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Zhu Y, Zhou L, Mo L, Hong C, Pan L, Lin J, Qi Y, Tan S, Qian M, Hu T, Zhao Y, Qiu H, Lin P, Ma X, Yang Q. Plasmodium yoelii Infection Enhances the Expansion of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells via JAK/STAT3 Pathway. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 213:170-186. [PMID: 38819229 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), the negative immune regulators, have been demonstrated to be involved in immune responses to a variety of pathological conditions, such as tumors, chronic inflammation, and infectious diseases. However, the roles and mechanisms underlying the expansion of MDSCs in malaria remain unclear. In this study, the phenotypic and functional characteristics of splenic MDSCs during Plasmodium yoelii NSM infection are described. Furthermore, we provide compelling evidence that the sera from P. yoelii-infected C57BL/6 mice containing excess IL-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor promote the accumulation of MDSCs by inducing Bcl2 expression. Serum-induced MDSCs exert more potent suppressive effects on T cell responses than control MDSCs within both in vivo P. yoelii infection and in vitro serum-treated bone marrow cells experiments. Serum treatment increases the MDSC inhibitory effect, which is dependent on Arg1 expression. Moreover, mechanistic studies reveal that the serum effects are mediated by JAK/STAT3 signaling. By inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation with the JAK inhibitor JSI-124, effects of serum on MDSCs are almost eliminated. In vivo depletion of MDSCs with anti-Gr-1 or 5-fluorouracil significantly reduces the parasitemia and promotes Th1 immune response in P. yoelii-infected C57BL/6 mice by upregulating IFN-γ expression. In summary, this study indicates that P. yoelii infection facilitates the accumulation and function of MDSCs by upregulating the expression of Bcl2 and Arg1 via JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Manipulating the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway or depleting MDSCs could be promising therapeutic interventions to treat malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiang Zhu
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lengshan Mo
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cansheng Hong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingxia Pan
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanwei Qi
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Simin Tan
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manhongtian Qian
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tengfei Hu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huaina Qiu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peibin Lin
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
| | - Xiancai Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, China
| | - Quan Yang
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Second Affiliated Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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2
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Li M, Xie Y, Zhang J, Zhou X, Gao L, He M, Liu X, Miao X, Liu Y, Cao R, Jia Y, Zeng Z, Liu L. Intratumoral Injection of mRNA Encoding Survivin in Combination with STAT3 Inhibitor Stattic Enhances Antitumor Effects. Cancer Lett 2024:217111. [PMID: 38972347 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Intratumoral delivery of mRNA encoding immunostimulatory molecules can initiate a robust, global antitumor response with little side effects by enhancing local antigen presentation in the tumor and the tumor draining lymph node. Neoantigen-based mRNA nanovaccine can inhibit melanoma growth in mice by intratumoral injection. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) suppress antitumor immune responses by secreting immunosuppressive agents, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Suppression of STAT3 activity by stattic may reduce MDSC-mediated immunosuppression in the TME and promote the antitumor immune responses. In this study, in vitro transcribed mRNA encoding tumor antigen survivin was prepared and injected intratumorally in BALB/c mice bearing subcutaneous colon cancer tumors. In vivo studies demonstrated that intratumoral survivin mRNA therapy could induce antitumor T cell response and inhibit tumor growth of colon cancer. Depletion of CD8+ T cells could significantly inhibit survivin mRNA-induced antitumor effects. RT-qPCR and ELISA analysis indicated that survivin mRNA treatment led to increased expression of receptor activator nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). In vitro experiment showed that MDSCs could be induced from mouse bone marrow cells by RANKL and RANKL-induced MDSCs could produce high level of ROS. STAT3 inhibitor stattic suppressed activation of STAT3 and NF-κB signals, thereby inhibiting expansion of RANKL-induced MDSCs. Combination therapy of survivin mRNA and stattic could significantly enhance antitumor T cell response, improve long-term survival and reduce immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment compared to each monotherapy. In addition, combined therapy resulted in a significantly reduced level of tumor cell proliferation and an obviously increased level of tumor cell apoptosis in CT26 colon cancer-bearing mice, which could be conducive to inhibit the tumor growth and lead to immune responses to released tumor-associated antigens. These studies explored intratumoral mRNA therapy and mRNA-based combined therapy to treat colon cancer and provide a new idea for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Ying Xie
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Jincheng Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xue Zhou
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Mengmeng He
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xianmei Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xinyi Miao
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Rong Cao
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yi Jia
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Biological and Medical Engineering/Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province/Engineering Research Center of Health Medicine Biotechnology of Institution of Higher Education of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
| | - Zhu Zeng
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Biological and Medical Engineering/Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province/Engineering Research Center of Health Medicine Biotechnology of Institution of Higher Education of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
| | - Lina Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering (School of Health Medicine Modern Industry)/School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Biological and Medical Engineering/Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province/Engineering Research Center of Health Medicine Biotechnology of Institution of Higher Education of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
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3
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Daneshmandi S, Yan Q, Choi JE, Katsuta E, MacDonald CR, Goruganthu M, Roberts N, Repasky EA, Singh PK, Attwood K, Wang J, Landesman Y, McCarthy PL, Mohammadpour H. Exportin 1 governs the immunosuppressive functions of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in tumors through ERK1/2 nuclear export. Cell Mol Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41423-024-01187-1. [PMID: 38902348 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01187-1] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a main driver of immunosuppression in tumors. Understanding the mechanisms that determine the development and immunosuppressive function of these cells could provide new therapeutic targets to improve antitumor immunity. Here, using preclinical murine models, we discovered that exportin 1 (XPO1) expression is upregulated in tumor MDSCs and that this upregulation is induced by IL-6-induced STAT3 activation during MDSC differentiation. XPO1 blockade transforms MDSCs into T-cell-activating neutrophil-like cells, enhancing the antitumor immune response and restraining tumor growth. Mechanistically, XPO1 inhibition leads to the nuclear entrapment of ERK1/2, resulting in the prevention of ERK1/2 phosphorylation following the IL-6-mediated activation of the MAPK signaling pathway. Similarly, XPO1 blockade in human MDSCs induces the formation of neutrophil-like cells with immunostimulatory functions. Therefore, our findings revealed a critical role for XPO1 in MDSC differentiation and suppressive functions; exploiting these new discoveries revealed new targets for reprogramming immunosuppressive MDSCs to improve cancer therapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Daneshmandi
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Qi Yan
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jee Eun Choi
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Eriko Katsuta
- Department of Oncology, Yokohama City University, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Cameron R MacDonald
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mounika Goruganthu
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Nathan Roberts
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Repasky
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Prashant K Singh
- Department of Cancer Genetics & Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Kristopher Attwood
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Philip L McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Hemn Mohammadpour
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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4
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Sinkarevs S, Strumfs B, Volkova S, Strumfa I. Tumour Microenvironment: The General Principles of Pathogenesis and Implications in Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma. Cells 2024; 13:1057. [PMID: 38920685 PMCID: PMC11201569 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121057] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma worldwide, constituting around 30-40% of all cases. Almost 60% of patients develop relapse of refractory DLBCL. Among the reasons for the therapy failure, tumour microenvironment (TME) components could be involved, including tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumour-associated neutrophils (TANs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and different subtypes of cytotoxic CD8+ cells and T regulatory cells, which show complex interactions with tumour cells. Understanding of the TME can provide new therapeutic options for patients with DLBCL and improve their prognosis and overall survival. This review provides essentials of the latest understanding of tumour microenvironment elements and discusses their role in tumour progression and immune suppression mechanisms which result in poor prognosis for patients with DLBCL. In addition, we point out important markers for the diagnostic purposes and highlight novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ilze Strumfa
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
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5
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Ganesh S, Kim MJ, Lee J, Feng X, Ule K, Mahan A, Krishnan HS, Wang Z, Anzahaee MY, Singhal G, Korboukh I, Lockridge JA, Sanftner L, Rijnbrand R, Abrams M, Brown BD. RNAi mediated silencing of STAT3/PD-L1 in tumor-associated immune cells induces robust anti-tumor effects in immunotherapy resistant tumors. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1895-1916. [PMID: 38549376 PMCID: PMC11184339 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.035] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors are often associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), rendering most of them resistant to standard-of-care immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a ubiquitously expressed transcription factor, has well-defined immunosuppressive functions in several leukocyte populations within the TME. Since the STAT3 protein has been challenging to target using conventional pharmaceutical modalities, we investigated the feasibility of applying systemically delivered RNA interference (RNAi) agents to silence its mRNA directly in tumor-associated immune cells. In preclinical rodent tumor models, chemically stabilized acylated small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) selectively silenced Stat3 mRNA in multiple relevant cell types, reduced STAT3 protein levels, and increased cytotoxic T cell infiltration. In a murine model of CPI-resistant pancreatic cancer, RNAi-mediated Stat3 silencing resulted in tumor growth inhibition, which was further enhanced in combination with CPIs. To further exemplify the utility of RNAi for cancer immunotherapy, this technology was used to silence Cd274, the gene encoding the immune checkpoint protein programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Interestingly, silencing of Cd274 was effective in tumor models that are resistant to PD-L1 antibody therapy. These data represent the first demonstration of systemic delivery of RNAi agents to the TME and suggest applying this technology for immuno-oncology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanthi Ganesh
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA.
