1
|
Wang J, Wang Y, Jiang X. Targeting anticancer immunity in melanoma tumour microenvironment: unleashing the potential of adjuvants, drugs, and phytochemicals. J Drug Target 2024:1-21. [PMID: 39041142 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2384071] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma poses a challenge in oncology because of its aggressive nature and limited treatment modalities. The tumour microenvironment (TME) in melanoma contains unique properties such as an immunosuppressive and high-density environment, unusual vasculature, and a high number of stromal and immunosuppressive cells. In recent years, numerous experiments have focused on boosting the immune system to effectively remove malignant cells. Adjuvants, consisting of phytochemicals, toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists, and cytokines, have shown encouraging results in triggering antitumor immunity and augmenting the therapeutic effectiveness of anticancer therapy. These adjuvants can stimulate the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (CTLs). Furthermore, nanocarriers can help to deliver immunomodulators and antigens directly to the tumour stroma, thereby improving their efficacy against malignant cells. The remodelling of melanoma TME utilising phytochemicals, agonists, and other adjuvants can be combined with current modalities for improving therapy outcomes. This review article explores the potential of adjuvants, drugs, and their nanoformulations in enhancing the anticancer potency of macrophages, CTLs, and natural killer (NK) cells. Additionally, the capacity of these agents to repress the function of immunosuppressive components of melanoma TME, such as immunosuppressive subsets of macrophages, stromal and myeloid cells will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Wang
- Emergency Department, Zhejiang Provincial General Hospital of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Respiratory and Oncology Department, Zhejiang Provincial General Hospital of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofang Jiang
- Respiratory and Oncology Department, Zhejiang Provincial General Hospital of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mentucci FM, Romero Nuñez EA, Ercole A, Silvetti V, Dal Col J, Lamberti MJ. Impact of Genomic Mutation on Melanoma Immune Microenvironment and IFN-1 Pathway-Driven Therapeutic Responses. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2568. [PMID: 39061208 PMCID: PMC11274745 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142568] [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: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The BRAFV600E mutation, found in approximately 50% of melanoma cases, plays a crucial role in the activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, which promotes tumor cell proliferation. This study aimed to evaluate its impact on the melanoma immune microenvironment and therapeutic responses, particularly focusing on immunogenic cell death (ICD), a pivotal cytotoxic process triggering anti-tumor immune responses. Through comprehensive in silico analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas data, we explored the association between the BRAFV600E mutation, immune subtype dynamics, and tumor mutation burden (TMB). Our findings revealed that the mutation correlated with a lower TMB, indicating a reduced generation of immunogenic neoantigens. Investigation into immune subtypes reveals an exacerbation of immunosuppression mechanisms in BRAFV600E-mutated tumors. To assess the response to ICD inducers, including doxorubicin and Me-ALA-based photodynamic therapy (PDT), compared to the non-ICD inducer cisplatin, we used distinct melanoma cell lines with wild-type BRAF (SK-MEL-2) and BRAFV600E mutation (SK-MEL-28, A375). We demonstrated a differential response to PDT between the WT and BRAFV600E cell lines. Further transcriptomic analysis revealed upregulation of IFNAR1, IFNAR2, and CXCL10 genes associated with the BRAFV600E mutation, suggesting their involvement in ICD. Using a gene reporter assay, we showed that PDT robustly activated the IFN-1 pathway through cGAS-STING signaling. Collectively, our results underscore the complex interplay between the BRAFV600E mutation and immune responses, suggesting a putative correlation between tumors carrying the mutation and their responsiveness to therapies inducing the IFN-1 pathway, such as the ICD inducer PDT, possibly mediated by the elevated expression of IFNAR1/2 receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fátima María Mentucci
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, INBIAS, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina; (F.M.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Elisa Ayelén Romero Nuñez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, INBIAS, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina; (F.M.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Agustina Ercole
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, INBIAS, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina; (F.M.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Valentina Silvetti
