplasms/therapy
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment
- beta Catenin/genetics
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farnaz Hajizadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Asal Barshidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Bentolhoda Rashidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farbod Ebrahimi
- Nanoparticle Process Technology, Faculty of Engineering, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Simin Bahmanpour
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Karpisheh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Fariba Karoon Kiani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hadi Hassannia
- Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Amol Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Kiaie
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6715847141, Iran
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Rafieh Bagherifar
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6715847141, Iran
| | - Reza Jafari
- Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Hematology, Immune Cell Therapy, and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Naime Majidi Zolbanin
- Hematology, Immune Cell Therapy, and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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14
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Fan Y, He S. The Characteristics of Tumor Microenvironment in Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:1-17. [PMID: 35018117 PMCID: PMC8740624 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s316700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a special subtype of breast cancer, accounting for 10-20% of breast cancers with high intrinsic heterogeneity. Its unique immune microenvironment, including high expression of vascular endothelial growth factors, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and other molecules that promote the growth and migration of tumor cells, has been shown to play a dual role in the occurrence, growth, and metastasis of TNBC. Understanding the TNBC microenvironment is of great significance for the prognosis and treatment of TNBC. In this article, we describe the composition and function of immune cells in the TNBC microenvironment and summarize the major cytokine growth factors and chemokines in the TNBC microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the progress of TNBC, cytokine-induced killer cell therapy, and immune checkpoint therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuai He
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, People’s Republic of China
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15
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You KS, Yi YW, Cho J, Park JS, Seong YS. Potentiating Therapeutic Effects of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:589. [PMID: 34207383 PMCID: PMC8233743 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subset of breast cancer with aggressive characteristics and few therapeutic options. The lack of an appropriate therapeutic target is a challenging issue in treating TNBC. Although a high level expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been associated with a poor prognosis among patients with TNBC, targeted anti-EGFR therapies have demonstrated limited efficacy for TNBC treatment in both clinical and preclinical settings. However, with the advantage of a number of clinically approved EGFR inhibitors (EGFRis), combination strategies have been explored as a promising approach to overcome the intrinsic resistance of TNBC to EGFRis. In this review, we analyzed the literature on the combination of EGFRis with other molecularly targeted therapeutics or conventional chemotherapeutics to understand the current knowledge and to provide potential therapeutic options for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyu Sic You
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea;
- Graduate School of Convergence Medical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 3116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea
| | - Yong Weon Yi
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea; (Y.W.Y.); (J.C.)
| | - Jeonghee Cho
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea; (Y.W.Y.); (J.C.)
| | - Jeong-Soo Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea;
| | - Yeon-Sun Seong
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea;
- Graduate School of Convergence Medical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 3116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea; (Y.W.Y.); (J.C.)
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16
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IL15RA and SMAD3 Genetic Variants Predict Overall Survival in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients Treated with FOLFIRI Therapy: A New Paradigm. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071705. [PMID: 33916844 PMCID: PMC8038482 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There is an increasing scientific interest in the study of the interaction between the immune system and drugs in cancer that can affect the efficacy of an anti-cancer treatment. This study was undertaken to better understand if the genetic characteristic of a cancer patient’s immune system can predict the tumor response to the treatment and the duration of survival. The topic was studied on 335 metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with a first-line chemotherapy (FOLFIRI regimen, irinotecan-5-fluorouracil-leucovorin). The research highlighted two markers, IL15RA-rs7910212 and SMAD3-rs7179840, significantly associated with the patient’s survival. When considering IL15RA-rs7910212 and SMAD3-rs7179840 in combination with other two genetic markers previously investigated (NR1I2-rs1054190, VDR-rs7299460), we built up a highly predictive genetic score of survival. The herein identified markers must be further validated, but still represent good candidates to understand how much a patient with a metastatic colorectal cancer can benefit from a chemotherapy with FOLFIRI regimen. Abstract A new paradigm in cancer chemotherapy derives from the interaction between chemotherapeutics, including irinotecan and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and the immune system. The patient’s immune response can modulate chemotherapy effectiveness, and, on the other hand, chemotherapeutic agents can foster tumor cell immunogenicity. On these grounds, the analysis of the cancer patients’ immunogenetic characteristics and their effect on survival after chemotherapy represent a new frontier. This study aims to identify genetic determinants in the immuno-related pathways predictive of overall survival (OS) after FOLFIRI (irinotecan, 5-FU, leucovorin) therapy. Two independent cohorts comprising a total of 335 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) homogeneously treated with first-line FOLFIRI were included in the study. The prognostic effect of 192 tagging genetic polymorphisms in 34 immune-related genes was evaluated using the bead array technology. The IL15RA rs7910212-C allele was associated with worse OS in both discovery (HR: 1.57, p = 0.0327, Bootstrap p-value = 0.0280) and replication (HR: 1.71, p = 0.0411) cohorts. Conversely, SMAD3 rs7179840-C allele was associated with better OS in both discovery (HR: 0.65, p = 0.0202, Bootstrap p-value = 0.0203) and replication (HR: 0.61, p = 0.0216) cohorts. A genetic prognostic score was generated integrating IL15RA-rs7910212 and SMAD3-rs7179840 markers with inflammation-related prognostic polymorphisms we previously identified in the same study population (i.e., PXR [NR1I2]-rs1054190, VDR-rs7299460). The calculated genetic score successfully discriminated patients with different survival probabilities (p < 0.0001 log-rank test). These findings provide new insight on the prognostic value of genetic determinants, such as IL15RA and SMAD3 markers, and could offer a new decision tool to improve the clinical management of patients with mCRC receiving FOLFIRI.