| | - Min Ju Kim
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Jenny Lee
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Xudong Feng
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Krisjanis Ule
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Amy Mahan
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | | | - Zhe Wang
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | | | - Garima Singhal
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Ilia Korboukh
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | | | - Laura Sanftner
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Rene Rijnbrand
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Marc Abrams
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Bob D Brown
- Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a Novo Nordisk Company, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
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6
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Lin H, Liu C, Hu A, Zhang D, Yang H, Mao Y. Understanding the immunosuppressive microenvironment of glioma: mechanistic insights and clinical perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:31. [PMID: 38720342 PMCID: PMC11077829 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the predominant and primary malignant intracranial tumor, poses a formidable challenge due to its immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby confounding conventional therapeutic interventions. Despite the established treatment regimen comprising surgical intervention, radiotherapy, temozolomide administration, and the exploration of emerging modalities such as immunotherapy and integration of medicine and engineering technology therapy, the efficacy of these approaches remains constrained, resulting in suboptimal prognostic outcomes. In recent years, intensive scrutiny of the inhibitory and immunosuppressive milieu within GBM has underscored the significance of cellular constituents of the GBM microenvironment and their interactions with malignant cells and neurons. Novel immune and targeted therapy strategies have emerged, offering promising avenues for advancing GBM treatment. One pivotal mechanism orchestrating immunosuppression in GBM involves the aggregation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), glioma-associated macrophage/microglia (GAM), and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Among these, MDSCs, though constituting a minority (4-8%) of CD45+ cells in GBM, play a central component in fostering immune evasion and propelling tumor progression, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. MDSCs deploy intricate immunosuppressive mechanisms that adapt to the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). Understanding the interplay between GBM and MDSCs provides a compelling basis for therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to elucidate the immune regulatory mechanisms inherent in the GBM microenvironment, explore existing therapeutic targets, and consolidate recent insights into MDSC induction and their contribution to GBM immunosuppression. Additionally, the review comprehensively surveys ongoing clinical trials and potential treatment strategies, envisioning a future where targeting MDSCs could reshape the immune landscape of GBM. Through the synergistic integration of immunotherapy with other therapeutic modalities, this approach can establish a multidisciplinary, multi-target paradigm, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life in patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaxian Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Duanwu Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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Daneshmandi S, Choi JE, Yan Q, MacDonald CR, Pandey M, Goruganthu M, Roberts N, Singh PK, Higashi RM, Lane AN, Fan TWM, Wang J, McCarthy PL, Repasky EA, Mohammadpour H. Myeloid-derived suppressor cell mitochondrial fitness governs chemotherapeutic efficacy in hematologic malignancies. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2803. [PMID: 38555305 PMCID: PMC10981707 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47096-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are key regulators of immune responses and correlate with poor outcomes in hematologic malignancies. Here, we identify that MDSC mitochondrial fitness controls the efficacy of doxorubicin chemotherapy in a preclinical lymphoma model. Mechanistically, we show that triggering STAT3 signaling via β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) activation leads to improved MDSC function through metabolic reprograming, marked by sustained mitochondrial respiration and higher ATP generation which reduces AMPK signaling, altering energy metabolism. Furthermore, induced STAT3 signaling in MDSCs enhances glutamine consumption via the TCA cycle. Metabolized glutamine generates itaconate which downregulates mitochondrial reactive oxygen species via regulation of Nrf2 and the oxidative stress response, enhancing MDSC survival. Using β2-AR blockade, we target the STAT3 pathway and ATP and itaconate metabolism, disrupting ATP generation by the electron transport chain and decreasing itaconate generation causing diminished MDSC mitochondrial fitness. This disruption increases the response to doxorubicin and could be tested clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Daneshmandi
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jee Eun Choi
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qi Yan
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cameron R MacDonald
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Manu Pandey
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mounika Goruganthu
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nathan Roberts
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Prashant K Singh
- Department of Cancer Genetics & Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard M Higashi
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Markey Cancer Center, Center for Environmental and Systems Biochemistry (CESB), Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Andrew N Lane
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Markey Cancer Center, Center for Environmental and Systems Biochemistry (CESB), Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Teresa W-M Fan
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Markey Cancer Center, Center for Environmental and Systems Biochemistry (CESB), Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip L McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Repasky
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hemn Mohammadpour
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, USA.
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8
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Hall J, Zhang Z, Bhattacharya S, Wang D, Alcantara M, Liang Y, Swiderski P, Forman S, Kwak L, Vaidehi N, Kortylewski M. Oligo-PROTAC strategy for cell-selective and targeted degradation of activated STAT3. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102137. [PMID: 38384444 PMCID: PMC10879796 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) allow targeting undruggable transcription factors, such as STAT3, but their limited potency and lack of delivery methods hampered translation. To overcome these challenges, we conjugated a STAT3-specific decoy to thalidomide, a ligand to cereblon in E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, to generate a proteolysis-targeting chimera (STAT3DPROTAC). STAT3DPROTAC downregulated STAT3 in target cells, but not STAT1 or STAT5. Computational modeling of the STAT3DPROTAC ternary complex predicted two surface lysines, K601 and K626, in STAT3 as potential ubiquitination sites. Accordingly, K601/K626 point mutations in STAT3, as well as proteasome inhibition or cereblon deletion, alleviated STAT3DPROTAC effect. Next, we conjugated STAT3DPROTAC to a CpG oligonucleotide targeting Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) to generate myeloid/B cell-selective C-STAT3DPROTAC. Naked C-STAT3DPROTAC was spontaneously internalized by TLR9+ myeloid cells, B cells, and human and mouse lymphoma cells but not by T cells. C-STAT3DPROTAC effectively decreased STAT3 protein levels and also STAT3-regulated target genes critical for lymphoma cell proliferation and/or survival (BCL2L1, CCND2, and MYC). Finally, local C-STAT3DPROTAC administration to human Ly3 lymphoma-bearing mice triggered tumor regression, while control C-STAT3D and C-SCR treatments had limited effects. Our results underscore the feasibility of using a PROTAC strategy for cell-selective, decoy oligonucleotide-based STAT3 targeting of and potentially other tumorigenic transcription factors for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Hall
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Zhuoran Zhang
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Supriyo Bhattacharya
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Dongfang Wang
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Marice Alcantara
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yong Liang
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Core Facility, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Piotr Swiderski
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Core Facility, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephen Forman
- Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Larry Kwak
- Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Nagarajan Vaidehi
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Marcin Kortylewski
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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9
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Wang C, Zheng X, Zhang J, Jiang X, Wang J, Li Y, Li X, Shen G, Peng J, Zheng P, Gu Y, Chen J, Lin M, Deng C, Gao H, Lu Z, Zhao Y, Luo M. CD300ld on neutrophils is required for tumour-driven immune suppression. Nature 2023; 621:830-839. [PMID: 37674079 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06511-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The immune-suppressive tumour microenvironment represents a major obstacle to effective immunotherapy1,2. Pathologically activated neutrophils, also known as polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs), are a critical component of the tumour microenvironment and have crucial roles in tumour progression and therapy resistance2-4. Identification of the key molecules on PMN-MDSCs is required to selectively target these cells for tumour treatment. Here, we performed an in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 screen in a tumour mouse model and identified CD300ld as a top candidate of tumour-favouring receptors. CD300ld is specifically expressed in normal neutrophils and is upregulated in PMN-MDSCs upon tumour-bearing. CD300ld knockout inhibits the development of multiple tumour types in a PMN-MDSC-dependent manner. CD300ld is required for the recruitment of PMN-MDSCs into tumours and their function to suppress T cell activation. CD300ld acts via the STAT3-S100A8/A9 axis, and knockout of Cd300ld reverses the tumour immune-suppressive microenvironment. CD300ld is upregulated in human cancers and shows an unfavourable correlation with patient survival. Blocking CD300ld activity inhibits tumour development and has synergistic effects with anti-PD1. Our study identifies CD300ld as a critical immune suppressor present on PMN-MDSCs, being required for tumour immune resistance and providing a potential target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoxiong Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xichen Zheng
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinlan Zhang
- The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyi Jiang
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital of Fudan University, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuwei Li
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaonan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghui Shen
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayin Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Peixuan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunqing Gu
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moubin Lin
- Center for Clinical Research and Translational Medicine, Yangpu Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Changwen Deng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Gao
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital of Fudan University, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhigang Lu
- The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Min Luo
- Institute of Pediatrics of Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, the International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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10
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Hall J, Zhang Z, Wang D, Bhattacharya S, Alcantara M, Liang Y, Swiderski P, Forman S, Kwak L, Vaidehi N, Kortylewski M. Oligo-PROTAC strategy for cell-selective and targeted degradation of activated STAT3. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.01.551552. [PMID: 37577590 PMCID: PMC10418257 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.01.551552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Decoy-oligodeoxynucleotides (D-ODNs) can target undruggable transcription factors, such as STAT3. However, challenges in D-ODN delivery and potency hampered their translation. To overcome these limitations, we conjugated STAT3-specific D-ODN to thalidomide (Tha), a known ligand to cereblon (CRBN, a component of E3 ubiquitin ligase) to generate a proteolysis-targeting chimera (STAT3D PROTAC ). STAT3D PROTAC downregulated STAT3, but not STAT1 or STAT5, in target cells. Computational modeling of the STAT3D PROTAC ternary complex predicted two surface lysines on STAT3, K601 and K626 as potential ubiquitination sites for the PROTAC bound E3 ligase. Accordingly, K601/K626 point mutations in STAT3, as well as proteasome inhibitors, and CRBN deletion alleviated STAT3D PROTAC effect. Next, we conjugated STAT3D PROTAC to a CpG ligand targeting Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) to generate myeloid/B-cell-selective C-STAT3D PROTAC conjugate. Naked C-STAT3D PROTAC was spontaneously internalized by TLR9 + myeloid cells, B cells as well as human Ly18 and mouse A20 lymphoma cells, but not by T cells. C-STAT3D PROTAC decreased STAT3 levels to 50% at 250 nM and over 85% at 2 µM dosing in myeloid cells. We also observed significantly improved downregulation of STAT3 target genes involved in lymphoma cell proliferation and/or survival ( BCL2L1, CCND2, MYC ). Finally, we assessed the antitumor efficacy of C-STAT3D PROTAC compared to C-STAT3D or scrambled control (C-SCR) against human lymphoma xenotransplants. Local C-STAT3D PROTAC administration triggered lymphoma regression while control treatments had limited effects. Our results underscore feasibility of using PROTAC strategy for cell-selective, decoy oligonucleotide-based targeting of STAT3 and potentially other tumorigenic transcription factors for cancer therapy.