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, INBIAS, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina; (F.M.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Jessica Dal Col
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy;
| | - María Julia Lamberti
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, INBIAS, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto X5800BIA, Argentina; (F.M.M.); (V.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tang B, Duan R, Zhang X, Qin S, Wu D, Chen J, Yao H, Chi Z, Guo J, Yan X. Five-Year Follow-Up of POLARIS-01 Phase II Trial: Toripalimab as Salvage Monotherapy in Chinese Patients With Advanced Melanoma. Oncologist 2024; 29:e822-e827. [PMID: 38547052 PMCID: PMC11144968 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyae045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the efficacy and toxicity after long-term follow-up of anti-PD-1 antibody in advanced melanoma with predominantly acral and mucosal subtypes. METHODS AND PATIENTS In the POLARIS-01 phase II trial, 128 Chinese patients with advanced melanoma refractory to standard therapy received toripalimab until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity for ≤2 years. For those who progressed after discontinuation due to 2-year treatment completion, rechallenge was allowed. The primary objectives were safety and overall response rate (ORR). RESULTS As of February 8, 2021, ORR was 17.3% (95% CI: 11.2-25.0) evaluated by the independent radiologic review committee. The median overall survival (OS) for patients with known melanoma subtypes was 16.3 m for acral, 41.5 m for nonacral cutaneous, and 10.3 m for mucosal melanoma. Thereafter, the evaluation was continued by investigators. As of November 4, 2022, 5 years after the last enrollment, median duration of response was 15.6 months (range, 3.7-64.5+), median progression-free survival (PFS) was 3.5 months (95% CI, 2.2-5.3), and 60-month OS rate was 28.5% (95% CI: 20.2-37.2). Thirteen patients completed a 2-year treatment of toripalimab, with the subtypes of acral (2/13), non-acral cutaneous (4/13), mucosal (3/13) and unknown primary (4/13). Five patients were rechallenged. Four of them, all of whom were non-mucosal, completed the rechallenge course of 2 years with PFS ≥ 24 months. CONCLUSIONS This is the largest prospective anti-PD-1 trial with mature data in advanced melanoma in China. Toripalimab demonstrated a manageable safety profile and durable clinical response in Chinese patients with metastatic melanoma who had failed in standard therapy. Immunotherapy seems less efficacious for long-term responders with mucosal primaries as rechallenge therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bixia Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rong Duan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoshi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuikui Qin
- Cancer Centre of Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine and Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Tumor Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Chen
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Yao
- Department of Cancer Biotherapy Center, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province & The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University and Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihong Chi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xieqiao Yan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Qin S, Xie B, Wang Q, Yang R, Sun J, Hu C, Liu S, Tao Y, Xiao D. New insights into immune cells in cancer immunotherapy: from epigenetic modification, metabolic modulation to cell communication. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e551. [PMID: 38783893 PMCID: PMC11112485 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.551] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and more effective ways of attacking cancer are being sought. Cancer immunotherapy is a new and effective therapeutic method after surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Cancer immunotherapy aims to kill tumor cells by stimulating or rebuilding the body's immune system, with specific efficiency and high safety. However, only few tumor patients respond to immunotherapy and due to the complex and variable characters of cancer immune escape, the behavior and regulatory mechanisms of immune cells need to be deeply explored from more dimensions. Epigenetic modifications, metabolic modulation, and cell-to-cell communication are key factors in immune cell adaptation and response to the complex tumor microenvironment. They collectively determine the state and function of immune cells through modulating gene expression, changing in energy and nutrient demands. In addition, immune cells engage in complex communication networks with other immune components, which are mediated by exosomes, cytokines, and chemokines, and are pivotal in shaping the tumor progression and therapeutic response. Understanding the interactions and combined effects of such multidimensions mechanisms in immune cell modulation is important for revealing the mechanisms of immunotherapy failure and developing new therapeutic targets and strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sha Qin
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Bin Xie