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17
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Preparation of a novel EGFR specific immunotoxin and its efficacy of anti-colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo. Clin Transl Oncol 2021; 23:1549-1560. [PMID: 33474678 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-020-02548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR), as a malignancy marker, is overly expressed in multiple solid tumors including colorectal neoplasms, one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. The main objective of this study is to enhance the efficacy of anti-tumor therapy targeting EGFR by constructing a novel EGFR-specific immunotoxin (C-CUS245C) based on Cetuximab and recombinant Cucurmosin (CUS245C). METHODS E. coli BL21 (DE3) PlysS (E. coli) was used to express CUS245C with a cysteine residue inserting to the C-terminus of Cucurmosin. Then immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) was used to purify CUS245C. The chemical conjugation method was used for the preparation of C-CUS245C. Then dialysis and IMAC were used to purify C-CUS245C. Western blot as well as SDS-PAGE was carried out to characterize the formation of C-CUS245C. At last the anti-colorectal cancer activity of C-CUS245C was investigated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS CUS245C with high purity could be obtained from the prokaryotic system. C-CUS245C was successfully constructed and highly purified. The cytotoxicity assays in vitro showed a significant proliferation inhibition of C-CUS245C on EGFR-positive cells for 120 h with IC50 values less than 0.1 pM. Besides, the anti-tumor efficacy of C-CUS245C was remarkably more potent than that of Cetuximab, CUS245C, and C + CUS245C (P < 0.001). Whereas the cytotoxicity of C-CUS245C could hardly be detected on EGFR-null cell line. Our results also showed that C-CUS245C had efficacy of anti-colorectal cancer in mouse xenograft model, indicating the therapeutic potential of C-CUS245C for the targeted therapy of colorectal neoplasms. CONCLUSIONS C-CUS245C exhibits potent and EGFR-specific cytotoxicity. Insertional mutagenesis technique is worthy to be adopted in the preparation of immunotoxin. Immunotoxin can be highly purified through dialysis followed by IMAC.
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18
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Zhang S, Zhao J, Bai X, Handley M, Shan F. Biological effects of IL-15 on immune cells and its potential for the treatment of cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 91:107318. [PMID: 33383444 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) has recently emerged as a novel immunomodulatory cytokine in cancer immunotherapy. IL-15 has the potential to reject and destroy cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment by expanding and activating natural killer (NK), natural killer T (NKT), and memory (m) CD8+T cells. Due to the feasible outcomes obtained from preclinical studies and phase 1/2 clinical trials, IL-15-based therapy, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell or CAR NK cell infusion following in vitro expansion in the presence of IL-15, used in combination with checkpoint inhibitors and other therapy may extend to clinical practice in the future. It is also important to understand the biological characteristics of IL-15 to ensure the maximal benefit of therapeutic strategies. Here, we summarize the current development of IL-15 in the following areas: anti-tumor mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, advances in IL-15-based therapy itself or in combination with other methods, including biological agents, monoclonal antibodies, and adoptive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianzhu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Mike Handley
- Cytocm lnc, 3001 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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