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11
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Iske J, Cao Y, Roesel MJ, Shen Z, Nian Y. Metabolic reprogramming of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the context of organ transplantation. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:789-797. [PMID: 37204374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.04.010] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are naturally occurring leukocytes that develop from immature myeloid cells under inflammatory conditions that were discovered initially in the context of tumor immunity. Because of their robust immune inhibitory activities, there has been growing interest in MDSC-based cellular therapies for transplant tolerance induction. Indeed, various pre-clinical studies have introduced in vivo expansion or adoptive transfer of MDSC as a promising therapeutic strategy leading to a profound extension of allograft survival due to suppression of alloreactive T cells. However, several limitations of cellular therapies using MDSCs remain to be addressed, including their heterogeneous nature and limited expansion capacity. Metabolic reprogramming plays a crucial role for differentiation, proliferation and effector function of immune cells. Notably, recent reports have focused on a distinct metabolic phenotype underlying the differentiation of MDSCs in an inflammatory microenvironment representing a regulatory target. A better understanding of the metabolic reprogramming of MDSCs may thus provide novel insights for MDSC-based treatment approaches in transplantation. In this review, we will summarize recent, interdisciplinary findings on MDSCs metabolic reprogramming, dissect the underlying molecular mechanisms and discuss the relevance for potential treatment approaches in solid-organ transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper Iske
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Berlin, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yu Cao
- Research Institute of Transplant Medicine, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Maximilian J Roesel
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Berlin, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zhongyang Shen
- Research Institute of Transplant Medicine, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yeqi Nian
- Research Institute of Transplant Medicine, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
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12
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Ren R, Xiong C, Ma R, Wang Y, Yue T, Yu J, Shao B. The recent progress of myeloid-derived suppressor cell and its targeted therapies in cancers. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e323. [PMID: 37547175 PMCID: PMC10397484 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.323] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are an immature group of myeloid-derived cells generated from myeloid cell precursors in the bone marrow. MDSCs appear almost exclusively in pathological conditions, such as tumor progression and various inflammatory diseases. The leading function of MDSCs is their immunosuppressive ability, which plays a crucial role in tumor progression and metastasis through their immunosuppressive effects. Since MDSCs have specific molecular features, and only a tiny amount exists in physiological conditions, MDSC-targeted therapy has become a promising research direction for tumor treatment with minimal side effects. In this review, we briefly introduce the classification, generation and maturation process, and features of MDSCs, and detail their functions under various circumstances. The present review specifically demonstrates the environmental specificity of MDSCs, highlighting the differences between MDSCs from cancer and healthy individuals, as well as tumor-infiltrating MDSCs and circulating MDSCs. Then, we further describe recent advances in MDSC-targeted therapies. The existing and potential targeted drugs are divided into three categories, monoclonal antibodies, small-molecular inhibitors, and peptides. Their targeting mechanisms and characteristics have been summarized respectively. We believe that a comprehensive in-depth understanding of MDSC-targeted therapy could provide more possibilities for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesDepartment of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Chenyi Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Runyu Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yixuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Tianyang Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Jiayun Yu
- Department of RadiotherapyCancer Center and State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Bin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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13
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Hieber C, Grabbe S, Bros M. Counteracting Immunosenescence-Which Therapeutic Strategies Are Promising? Biomolecules 2023; 13:1085. [PMID: 37509121 PMCID: PMC10377144 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging attenuates the overall responsiveness of the immune system to eradicate pathogens. The increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by innate immune cells under basal conditions, termed inflammaging, contributes to impaired innate immune responsiveness towards pathogen-mediated stimulation and limits antigen-presenting activity. Adaptive immune responses are attenuated as well due to lowered numbers of naïve lymphocytes and their impaired responsiveness towards antigen-specific stimulation. Additionally, the numbers of immunoregulatory cell types, comprising regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, that inhibit the activity of innate and adaptive immune cells are elevated. This review aims to summarize our knowledge on the cellular and molecular causes of immunosenescence while also taking into account senescence effects that constitute immune evasion mechanisms in the case of chronic viral infections and cancer. For tumor therapy numerous nanoformulated drugs have been developed to overcome poor solubility of compounds and to enable cell-directed delivery in order to restore immune functions, e.g., by addressing dysregulated signaling pathways. Further, nanovaccines which efficiently address antigen-presenting cells to mount sustained anti-tumor immune responses have been clinically evaluated. Further, senolytics that selectively deplete senescent cells are being tested in a number of clinical trials. Here we discuss the potential use of such drugs to improve anti-aging therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Hieber
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Ackermannweg 4, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Grabbe
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Ackermannweg 4, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Bros
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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14
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Tunali G, Yanik H, Ozturk SC, Demirkol-Canli S, Efthymiou G, Yilmaz KB, Van Obberghen-Schilling E, Esendagli G. A positive feedback loop driven by fibronectin and IL-1β sustains the inflammatory microenvironment in breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:27. [PMID: 36922898 PMCID: PMC10015813 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01629-0] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory alterations of the extracellular matrix shape the tumor microenvironment and promote all stages of carcinogenesis. This study aims to determine the impact of cellular fibronectin on inflammatory facets of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in breast cancer. Cellular fibronectin (FN) harboring the alternatively spliced extra domain A (FN-EDA) was determined to be a matrix component produced by the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. High levels of FN-EDA correlated with poor survival in breast cancer patients. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β enhanced the expression of cellular fibronectin including FN-EDA. TAMs were frequently observed in the tumor areas rich in FN-EDA. Conditioned media from TNBC cells induced the differentiation of CD206+CD163+ macrophages and stimulated the STAT3 pathway, ex vivo. In the macrophages, the STAT3 pathway enhanced FN-EDA-induced IL-1β secretion and NF-κB signaling. In conclusion, our data indicate a self-reinforcing mechanism sustained by FN-EDA and IL-1β through NF-κB and STAT3 signaling in TAMs which fosters an inflammatory environment in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurcan Tunali
- Department of Basic Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey. .,Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Hamdullah Yanik
- Department of Basic Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Can Ozturk
- Research and Application Center for Animal Experiments, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Secil Demirkol-Canli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Division of Tumor Pathology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Kerim Bora Yilmaz
- Department of General Surgery, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Gunes Esendagli
- Department of Basic Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey.