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Qingyi Wang
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Jingyue Sun
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chaotao Hu
- Regenerative Medicine, Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of OncologyInstitute of Medical SciencesNational Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China. UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yongguang Tao
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- NHC Key Laboratory of CarcinogenesisCancer Research Institute and School of Basic MedicineCentral South universityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Desheng Xiao
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sharma A, Alexander G, Chu JH, Markopoulos A, Maloul G, Ayub MT, Fidler MJ, Okwuosa TM. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Cardiotoxicity: A Comparative Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies and Randomized Controlled Trials. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032620. [PMID: 38761070 PMCID: PMC11179795 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have uncommon associations with cardiotoxicity, yet these cardiotoxic effects are associated with high mortality. An accurate assessment of risk for cardiotoxicity is essential for clinical decision-making, but data from randomized controlled trials often differ from real-world observational studies. METHODS AND RESULTS A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus was performed, including phase II and III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (OSs) reporting myocarditis or pericardial disease, myocardial infarction, or stroke with an immunotherapy. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to pool results between ICIs and other cancer therapy in RCTs and OSs. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was followed. In total, 54 RCTs (N=38 264) and 24 OSs (N=12 561 455) were included. In RCTs, ICI use resulted in higher risk of myocarditis (OR, 3.55 [95% CI, 2.10-5.98]), pericardial disease (OR, 2.73 [95% CI, 1.57-4.77]), and myocardial infarction (OR, 1.83 [95% CI, 1.03-3.25]), compared with non-ICI (placebo or chemotherapy). In OSs, ICI use was not associated with myocarditis, pericardial disease, or myocardial infarction compared with controls; however, combination ICIs demonstrated higher risk of myocarditis compared with single ICI use (OR, 3.07 [95% CI, 1.28-7.39]). Stroke risk was not increased with use of ICIs in RCTs. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated increased risk of ICI myocarditis, pericardial disease, and myocardial infarction in RCTs but not OSs. Results of this study suggest there are differences between ICI cardiotoxicity risk, possibly suggesting differences in diagnoses and management, in clinical trials versus the OSs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akash Sharma
- Department of Medicine University at Buffalo-Catholic Health System Buffalo NY
- Center for Global Health Research Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University Chennai India
| | - Grace Alexander
- Department of Internal Medicine University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Iowa City IA
| | - Jian H Chu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of Oklahoma Oklahoma City OK
| | | | | | - Muhammad Talha Ayub
- Heart and Vascular Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Pittsburgh PA
| | - Mary J Fidler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Stem cell transplant Rush University Medical Center Chicago IL
| | - Tochukwu M Okwuosa
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine Rush University Medical Center Chicago IL
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
O'Leary CL, Pierce N, Patel SP, Naidoo J. Immune-Related Toxicity in NSCLC: Current State-of-the-Art and Emerging Clinical Challenges. J Thorac Oncol 2024; 19:395-408. [PMID: 38012985 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2023.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have become standard-of-care for the treatment of NSCLC; however, their use brings with it the risk of a unique set of inflammatory side effects, termed immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The recognition, diagnosis, and management of irAEs have become essential to clinical practice, with the potential for high-grade toxicities affecting treatment decision-making. This manuscript provides a state-of-the-art review of irAEs as they pertain to patients with NSCLC, by summarizing the common and severe toxicities of the standard immune checkpoint inhibitor regimens and clinical treatment settings relevant to this disease and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L O'Leary
- Department of Oncology, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre, Dublin, Ireland; RCSI University of Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicole Pierce
- Department of Oncology, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre, Dublin, Ireland; RCSI University of Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sandip P Patel
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Jarushka Naidoo