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15
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Goswami S, Anandhan S, Raychaudhuri D, Sharma P. Myeloid cell-targeted therapies for solid tumours. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:106-120. [PMID: 35697799 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00737-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid cells are the most abundant immune components of the tumour microenvironment, where they have a variety of functions, ranging from immunosuppressive to immunostimulatory roles. The myeloid cell compartment comprises many different cell types, including monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and granulocytes, that are highly plastic and can differentiate into diverse phenotypes depending on cues received from their microenvironment. In the past few decades, we have gained a better appreciation of the complexity of myeloid cell subsets and how they are involved in tumour progression and resistance to cancer therapies, including immunotherapy. In this Review, we highlight key features of monocyte and macrophage biology that are being explored as potential targets for cancer therapies and what aspects of myeloid cells need a deeper understanding to identify rational combinatorial strategies to improve clinical outcomes of patients with cancer. We discuss therapies that aim to modulate the functional activities of myeloid cell populations, impacting their recruitment, survival and activity in the tumour microenvironment, acting at the level of cell surface receptors, signalling pathways, epigenetic machinery and metabolic regulators. We also describe advances in the development of genetically engineered myeloid cells for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangeeta Goswami
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Swetha Anandhan
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,MD Anderson UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Deblina Raychaudhuri
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Padmanee Sharma
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,The Immunotherapy Platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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16
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Andrés CMC, Pérez de la Lastra JM, Juan CA, Plou FJ, Pérez-Lebeña E. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Cancer and COVID-19 as Associated with Oxidative Stress. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:218. [PMID: 36851096 PMCID: PMC9966263 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020218] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells MDSCs are a heterogeneous population of cells that expand beyond their physiological regulation during pathologies such as cancer, inflammation, bacterial, and viral infections. Their key feature is their remarkable ability to suppress T cell and natural killer NK cell responses. Certain risk factors for severe COVID-19 disease, such as obesity and diabetes, are associated with oxidative stress. The resulting inflammation and oxidative stress can negatively impact the host. Similarly, cancer cells exhibit a sustained increase in intrinsic ROS generation that maintains the oncogenic phenotype and drives tumor progression. By disrupting endoplasmic reticulum calcium channels, intracellular ROS accumulation can disrupt protein folding and ultimately lead to proteostasis failure. In cancer and COVID-19, MDSCs consist of the same two subtypes (PMN-MSDC and M-MDSC). While the main role of polymorphonuclear MDSCs is to dampen the response of T cells and NK killer cells, they also produce reactive oxygen species ROS and reactive nitrogen species RNS. We here review the origin of MDSCs, their expansion mechanisms, and their suppressive functions in the context of cancer and COVID-19 associated with the presence of superoxide anion •O2- and reactive oxygen species ROS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Pérez de la Lastra
- Cinquima Institute and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Valladolid University, Paseo de Belén 7, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Celia Andrés Juan
- Institute of Natural Products and Agrobiology, CSIC-Spanish Research Council, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 3, 38206 La Laguna, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Plou
- Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemistry, CSIC-Spanish Research Council, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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17
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Jiang W, Li X, Xiang C, Zhou W. Neutrophils in pancreatic cancer: Potential therapeutic targets. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1025805. [PMID: 36324574 PMCID: PMC9618950 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1025805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a digestive system malignancy and poses a high mortality worldwide. Traditionally, neutrophils have been thought to play a role in acute inflammation. In contrast, their importance during tumor diseases has been less well studied. Generally, neutrophils are recruited into the tumor microenvironment and exert inflammation and tumor-promoting effects. As an essential part of the tumor microenvironment, neutrophils play diverse roles in pancreatic cancer, such as angiogenesis, progression, metastasis and immunosuppression. Additionally, neutrophils can be a new potential therapeutic target in cancer. Inhibitors of cytokines, chemokines and neutrophil extracellular traps can exert antitumor effects. In this review, we describe the role of neutrophils in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer, discuss their potential as therapeutic targets, and aim to provide ideas for improving the prognosis of patients with this malignant tumor disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkai Jiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xin Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Caifei Xiang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wence Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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18
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Casas G, Perche F, Midoux P, Pichon C, Malinge JM. DNA minicircles as novel STAT3 decoy oligodeoxynucleotides endowed with anticancer activity in triple-negative breast cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:162-175. [PMID: 35847174 PMCID: PMC9263874 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Decoy technology is a versatile and specific DNA oligonucleotide-based targeting strategy of pathogenic transcription factors (TFs). Chemical modifications of linear decoy oligonucleotides have been made to decrease nuclease sensitivity because of the presence of free ends but at the cost of new limitations that affect their use as therapeutic drugs. Although a short DNA minicircle is a phosphodiester nucleic acid without free ends, its potential therapeutic activity as a TF decoy oligonucleotide has not yet been investigated. Here we describe the in vitro and in vivo activity of formulated 95-bp minicircles bearing one or several STAT3 binding sequences in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Minicircles bearing one STAT3 binding site interacted specifically with the active form of STAT3 and inhibited proliferation, induced apoptosis, slowed down cell cycle progression, and decreased STAT3 target gene expression in human and murine TNBC cells. Intratumoral injection of STAT3 minicircles inhibited tumor growth and metastasis in a murine model of TNBC. Increasing the number of STAT3 binding sites resulted in improved anticancer activity, opening the way for a TF multitargeting strategy. Our data provide the first demonstration of minicircles acting as STAT3 decoys and show that they could be an effective therapeutic drug for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Casas
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Affiliated with the University of Orléans and INSERM, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
| | - Federico Perche
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Affiliated with the University of Orléans and INSERM, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
| | - Patrick Midoux
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Affiliated with the University of Orléans and INSERM, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Affiliated with the University of Orléans and INSERM, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Corresponding author Chantal Pichon, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans, Cedex 02, France.
| | - Jean-Marc Malinge
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Affiliated with the University of Orléans and INSERM, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Corresponding author Jean-Marc Malinge, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Rue Charles Sadron, CS-80054, 45071 Orléans, Cedex 02, France.
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19
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Wang Y, Johnson KCC, Gatti-Mays ME, Li Z. Emerging strategies in targeting tumor-resident myeloid cells for cancer immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:118. [PMID: 36031601 PMCID: PMC9420297 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01335-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed cell death protein 1, programmed death-ligand 1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 provide deep and durable treatment responses which have revolutionized oncology. However, despite over 40% of cancer patients being eligible to receive immunotherapy, only 12% of patients gain benefit. A key to understanding what differentiates treatment response from non-response is better defining the role of the innate immune system in anti-tumor immunity and immune tolerance. Teleologically, myeloid cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, monocytes, and neutrophils, initiate a response to invading pathogens and tissue repair after pathogen clearance is successfully accomplished. However, in the tumor microenvironment (TME), these innate cells are hijacked by the tumor cells and are imprinted to furthering tumor propagation and dissemination. Major advancements have been made in the field, especially related to the heterogeneity of myeloid cells and their function in the TME at the single cell level, a topic that has been highlighted by several recent international meetings including the 2021 China Cancer Immunotherapy workshop in Beijing. Here, we provide an up-to-date summary of the mechanisms by which major myeloid cells in the TME facilitate immunosuppression, enable tumor growth, foster tumor plasticity, and confer therapeutic resistance. We discuss ongoing strategies targeting the myeloid compartment in the preclinical and clinical settings which include: (1) altering myeloid cell composition within the TME; (2) functional blockade of immune-suppressive myeloid cells; (3) reprogramming myeloid cells to acquire pro-inflammatory properties; (4) modulating myeloid cells via cytokines; (5) myeloid cell therapies; and (6) emerging targets such as Siglec-15, TREM2, MARCO, LILRB2, and CLEVER-1. There is a significant promise that myeloid cell-based immunotherapy will help advance immuno-oncology in years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Division of Medical Oncology, Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Margaret E Gatti-Mays
- Division of Medical Oncology, Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Zihai Li
- Division of Medical Oncology, Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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20
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Cella E, Zullo L, Marconi S, Rossi G, Coco S, Dellepiane C, Alama A, Rozeboom L, Bennicelli E, Parisi F, Sacco G, Barletta G, Zinoli L, Tagliamento M, Pronzato P, Genova C. Immunotherapy-chemotherapy combinations for non-small cell lung cancer: current trends and future perspectives. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:1259-1273. [PMID: 35994596 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2116273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, immunotherapy has become a pillar in the treatment of advanced, non-oncogene-addicted non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression is currently the only factor used to predict response to immunotherapy in clinical practice. Specifically, single agent pembrolizumab as first line therapy is approved for tumors with high expression of PD-L1 (≥50%) while immunotherapy and chemotherapy are approved for any PD-L1. However, combinations of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and other agents may confer higher benefit than immunotherapy alone in some circumstances. AREAS COVERED We reviewed the available data regarding the combined use of ICIs and chemotherapy in patients with advanced, treatment-naïve NSCLC. In light of the benefit demonstrated in advanced disease, these combinations have been subsequently tested in other settings. We collected the most relevant findings regarding efficacy and safety of chemo-immunotherapy combinations in early and locally advanced NSCLC. EXPERT OPINION Immune-chemotherapy combinations demonstrated benefit in the advanced setting, and this strategy in now being applied in the early and local advanced settings. A description of clinical and biological predictors of response is required in order to identify patients who may benefit the most from combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Cella
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Lodovica Zullo
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Marconi
- UO Tumori Polmonari; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rossi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Coco
- UO Tumori Polmonari; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Dellepiane
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Angela Alama
- UO Tumori Polmonari; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Leslie Rozeboom
- Department of Pathology, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Elisa Bennicelli
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Parisi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sacco
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Barletta
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Linda Zinoli
- UO Clinica di Oncologia Medica; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Tagliamento
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna (DiMI); Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Pronzato
- UO Oncologia Medica 2; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Genova
- UO Clinica di Oncologia Medica; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Interna (DiMI); Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
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21
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Cancer Stem Cells in Tumor Microenvironment of Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach, Colon, and Rectum. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163948. [PMID: 36010940 PMCID: PMC9405851 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gastrointestinal cancers have a high mortality rate worldwide, and the progression of the disease is related to cancer stem cells. Until now, its relationship with the microenvironment has been poorly understood. We describe the molecules and different pathways activated during this interaction and the new targeting therapies for cancer cells and microenvironment modulation. This approach could impact the way gastrointestinal cancers are managed. Abstract Gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas are one of the world’s deadliest cancers. Cancer stem cells and the tissue microenvironment are highly regulated by cell and molecular mechanisms. Cancer stem cells are essential for maintenance and progression and are associated with resistance to conventional treatments. This article reviews the current knowledge of the role of the microenvironment during the primary establishment of gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas in the stomach, colon, and rectum and its relationship with cancer stem cells. We also describe novel developments in cancer therapeutics, such as targeted therapy, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different treatments for improving gastrointestinal cancer prognosis.