- Department of Oncology, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre, Dublin, Ireland; RCSI University of Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Centre at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wright QG, Sinha D, Wells JW, Frazer IH, Gonzalez Cruz JL, Leggatt GR. Peritumoral administration of immunomodulatory antibodies as a triple combination suppresses skin tumor growth without systemic toxicity. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007960. [PMID: 38296598 PMCID: PMC10831460 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007960] [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] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin cancers, particularly keratinocyte cancers, are the most commonly diagnosed tumors. Although surgery is often effective in early-stage disease, skin tumors are not always easily accessible, can reoccur and have the ability to metastasize. More recently, immunotherapies, including intravenously administered checkpoint inhibitors, have been shown to control some skin cancers, but with off-target toxicities when used in combination. Our study investigated whether peritumoral administration of an antibody combination targeting PD-1, 4-1BB (CD137) and VISTA might control skin tumors and lead to circulating antitumor immunity without off-target toxicity. METHODS The efficacy of combination immunotherapy administered peritumorally or intravenously was tested using transplantable tumor models injected into mouse ears (primary tumors) or subcutaneously in flank skin (secondary tumors). Changes to the tumor microenvironment were tracked using flow cytometry while tumor-specific, CD8 T cells were identified through enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assays. Off-target toxicity of the combination immunotherapy was assessed via serum alanine aminotransferase ELISA and histological analysis of liver sections. RESULTS The data showed that local administration of antibody therapy eliminated syngeneic murine tumors transplanted in the ear skin at a lower dose than required intravenously, and without measured hepatic toxicity. Tumor elimination was dependent on CD8 T cells and was associated with an increased percentage of CD8 T cells expressing granzyme B, KLRG1 and Eomes, and a decreased population of CD4 T cells including CD4+FoxP3+ cells in the treated tumor microenvironment. Importantly, untreated, distal tumors regressed following antibody treatment of a primary tumor, and immune memory prevented growth of subcutaneous flank tumors administered 50 days after regression of a primary tumor. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data suggest that peritumoral immunotherapy for skin tumors offers advantages over conventional intravenous delivery, allowing antibody dose sparing, improved safety and inducing long-term systemic memory. Future clinical trials of immunotherapy for primary skin cancer should focus on peritumoral delivery of combinations of immune checkpoint antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quentin G Wright
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Debottam Sinha
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - James W Wells
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ian H Frazer
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Quagliariello V, Passariello M, Bisceglia I, Paccone A, Inno A, Maurea C, Rapuano Lembo R, Manna L, Iovine M, Canale ML, Scherillo M, Ascierto PA, Gabrielli D, De Lorenzo C, Maurea N. Combinatorial immune checkpoint blockade increases myocardial expression of NLRP-3 and secretion of H-FABP, NT-Pro-BNP, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6: biochemical implications in cardio-immuno-oncology. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1232269. [PMID: 38322766 PMCID: PMC10844473 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1232269] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Immune checkpoint blockade in monotherapy or combinatorial regimens with chemotherapy or radiotherapy have become an integral part of oncology in recent years. Monoclonal antibodies against CTLA-4 or PD-1 or PDL-1 are the most studied ICIs in randomized clinical trials, however, more recently, an anti-LAG3 (Lymphocyte activation gene-3) antibody, Relatlimab, has been approved by FDA in combination with Nivolumab for metastatic melanoma therapy. Moreover, Atezolizumab is actually under study in association with Ipilimumab for therapy of metastatic lung cancer. Myocarditis, vasculitis and endothelitis are rarely observed in these patients on monotherapy, however new combination therapies could expose patients to more adverse cardiovascular events. Methods Human cardiomyocytes co-cultured with human peripheral blood lymphocytes (hPBMCs) were exposed to monotherapy and combinatorial ICIs (PD-L1 and CTLA-4 or PD-1 and LAG-3 blocking agents, at 100 nM) for 48 h. After treatments, cardiac cell lysis and secretion of biomarkers of cardiotoxicity (H-FABP, troponin-T, BNP, NT-Pro-BNP), NLRP3-inflammasome and Interleukin 1 and 6 were determined through colorimetric and enzymatic assays. Mitochondrial functions were studied in cardiomyocyte cell lysates through quantification of intracellular Ca++, ATP content and NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit S1 (Ndufs1) levels. Histone deacetylases type 4 (HDAC-4) protein levels were also determined in cardiomyocyte cell lysates to study potential epigenetic changes induced by immunotherapy regimens. Results Both combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors exert more potent cardiotoxic side effects compared to monotherapies against human cardiac cells co-cultured with human lymphocytes. LDH release from cardiac cells was 43% higher in PD-L1/CTLA-4 blocking agents, and 35.7% higher in PD-1/LAG-3 blocking agents compared to monotherapies. HDAC4 and intracellular Ca++ levels were increased, instead ATP content and Ndufs1 were reduced in myocardial cell lysates (p < 0.001 vs. untreated cells). Troponin-T, BNP, NT-Pro-BNP and H-FABP, were also strongly increased in combination therapy compared to monotherapy regimen. NLRP3 expression, IL-6 and IL-1β levels were also increased by PDL-1/CTLA-4 and PD-1/LAG-3 combined blocking agents compared to untreated cells and monotherapies. Conclusions Data of the present study, although in vitro, indicate that combinatorial immune checkpoint blockade, induce a pro- inflammatory phenotype, thus indicating that these therapies should be closely monitored by the multidisciplinary team consisting of oncologists, cardiologists and immunologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V. Quagliariello
- Division of Cardiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - M. Passariello
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - I. Bisceglia
- Servizi Cardiologici Integrati, Dipartimento Cardio-Toraco-Vascolare, Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - A. Paccone
- Division of Cardiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - A. Inno
- Medical Oncology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - C. Maurea
- Medical Oncology, Ospedale del Mare, Naples, Italy
| | - R. Rapuano Lembo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l., Naples, Italy
| | - L. Manna
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - M. Iovine
- Division of Cardiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - M. L. Canale
- U.O.C. Cardiologia, Ospedale Versilia, Lido di Camaiore (LU), Camaiore, Italy
| | - M. Scherillo
- Cardiologia Interventistica e UTIC, A.O. San Pio, Presidio Ospedaliero Gaetano Rummo, Benevento, Italy
| | - P. A. Ascierto
- Melanoma Cancer Immunotherapy and Innovative Therapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione "G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - D. Gabrielli
- U.O.C. Cardiologia, Dipartimento Cardio-Toraco-Vascolare, Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Roma – Fondazione per il Tuo Cuore – Heart Care Foundation, Firenze, Italy
| | - C. De Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.a.r.l., Naples, Italy
| | - N. Maurea
- Division of Cardiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Güven DC, Thong MS, Arndt V. Survivorship outcomes in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a scoping review. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-023-01507-w. [PMID: 38175366 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01507-w] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a central part of cancer care. However, the survivorship outcomes in patients treated with ICIs are understudied. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review to evaluate the current status of the field and to establish research gaps regarding survivorship outcomes with ICIs in real-life cohorts. METHODS We used the Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase databases to systematically filter published studies with real-life cohorts from January 1, 2010, until October 19, 2022. Studies evaluating at least one survivorship outcome in ICI-treated patients were included. RESULTS A total of 39 papers were included. Quality of life (QoL) (n = 23), toxicity burden (n = 16), and psychosocial issues (n = 9) were the most frequently evaluated survivorship outcomes. Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monotherapy and a response to treatment were associated with better QoL. In addition, the ICIs were associated with grade 3 or higher immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in 10-15% and late/long-term irAEs in 20-30% of the survivors. Regarding psychosocial problems, over 30% of survivors showed evidence of anxiety and depression, and 30-40% of survivors reported neurocognitive impairments. CONCLUSION The survivors treated with ICIs have impairments in most survivorship domains. Further research is needed to gather data on the understudied survivorship outcomes like late and long-term effects, fertility, financial toxicity, and return to work in survivors treated with ICIs. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Available evidence demonstrates that a significant portion of survivors treated with ICIs have a significant toxicity burden, lower QoL than the general population, and a high rate of psychosocial problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Can Güven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, 06100 Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
- Health Sciences University, Elazig City Hospital, Elazig, Turkey.