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22
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Novel Systemic Treatment Modalities Including Immunotherapy and Molecular Targeted Therapy for Recurrent and Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147889. [PMID: 35887235 PMCID: PMC9320653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are the sixth most common cancers worldwide. More than half of patients with HNSCC eventually experience disease recurrence and/or metastasis, which can threaten their long-term survival. HNSCCs located in the oral cavity and larynx are usually associated with tobacco and/or alcohol use, whereas human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV16 infection, is increasingly recognized as a cause of oropharyngeal HNSCC. Despite clinical, histologic, and molecular differences between HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCCs, current treatment approaches are the same. For recurrent disease, these strategies include chemotherapy, immunotherapy with PD-1-inhibitors, or a monoclonal antibody, cetuximab, that targets epidermal growth factor; these therapies can be administered either as single agents or in combination. However, these treatment strategies carry a high risk of toxic side effects; therefore, more effective and less toxic treatments are needed. The landscape of HNSCC therapy is changing significantly; numerous clinical trials are underway to test novel therapeutic options like adaptive cellular therapy, antibody-drug conjugates, new targeted therapy agents, novel immunotherapy combinations, and therapeutic vaccines. This review helps in understanding the various developments in HNSCC therapy and sheds light on the path ahead in terms of further research in this field.
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23
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Wu J, Wang L, Xu J. The role of pyroptosis in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment. Biomark Res 2022; 10:45. [PMID: 35739593 PMCID: PMC9229852 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a key role in immunosuppression in cancer, which results in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, and contributes to insensitivity to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Understanding the mechanism of TIME formation is critical for overcoming cancer. Pyroptosis exerts a dual role in modulating the TIME. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of pyroptosis in modulating the TIME and the potential application of targeted pyroptosis therapy in the clinic. Several treatments targeting pyroptosis have been developed; however, the majority of treatments are still in preclinical studies. Only a few agents have been used in clinic, but the outcomes are unsatisfactory. More studies are necessary to determine the role of pyroptosis in cancer, and more research is required to realize the application of treatments targeting pyroptosis in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxiang Wu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jianwei Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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24
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Hua Y, Yuan X, Shen YH, Wang J, Azeem W, Yang S, Gade A, Lellahi SM, Øyan AM, Ke X, Zhang WD, Kalland KH. Novel STAT3 Inhibitors Targeting STAT3 Dimerization by Binding to the STAT3 SH2 Domain. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:836724. [PMID: 35712699 PMCID: PMC9196127 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.836724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our drug discovery model has identified two novel STAT3 SH2 domain inhibitors 323–1 and 323–2 (delavatine A stereoisomers) in a series of experiments. In silico computational modeling, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), and fluorescence polarization (FP) assays altogether determined that 323–1 and 323–2 directly target the STAT3 SH2 domain and inhibited both phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated STAT3 dimerization. Computational docking predicted that compound 323s bind to three subpockets of the STAT3 SH2 domain. The 323s inhibition of STAT3 dimerization was more potent than the commercial STAT3 SH2 domain inhibitor S3I-201 in the co-immunoprecipitation assay, correlating with computational docking data. The fluorescence polarization assay further confirmed that the compound 323s target the STAT3 SH2 domain by competitively abrogating the interaction between STAT3 and the SH2-binding peptide GpYLPQTV. Compared with S3I-201, the 323 compounds exhibited stronger inhibition of STAT3 and reduced the level of IL-6-stimulated phosphorylation of STAT3 (Tyr705) in LNCaP cells over the phosphorylation of STAT1 (Tyr701) induced by IFN-ɣ in PC3 cells or the phosphorylation of STAT1 (Ser727) in DU145 cells. Both compounds downregulated STAT3 target genes MCL1 and cyclin D1. Thus, the two compounds are promising lead compounds for the treatment of cancers with hyper-activated STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Hua
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- *Correspondence: Yaping Hua, ; Wei-dong Zhang, ; Karl-Henning Kalland,
| | - Xing Yuan
- Department of Phytochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-heng Shen
- Department of Phytochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- Department of Phytochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Waqas Azeem
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Helse Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Shuo Yang
- School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Alexandra Gade
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Seyed Mohammad Lellahi
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anne Margrete Øyan
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Helse Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xisong Ke
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-dong Zhang
- Department of Phytochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yaping Hua, ; Wei-dong Zhang, ; Karl-Henning Kalland,
| | - Karl-Henning Kalland
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Helse Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- *Correspondence: Yaping Hua, ; Wei-dong Zhang, ; Karl-Henning Kalland,
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25
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Kast RE, Alfieri A, Assi HI, Burns TC, Elyamany AM, Gonzalez-Cao M, Karpel-Massler G, Marosi C, Salacz ME, Sardi I, Van Vlierberghe P, Zaghloul MS, Halatsch ME. MDACT: A New Principle of Adjunctive Cancer Treatment Using Combinations of Multiple Repurposed Drugs, with an Example Regimen. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2563. [PMID: 35626167 PMCID: PMC9140192 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In part one of this two-part paper, we present eight principles that we believe must be considered for more effective treatment of the currently incurable cancers. These are addressed by multidrug adjunctive cancer treatment (MDACT), which uses multiple repurposed non-oncology drugs, not primarily to kill malignant cells, but rather to reduce the malignant cells' growth drives. Previous multidrug regimens have used MDACT principles, e.g., the CUSP9v3 glioblastoma treatment. MDACT is an amalgam of (1) the principle that to be effective in stopping a chain of events leading to an undesired outcome, one must break more than one link; (2) the principle of Palmer et al. of achieving fractional cancer cell killing via multiple drugs with independent mechanisms of action; (3) the principle of shaping versus decisive operations, both being required for successful cancer treatment; (4) an idea adapted from Chow et al., of using multiple cytotoxic medicines at low doses; (5) the idea behind CUSP9v3, using many non-oncology CNS-penetrant drugs from general medical practice, repurposed to block tumor survival paths; (6) the concept from chess that every move creates weaknesses and strengths; (7) the principle of mass-by adding force to a given effort, the chances of achieving the goal increase; and (8) the principle of blocking parallel signaling pathways. Part two gives an example MDACT regimen, gMDACT, which uses six repurposed drugs-celecoxib, dapsone, disulfiram, itraconazole, pyrimethamine, and telmisartan-to interfere with growth-driving elements common to cholangiocarcinoma, colon adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma, and non-small-cell lung cancer. gMDACT is another example of-not a replacement for-previous multidrug regimens already in clinical use, such as CUSP9v3. MDACT regimens are designed as adjuvants to be used with cytotoxic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Alfieri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland; (A.A.); (M.-E.H.)
| | - Hazem I. Assi
- Naef K. Basile Cancer Center, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1100, Lebanon;
| | - Terry C. Burns
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| | - Ashraf M. Elyamany
- Oncology Unit, Hemato-Oncology Department, SECI Assiut University Egypt/King Saud Medical City, Riyadh 7790, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Maria Gonzalez-Cao
- Translational Cancer Research Unit, Dexeus University Hospital, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | | | - Christine Marosi
- Clinical Division of Medical Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Michael E. Salacz
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Iacopo Sardi
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Mohamed S. Zaghloul
- Children’s Cancer Hospital & National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11796, Egypt;
| | - Marc-Eric Halatsch
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland; (A.A.); (M.-E.H.)
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26
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Xie Y, Sun R, Gao L, Guan J, Wang J, Bell A, Zhu J, Zhang M, Xu M, Lu P, Cai X, Ren S, Xu P, Monga SP, Ma X, Yang D, Liu Y, Lu B, Xie W. Chronic Activation of LXRα Sensitizes Mice to Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:1123-1139. [PMID: 34981658 PMCID: PMC9035576 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The oxysterol receptor liver X receptor (LXR) is a nuclear receptor best known for its function in the regulation of lipid and cholesterol metabolism. LXRs, both the α and β isoforms, have been suggested as potential therapeutic targets for several cancer types. However, there was a lack of report on whether and how LXRα plays a role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the current study, we found that systemic activation of LXRα in the VP-LXRα knock-in (LXRαKI) mice or hepatocyte-specific activation of LXRα in the VP-LXRα transgenic mice sensitized mice to liver tumorigenesis induced by the combined treatment of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 3,3',5,5'-tetrachloro-1,4-bis (pyridyloxy) benzene (TCPOBOP). Mechanistically, the LXRα-responsive up-regulation of interleukin-6 (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway and the complement system, and down-regulation of bile acid metabolism, may have contributed to increased tumorigenesis. Accumulations of secondary bile acids and oxysterols were found in both the serum and liver tissue of LXRα activated mice. We also observed an induction of monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells accompanied by down-regulation of dendritic cells and cytotoxic T cells in DEN/TCPOBOP-induced liver tumors, indicating that chronic activation of LXRα may have led to the activation of innate immune suppression. The HCC sensitizing effect of LXRα activation was also observed in the c-MYC driven HCC model. Conclusion: Our results indicated that chronic activation of LXRα promotes HCC, at least in part, by promoting innate immune suppressor as a result of accumulation of oxysterols, as well as up-regulation of the IL-6/Janus kinase/STAT3 signaling and complement pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xie
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Runzi Sun
- Department of ImmunologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Li Gao
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
- Department of GastroenterologyPeking University People’s HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Jibin Guan
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Jingyuan Wang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Aaron Bell
- Division of Experimental PathologyDepartment of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Junjie Zhu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Min Zhang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Meishu Xu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Peipei Lu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Xinran Cai
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Songrong Ren
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Pengfei Xu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Satdarshan P. Monga
- Division of Experimental PathologyDepartment of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPAUSA
| | - Xiaochao Ma
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Da Yang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Yulan Liu
- Department of GastroenterologyPeking University People’s HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Binfeng Lu
- Department of ImmunologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - Wen Xie
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical BiologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
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27
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Geh D, Leslie J, Rumney R, Reeves HL, Bird TG, Mann DA. Neutrophils as potential therapeutic targets in hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 19:257-273. [PMID: 35022608 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-021-00568-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The success of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab treatment contributed to a shift in systemic therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) towards combinations that include cancer immunotherapeutic agents. Thus far, the principal focus of cancer immunotherapy has been on interrupting immune checkpoints that suppress antitumour lymphocytes. As well as lymphocytes, the HCC environment includes numerous other immune cell types, among which neutrophils are emerging as an important contributor to the pathogenesis of HCC. A growing body of evidence supports neutrophils as key mediators of the immunosuppressive environment in which some cancers develop, as well as drivers of tumour progression. If neutrophils have a similar role in HCC, approaches that target or manipulate neutrophils might have therapeutic benefits, potentially including sensitization of tumours to conventional immunotherapy. Several neutrophil-directed therapies for patients with HCC (and other cancers) are now entering clinical trials. This Review outlines the evidence in support of neutrophils as drivers of HCC and details their mechanistic roles in development, progression and metastasis, highlighting the reasons that neutrophils are well worth investigating despite the challenges associated with studying them. Neutrophil-modulating anticancer therapies entering clinical trials are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Geh
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jack Leslie
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rob Rumney
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Helen L Reeves
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- The Liver Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Multidisciplinary Team, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Thomas G Bird
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Derek A Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Bitsch R, Kurzay A, Özbay Kurt F, De La Torre C, Lasser S, Lepper A, Siebenmorgen A, Müller V, Altevogt P, Utikal J, Umansky V. STAT3 inhibitor Napabucasin abrogates MDSC immunosuppressive capacity and prolongs survival of melanoma-bearing mice. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2021-004384. [PMID: 35301236 PMCID: PMC8932276 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent a negative prognostic factor in malignant melanoma. These cells are generated under chronic inflammatory conditions typical of cancer. The transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) orchestrates MDSC accumulation and acquisition of immunosuppressive properties. Here we studied STAT3 inhibition by Napabucasin as a way to block MDSC accumulation and activity and its potential to treat malignant melanoma. Methods In vitro generated murine MDSC and primary MDSC from melanoma-bearing mice were used to investigate the effects of Napabucasin on MDSC in vitro. The RET transgenic mouse model of malignant melanoma was used to examine Napabucasin therapy efficiency and its underlying mechanisms in vivo. Furthermore, STAT3 activation and its correlation with survival were explored in MDSC from 19 patients with malignant melanoma and human in vitro generated monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cell (M-MDSC) were used to evaluate the effects of Napabucasin. Results Napabucasin was able to abrogate the capacity of murine MDSC to suppress CD8+ T-cell proliferation. The STAT3 inhibitor induced apoptosis in murine MDSC, significantly increased expression of molecules associated with antigen processing and presentation, as well as slightly decreased expression of immunosuppressive factors on these cells. RET transgenic mice treated with Napabucasin showed prolonged survival accompanied by a strong accumulation of tumor-infiltrating antigen-presenting cells and activation of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Interestingly, patients with malignant melanoma with high expression of activated STAT3 in circulating M-MDSC showed significantly worse progression-free survival (PFS) than patients with low levels of activated STAT3. In addition, Napabucasin was able to abrogate suppressive capacity of human in vitro generated M-MDSC. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that STAT3 inhibitor Napabucasin completely abrogated the immunosuppressive capacity of murine MDSC and human M-MDSC and improved melanoma-bearing mouse survival. Moreover, patients with malignant melanoma with high expression levels of activated STAT3 in M-MDSC displayed shorter PFS, indicating its role as a promising therapeutic target in patients with malignant melanoma and a predictive marker for their clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Bitsch
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Annina Kurzay
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Feyza Özbay Kurt
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carolina De La Torre
- NGS Core Facility, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Samantha Lasser
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alisa Lepper
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alina Siebenmorgen
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Verena Müller
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Altevogt
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Viktor Umansky
- Skin Cancer Unit/ Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany .,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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29
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Adamus T, Hung CY, Yu C, Kang E, Hammad M, Flores L, Nechaev S, Zhang Q, Gonzaga JM, Muthaiyah K, Swiderski P, Aboody KS, Kortylewski M. Glioma-targeted delivery of exosome-encapsulated antisense oligonucleotides using neural stem cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 27:611-620. [PMID: 35036069 PMCID: PMC8752899 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tropism of neural stem cells (NSCs) to hypoxic tumor areas provides an opportunity for the drug delivery. Here, we demonstrate that NSCs effectively transport antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) targeting oncogenic and tolerogenic signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) protein into glioma microenvironment. To enable spontaneous, scavenger receptor-mediated endocytosis by NSCs, we used previously described CpG-STAT3ASO conjugates. Following uptake and endosomal escape, CpG-STAT3ASO colocalized with CD63+ vesicles and later with CD63+CD81+ exosomes. Over 3 days, NSCs secreted exosomes loaded up to 80% with CpG-STAT3ASO. Compared to native NSC exosomes, the CpG-STAT3ASO-loaded exosomes potently stimulated immune activity of human dendritic cells or mouse macrophages, inducing nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling and interleukin-12 (IL-12) production. Using orthotopic GL261 tumors, we confirmed that NSC-mediated delivery improved oligonucleotide transfer from a distant injection site into the glioma microenvironment versus naked oligonucleotides. Correspondingly, the NSC-delivered CpG-STAT3ASO enhanced activation of glioma-associated microglia. Finally, we demonstrated that NSC-mediated CpG-STAT3ASO delivery resulted in enhanced antitumor effects against GL261 glioma in mice. Peritumoral injections of 5 × 105 NSCs loaded ex vivo with CpG-STAT3ASO inhibited subcutaneous tumor growth more effectively than the equivalent amount of oligonucleotide alone. Based on these results, we anticipate that NSCs and NSC-derived exosomes will provide a clinically relevant strategy to improve delivery and safety of oligonucleotide therapeutics for glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Adamus
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Chia-Yang Hung
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Chunsong Yu
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Elaine Kang
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Mohamed Hammad
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Linda Flores
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Sergey Nechaev
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Qifang Zhang
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Joanna Marie Gonzaga
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Kokilah Muthaiyah
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Laboratory, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Piotr Swiderski
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Laboratory, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Karen S Aboody
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Marcin Kortylewski
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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30
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Shi H, Qin Y, Tian Y, Wang J, Wang Y, Wang Z, Lv J. Interleukin-1beta triggers the expansion of circulating granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cell subset dependent on Erk1/2 activation. Immunobiology 2021; 227:152165. [PMID: 34936966 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152165] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer development and progression. Although interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) has been observed to be associated with an general immune suppression of T cell response and the immunosuppression strongly correlates with accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), the relationship and mechanism between MDSCs expansion and IL-1β expression remain ambiguous. Here, we showed that the concentration of IL-1β was highly correlated with G-MDSC subset, rather than mo-MDSC subset. Recombinant IL-1β increased the percentage of G-MDSCs in the blood of tumor-bearing mice, and IL-1Ra attenuated the accumulation of G-MDSCs in the tumor-bearing mice. In addition, the IL-1β-overexpressing B16F10 cells induced higher level of G-MDSCs compared with wild-type B16F10 cells. Moreover, we found that the accumulation of G-MDSCs induced by IL-1β was dependent on the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2). Collectively, these findings show a novel role of IL-1β in G-MDSCs accumulation by activating Erk1/2, which suggests that IL-1β elimination or Erk1/2 signaling blockade could decrease G-MDSCs generation and thereby improve host immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Shi
- Clinical Laboratory, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China.
| | - Yan Qin
- Clinical Laboratory, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Yufeng Tian
- Clinical Laboratory, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Jiaan Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Medical Image, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Lv
- Clinical Laboratory, The Rizhao People's Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China.