- Unit of Cancer Survivorship, Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Melissa Sy Thong
- Unit of Cancer Survivorship, Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Volker Arndt
- Unit of Cancer Survivorship, Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kroll MH. Checkpoint inhibitors. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2023; 2023:209-215. [PMID: 38066867 PMCID: PMC10727098 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2023000523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a class of antineoplastic therapies that unleash immune cells to kill malignant cells. These medications commonly cause immune-related adverse effects due to activated adaptive and innate immune cells, autoantibody production, and/or cytokine dysregulation. Hematologic toxicities are rare and of uncertain mechanism, and therefore management is often based on experiences with familiar conditions involving these perturbed immune responses. Management is challenging because one must attend to the hematologic toxicity while simultaneously attending to the malignancy, with the imperative that therapeutic effects be maintained or minimally interrupted when possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Kroll
- Section of Benign Hematology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Curkovic NB, Johnson DB. Updates in toxicities associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:1117-1129. [PMID: 37276071 PMCID: PMC10527235 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2221434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a pillar of treatment for numerous cancers with increasing use in combination with other ICIs and in earlier stages of disease treatment. Although effective, ICI use is accompanied by a milieu of potentially bothersome or even life-threatening toxicities known as immune-related adverse events (irAEs), necessitating careful monitoring and early intervention. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances surrounding toxicity pathophysiology and treatment in the context of relevant organ systems. An emphasis on current treatments by toxicity, as well as updates on steroid-refractory toxicities, chronic toxicities, and biomarkers will be a focus of this update on the current understanding of irAEs. EXPERT OPINION ICI toxicities are a major limitation on the deployment of multi-agent ICI regimens and are thus a major priority to understand, treat, and prevent. Recent developments have led to greater understanding of the pathophysiology of these events, which may lead to improved prevention or mitigation strategies. Further, early studies have also suggested steroid-sparing approaches that may be useful. Ultimately, preventing and managing irAEs will be a key goal toward successful ICI treatment across a broader range of patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas B. Johnson
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen YC, Jaffer M, Zhou L, Moslehi J, Forsyth PA, Fecher LA. A Brain, A Heart, and the Courage: Balancing Benefit and Toxicity of Immunotherapy in Melanoma. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e390594. [PMID: 37229626 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_390594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The overall survival of advanced melanoma has improved dramatically. Immunotherapies, specifically checkpoint inhibitors, have played a large role in this improvement. These agents have also shown benefit in the adjuvant setting, are approved for treatment of resected stage II, III, and IV melanoma, and play an evolving role in the neoadjuvant setting. Although generally well tolerated, immune-related adverse events occur and can be severe. Here we focus on some severe and potentially long term toxicities, including cardiovascular and neurologic toxicities. Our understanding of the acute and long-term toxicities of immune checkpoint inhibitors continues to evolve. Oncologists must continue to balance cancer risk and treatment-related toxicities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Chou Chen
- Section of Cardio-Oncology and Immunology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI), University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA
- Division of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Muhammad Jaffer
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
| | - Lylybell Zhou
- Section of Cardio-Oncology and Immunology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI), University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA
| | - Javid Moslehi
- Section of Cardio-Oncology and Immunology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI), University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA
| | - Peter A Forsyth
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
- Department of Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Leslie A Fecher
- Rogel Cancer Center at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rheumatic Immune-Related Adverse Events due to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors—A 2023 Update. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065643. [PMID: 36982715 PMCID: PMC10051463 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
With the aging of the population, malignancies are becoming common complications in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly in elderly patients. Such malignancies often interfere with RA treatment. Among several therapeutic agents, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) which antagonize immunological brakes on T lymphocytes have emerged as a promising treatment option for a variety of malignancies. In parallel, evidence has accumulated that ICIs are associated with numerous immune-related adverse events (irAEs), such as hypophysitis, myocarditis, pneumonitis, and colitis. Moreover, ICIs not only exacerbate pre-existing autoimmune diseases, but also cause de novo rheumatic disease–like symptoms, such as arthritis, myositis, and vasculitis, which are currently termed rheumatic irAEs. Rheumatic irAEs differ from classical rheumatic diseases in multiple aspects, and treatment should be individualized based on the severity. Close collaboration with oncologists is critical for preventing irreversible organ damage. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the mechanisms and management of rheumatic irAEs with focus on arthritis, myositis, and vasculitis. Based on these findings, potential therapeutic strategies against rheumatic irAEs are discussed.