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31
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Ling Z, Yang C, Tan J, Dou C, Chen Y. Beyond immunosuppressive effects: dual roles of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in bone-related diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7161-7183. [PMID: 34635950 PMCID: PMC11072300 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03966-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immature myeloid cells (IMCs) with immunosuppressive functions, whereas IMCs originally differentiate into granulocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs) to participate in innate immunity under steady-state conditions. At present, difficulties remain in identifying MDSCs due to lacking of specific biomarkers. To make identification of MDSCs accurately, it also needs to be determined whether having immunosuppressive functions. MDSCs play crucial roles in anti-tumor, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Meanwhile, MDSCs could make close interaction with osteoclasts, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and other stromal cells within microenvironment of bone and joint, and thereby contributing to poor prognosis of bone-related diseases such as cancer-related bone metastasis, osteosarcoma (OS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), and orthopedic trauma. In addition, MDSCs have been shown to participate in the procedure of bone repair. In this review, we have summarized the function of MDSCs in cancer-related bone metastasis, the interaction with stromal cells within the bone microenvironment as well as joint microenvironment, and the critical role of MDSCs in bone repair. Besides, the promising value of MDSCs in the treatment for bone-related diseases is also well discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguo Ling
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chuan Yang
- Department of Biomedical Materials Science, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jiulin Tan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ce Dou
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yueqi Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
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32
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Hinkle L, Liu Y, Meng C, Chen Z, Mai J, Zhang L, Xu Y, Pan PY, Chen SH, Shen H. The Sympathetic Nervous System Modulates Cancer Vaccine Activity through Monocyte-Derived Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 207:3131-3140. [PMID: 34772699 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is an important regulator of immune cell function during homeostasis and states of inflammation. Recently, the SNS has been found to bolster tumor growth and impair the development of antitumor immunity. However, it is unclear whether the SNS can modulate APC function. Here, we investigated the effects of SNS signaling in murine monocyte-derived macrophages (moMФ) and dendritic cells (DCs) and further combined the nonspecific β-blocker propranolol with a peptide cancer vaccine for the treatment of melanoma in mice. We report that norepinephrine treatment dramatically altered moMФ cytokine production, whereas DCs were unresponsive to norepinephrine and critically lack β2-adrenergic receptor expression. In addition, we show that propranolol plus cancer vaccine enhanced peripheral DC maturation, increased the intratumor proportion of effector CD8+ T cells, and decreased the presence of intratumor PD-L1+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Furthermore, this combination dramatically reduced tumor growth compared with vaccination alone. Taken together, these results offer insights into the cell-specific manner by which the SNS regulates the APC immune compartment and provide strong support for the use of propranolol in combination with cancer vaccines to improve patient response rates and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Hinkle
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX.,Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX
| | - Yongbin Liu
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Chaoyang Meng
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX.,Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX.,Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Junhua Mai
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Licheng Zhang
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX; and
| | - Yitian Xu
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX; and
| | - Ping-Ying Pan
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX; and.,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Shu-Hsia Chen
- Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX; and.,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Haifa Shen
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX; .,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
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33
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Grover A, Sanseviero E, Timosenko E, Gabrilovich DI. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: A Propitious Road to Clinic. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:2693-2706. [PMID: 34635571 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are important regulators of immune responses in cancer. They represent a relatively stable form of pathologic activation of neutrophils and monocytes and are characterized by distinct transcriptional, biochemical, functional, and phenotypical features. The close association of MDSCs with clinical outcomes in cancer suggests that these cells can be an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. However, the complex nature of MDSC biology represents a substantial challenge for the development of selective therapies. Here, we discuss the mechanisms regulating MDSC development and fate and recent research advances that have demonstrated opportunities for therapeutic regulation of these cells. SIGNIFICANCE: MDSCs are attractive therapeutic targets because of their close association with negative clinical outcomes in cancer and established biology as potent immunosuppressive cells. However, the complex nature of MDSC biology presents a substantial challenge for therapeutic targeting. In this review, we discuss those challenges and possible solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Grover
- AstraZeneca, ICC, Early Oncology, R&D, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Elina Timosenko
- AstraZeneca, ICC, Early Oncology, R&D, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Ware MB, El-Rayes BF, Lesinski GB. Mirage or long-awaited oasis: reinvigorating T-cell responses in pancreatic cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-001100. [PMID: 32843336 PMCID: PMC7449491 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is plagued by a dismal 5-year survival rate, early onset of metastasis and limited efficacy of systemic therapies. This scenario highlights the need to fervently pursue novel therapeutic strategies to treat this disease. Recent research has uncovered complicated dynamics within the tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC. An abundant stroma provides a framework for interactions between cancer-associated fibroblasts, suppressive myeloid cells and regulatory lymphocytes, which together create an inhospitable environment for adaptive immune responses. This accounts for the poor infiltration and exhausted phenotypes of effector T cells within pancreatic tumors. Innovative studies in genetically engineered mouse models have established that with appropriate pharmacological modulation of suppressive elements in the TME, T cells can be prompted to regress pancreatic tumors. In light of this knowledge, innovative combinatorial strategies involving immunotherapy and targeted therapies working in concert are rapidly emerging. This review will highlight recent advances in the field related to immune suppression in PDAC, emerging preclinical data and rationale for ongoing immunotherapy clinical trials. In particular, we draw attention to foundational findings involving T-cell activity in PDAC and encourage development of novel therapeutics to improve T-cell responses in this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brandon Ware
- Hematology and Oncology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Bassel F El-Rayes
- Hematology and Oncology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gregory B Lesinski
- Hematology and Oncology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Zhou XQ, Mao XM, Fan R, Li SY, Shang J, Zhang T, Li RH, Li HQ, Hui Y, Chen WH, Wang ZX, Shen DY. Trilobolide-6-O-isobutyrate suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis through inhibition of IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5741-5753. [PMID: 34355433 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Currently available therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with a high morbidity and high mortality, are only marginally effective and with sharp adverse side effects, which makes it compulsory to explore novel and more effective anticancer molecules. Chinese medicinal herbs exhibited prominent anticancer effects and were applied to supplement clinical cancer treatment. Here, we reported a compound, trilobolide-6-O-isobutyrate (TBB), isolated from the flowers of Wedelia trilobata with a markedly cytotoxic effect on HCC cells. We found that TBB time- and dose-dependently inhibited HCC cells' growth and colony formation in vitro. Moreover, TBB induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, mitochondrial caspase-dependent apoptosis, and suppressed migration and invasion, as well as the glycolysis of HCC cells. Mechanistically, our data indicated that TBB inhibited the STAT3 pathway activation by directly interacting with the TYR 640/657 sites of the STAT3 protein and decreasing the level of p-STAT3. TBB also regulated the expression of PCNA, Ki67, Cyclin B1, Cyclin E, Bax, Bcl2, MMP2/9, and PGK1 through the inhibition of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Lastly, we confirmed that TBB effectively eliminated tumor growth without causing overt toxicity to healthy tissues in the xenograft tumor model. The exploration of anticancer activity and the underlying mechanism of TBB suggested its usage as a promising chemotherapeutic agent for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Qiao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resources Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Mao
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Rui Fan
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Si-Yang Li
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Rui-Han Li
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hui-Qi Li
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yang Hui
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resources Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Wen-Hao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resources Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Zhan-Xiang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Dong-Yan Shen
- Xiamen Cell Therapy Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Pore N, Wu S, Standifer N, Jure-Kunkel M, de Los Reyes M, Shrestha Y, Halpin R, Rothstein R, Mulgrew K, Blackmore S, Martin P, Meekin J, Griffin M, Bisha I, Proia TA, Miragaia RJ, Herbst R, Gupta A, Abdullah SE, Raja R, Frigault MM, Barrett JC, Dennis PA, Ascierto ML, Oberst MD. Resistance to durvalumab and durvalumab plus tremelimumab is associated with functional STK11 mutations in non-small-cell lung cancer patients and is reversed by STAT3 knockdown. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:2828-2845. [PMID: 34230008 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-20-1543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the STK11 (LKB1) gene regulate resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. This study evaluated this association in patients with nonsquamous non-small-cell lung cancer enrolled in three Phase 1/2 trials. STK11 mutations were associated with resistance to the anti-PD-L1 antibody durvalumab (alone/with the anti-CTLA-4 antibody tremelimumab) independently of KRAS mutational status, highlighting STK11 as a potential driver of resistance to checkpoint blockade. Retrospective assessments of tumor tissue, whole blood and serum revealed a unique immune phenotype in patients with STK11 mutations, with increased expression of markers associated with neutrophils (i.e. CXCL2, IL6), Th17 contexture (i.e. IL17A) and immune checkpoints. Associated changes were observed in the periphery. Reduction of STAT3 in the tumor microenvironment using an antisense oligonucleotide reversed immunotherapy resistance in preclinical STK11 knockout models. These results suggest that STK11 mutations may hinder response to checkpoint blockade through mechanisms including suppressive myeloid cell biology, which could be reversed by STAT3-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Song Wu
- AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland
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37
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Lu Y, Ng AHC, Chow FE, Everson RG, Helmink BA, Tetzlaff MT, Thakur R, Wargo JA, Cloughesy TF, Prins RM, Heath JR. Resolution of tissue signatures of therapy response in patients with recurrent GBM treated with neoadjuvant anti-PD1. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4031. [PMID: 34188042 PMCID: PMC8241935 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24293-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The response of patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme to neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade has been challenging to interpret due to the inter-patient and intra-tumor heterogeneity. We report on a comparative analysis of tumor tissues collected from patients with recurrent glioblastoma and high-risk melanoma, both treated with neoadjuvant checkpoint blockade. We develop a framework that uses multiplex spatial protein profiling, machine learning-based image analysis, and data-driven computational models to investigate the pathophysiological and molecular factors within the tumor microenvironment that influence treatment response. Using melanoma to guide the interpretation of glioblastoma analyses, we interrogate the protein expression in microscopic compartments of tumors, and determine the correlates of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, tumor growth, treatment response, and immune cell-cell interaction. This work reveals similarities shared between glioblastoma and melanoma, immunosuppressive factors that are unique to the glioblastoma microenvironment, and potential co-targets for enhancing the efficacy of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Lu
- grid.64212.330000 0004 0463 2320Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Alphonsus H. C. Ng
- grid.64212.330000 0004 0463 2320Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Frances E. Chow
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medical and Molecular Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Richard G. Everson
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medical and Molecular Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Beth A. Helmink
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Michael T. Tetzlaff
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Rohit Thakur
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Jennifer A. Wargo
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Timothy F. Cloughesy
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medical and Molecular Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Robert M. Prins
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medical and Molecular Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - James R. Heath
- grid.64212.330000 0004 0463 2320Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA USA
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38
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Chaudhary R, Morris RJ, Steinson E. The multifactorial roles of microglia and macrophages in the maintenance and progression of glioblastoma. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 357:577633. [PMID: 34153803 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The functional characteristics of glial cells, in particular microglia, have attained considerable importance in several diseases, including glioblastoma, the most hostile and malignant type of intracranial tumor. Microglia performs a highly significant role in the brain's inflammatory response mechanism. They exhibit anti-tumor properties via phagocytosis and the activation of a number of different cytotoxic substances. Some tumor-derived factors, however, transform these microglial cells into immunosuppressive and tumor-supportive, facilitating survival and progression of tumorigenic cells. Glioma-associated microglia and/or macrophages (GAMs) accounts for a large proportion of glioma infiltrating cells. Once within the tumor, GAMs exhibit a distinct phenotype of initiation that subsequently supports the growth and development of tumorigenic cells, angiogenesis and stimulates the infiltration of healthy brain regions. Interventions that suppress or prohibit the induction of GAMs at the tumor site or attenuate their immunological activities accommodating anti-tumor actions are likely to exert positive impact on glioblastoma treatment. In the present paper, we aim to summarize the most recent knowledge of microglia and its physiology, as well as include a very brief description of different molecular factors involved in microglia and glioblastoma interplay. We further address some of the major signaling pathways that regulate the baseline motility of glioblastoma progression. Finally, we discussed a number of therapeutic approaches regarding glioblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishabh Chaudhary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, India.