Collapse
|
14
|
De Meza MM, Blokx WAM, Bonenkamp JJ, Blank CU, Aarts MJB, van den Berkmortel FWPJ, Boers-Sonderen MJ, De Groot JWB, Haanen JBAG, Hospers GAP, Kapiteijn E, Van Not OJ, Piersma D, Van Rijn RS, Stevense-den Boer M, Van der Veldt AAM, Vreugdenhil G, Van den Eertwegh AJM, Suijkerbuijk KPM, Wouters MWJM. Adjuvant BRAF-MEK Inhibitors versus Anti PD-1 Therapy in Stage III Melanoma: A Propensity-Matched Outcome Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020409. [PMID: 36672358 PMCID: PMC9857200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adjuvant BRAF/MEK- and anti-PD-1 inhibition have significantly improved recurrence-free survival (RFS) compared to placebo in resected stage III BRAF-mutant melanoma. However, data beyond the clinical trial setting are limited. This study describes the toxicity and survival of patients treated with adjuvant BRAF/MEK inhibitors and compares outcomes to adjuvant anti-PD-1. For this study, stage III BRAF V600 mutant cutaneous melanoma patients treated with adjuvant BRAF/MEK-inhibition or anti-PD-1 were identified from the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry. BRAF/MEK- and anti-PD-1-treated patients were matched based on propensity scores, and RFS at 12 and 18 months were estimated. Between 1 July 2018 and 31 December 2021, 717 patients were identified. Of these, 114 patients with complete records were treated with BRAF/MEK therapy and 532 with anti-PD-1. Comorbidities (p = 0.04) and geographical region (p < 0.01) were associated with treatment choice. In 45.6% of BRAF/MEK-treated patients, treatment was prematurely discontinued. Grade ≥ 3 toxicity occurred in 11.5% of patients and was the most common cause of early discontinuation (71.1%). At 12 and 18 months, RFS in BRAF/MEK-treated patients was 85% and 70%, compared to 68% and 68% in matched anti-PD-1-treated patients (p = 0.03). In conclusion, comorbidities and geographical region determine the choice of adjuvant treatment in patients with resected stage III BRAF-mutant melanoma. With the currently limited follow-up, BRAF/MEK-treated patients have better RFS at 12 months than matched anti-PD-1-treated patients, but this difference is no longer observed at 18 months. Therefore, longer follow-up data are necessary to estimate long-term effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M. De Meza
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Willeke A. M. Blokx
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes J. Bonenkamp
- Department of Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian U. Blank
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maureen J. B. Aarts
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW-School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marye J. Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - John B. A. G. Haanen
- Division of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Geke A. P. Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Olivier J. Van Not
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Koningsplein 1, 7512KZ Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn S. Van Rijn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Center Leeuwarden, Henri Dunantweg 2, 8934AD Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Astrid A. M. Van der Veldt
- Departments of Medical Oncology and Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, ‘s-Gravendijkwal 230, 3015CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Center, De Run 4600, 5504DB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Alfonsus J. M. Van den Eertwegh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karijn P. M. Suijkerbuijk
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michel W. J. M. Wouters
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333AA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|