| | - Rhianna J Morris
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3QT, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Steinson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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39
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Luque-Campos N, Bustamante-Barrientos FA, Pradenas C, García C, Araya MJ, Bohaud C, Contreras-López R, Elizondo-Vega R, Djouad F, Luz-Crawford P, Vega-Letter AM. The Macrophage Response Is Driven by Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Mediated Metabolic Reprogramming. Front Immunol 2021; 12:624746. [PMID: 34149687 PMCID: PMC8213396 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.624746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent adult stromal cells widely studied for their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. They are capable of modulating macrophage plasticity depending on various microenvironmental signals. Current studies have shown that metabolic changes can also affect macrophage fate and function. Indeed, changes in the environment prompt phenotype change. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss how MSCs orchestrate macrophage’s metabolic plasticity and the impact on their function. An improved understanding of the crosstalk between macrophages and MSCs will improve our knowledge of MSC’s therapeutic potential in the context of inflammatory diseases, cancer, and tissue repair processes in which macrophages are pivotal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noymar Luque-Campos
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Programa de Doctorado en Biomedicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Felipe A Bustamante-Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Pradenas
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cynthia García
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - María Jesús Araya
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Roberto Elizondo-Vega
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular, Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | | | - Patricia Luz-Crawford
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ana María Vega-Letter
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Cells for Cells, Regenero, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile.,Laboratory of Nano-Regenerative Medicine, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
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40
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Andersen MN, Andersen NF, Lauridsen KL, Etzerodt A, Sorensen BS, Abildgaard N, Plesner T, Hokland M, Møller HJ. STAT3 is over-activated within CD163 pos bone marrow macrophages in both Multiple Myeloma and the benign pre-condition MGUS. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2021; 71:177-187. [PMID: 34061243 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-021-02952-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) support cancer cell survival and suppress anti-tumour immunity. Tumour infiltration by CD163pos TAMs is associated with poor outcome in several human malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM). Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is over-activated in human cancers, and specifically within TAMs activation of STAT3 may induce an immunosuppressive (M2-like) phenotype. Therefore, STAT3-inhibition in TAMs may be a future therapeutic strategy.We investigated TAM markers CD163, CD206, and activated STAT3 (pSTAT3) in patients with MGUS (n = 32) and MM (n = 45), as well as healthy controls (HCs, n = 13).Blood levels of the macrophage biomarkers sCD163 and sCD206, and circulating cytokines, as well as bone marrow mRNA expression of CD163 and CD206, were generally increased in MGUS and MM patients, compared to HCs, but to highly similar levels. By immunohistochemistry, bone marrow levels of pSTAT3 were increased specifically within CD163pos cells in both MGUS and MM patients.In conclusion, macrophage-related inflammatory changes, including activation of STAT3, were present already at the MGUS stage, at similar levels as in MM. Specific increase in pSTAT3 levels within CD163pos cells supports that the CD163 scavenger receptor may be a useful target for future delivery of STAT3-inhibitory drugs to TAMs in MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten N Andersen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark. .,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark. .,Department of Hematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Niels F Andersen
- Department of Hematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Anders Etzerodt
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Boe S Sorensen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Niels Abildgaard
- Department of Hematology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Trine Plesner
- Department of Histopathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Holger J Møller
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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41
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Novel Target Opportunities in Non-Metastatic Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102426. [PMID: 34067832 PMCID: PMC8157020 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nearly one third of men will incur biochemical recurrence after treatment for localized prostate cancer. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the therapeutic mainstay; however, some patients will transition to a castrate resistant state (castrate resistant prostate cancer, CRPC). Subjects with CRPC may develop symptomatic metastatic disease (mCRPC) and incur mortality several years later. Prior to metastatic disease, however, men acquire non-metastatic CRPC (nmCRPC) which lends the unique opportunity for intervention to delay disease progression and symptoms. This review addresses current therapies for nmCRPC, as well as novel therapeutics and pathway strategies targeting men with nmCRPC.
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42
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Claudin-Low Breast Cancer Inflammatory Signatures Support Polarization of M1-Like Macrophages with Protumoral Activity. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092248. [PMID: 34067089 PMCID: PMC8125772 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that triple-negative breast cancer (BRCA) cells overexpress the cytokines GM-CSF, G-CSF, MCP-1, and RANTES, and when monocytes were 3-D co-cultured with them, M1-like macrophages were generated with the ability to induce aggressive features in luminal BRCA cell lines. These include upregulation of mesenchymal and stemness markers and invasion. In this study, we stimulated peripheral blood monocytes with the four cytokines and confirmed their capacity to generate protumoral M1-like macrophages. Using the METABRIC BRCA database, we observed that GM-CSF, MCP-1, and RANTES are associated with triple-negative BRCA and reduced overall survival, particularly in patients under 55 years of age. We propose an extended M1-like macrophage proinflammatory signature connected with these three cytokines. We found that the extended M1-like macrophage signature coexists with monocyte/macrophage, Th1 immune response, and immunosuppressive signatures, and all are enriched in claudin-low BRCA samples, and correlate with reduced patient overall survival. Furthermore, we observed that all these signatures are also present in mesenchymal carcinomas of the colon (COAD) and bladder (BLCA). The claudin-low tumor subtype has an adverse clinical outcome and remains poorly understood. This study places M1 macrophages as potential protumoral drivers in already established cancers, and as potential contributors to claudin-low aggressiveness and poor prognosis.
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43
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Mandula JK, Rodriguez PC. Tumor-related stress regulates functional plasticity of MDSCs. Cell Immunol 2021; 363:104312. [PMID: 33652258 PMCID: PMC8026602 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) impair protective anti-tumor immunity and remain major obstacles that stymie the effectiveness of promising cancer therapies. Diverse tumor-derived stressors galvanize the differentiation, intra-tumoral expansion, and immunomodulatory function of MDSCs. These tumor-associated 'axes of stress' underwrite the immunosuppressive programming of MDSCs in cancer and contribute to the phenotypic/functional heterogeneity that characterize tumor-MDSCs. This review discusses various tumor-associated axes of stress that direct MDSC development, accumulation, and immunosuppressive function, as well as current strategies aimed at overcoming the detrimental impact of MDSCs in cancer. To better understand the constellation of signals directing MDSC biology, we herein summarize the pivotal roles, signaling mediators, and effects of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species-related stress, chronic inflammatory stress, hypoxia-linked stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, metabolic stress, and therapy-associated stress on MDSCs. Although therapeutic targeting of these processes remains mostly pre-clinical, intercepting signaling through the axes of stress could overcome MDSC-related immune suppression in tumor-bearing hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Mandula
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Paulo C Rodriguez
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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44
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Gregg JR, Thompson TC. Considering the potential for gene-based therapy in prostate cancer. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:170-184. [PMID: 33637962 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00431-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic gene manipulation has been at the forefront of popular scientific discussion and basic and clinical research for decades. Basic and clinical research applications of CRISPR-Cas9-based technologies and ongoing clinical trials in this area have demonstrated the potential of genome editing to cure human disease. Evaluation of research and clinical trials in gene therapy reveals a concentration of activity in prostate cancer research and practice. Multiple aspects of prostate cancer care - including anatomical considerations that enable direct tumour injections and sampling, the availability of preclinical immune-competent models and the delineation of tumour-related antigens that might provide targets for an induced immune system - make gene therapy an appealing treatment option for this common malignancy. Vaccine-based therapies that induce an immune response and new technologies exploiting CRISPR-Cas9-assisted approaches, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies, are very promising and are currently under investigation both in the laboratory and in the clinic. Although laboratory and preclinical advances have, thus far, not led to oncologically relevant outcomes in the clinic, future studies offer great promise for gene therapy to become established in prostate cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R Gregg
- Department of Urology and Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Timothy C Thompson
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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45
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Fultang N, Li X, Li T, Chen YH. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Differentiation in Cancer: Transcriptional Regulators and Enhanceosome-Mediated Mechanisms. Front Immunol 2021; 11:619253. [PMID: 33519825 PMCID: PMC7840597 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.619253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) are a sub-population of leukocytes that are important for carcinogenesis and cancer immunotherapy. During carcinogenesis or severe infections, inflammatory mediators induce MDSCs via aberrant differentiation of myeloid precursors. Although several transcription factors, including C/EBPβ, STAT3, c-Rel, STAT5, and IRF8, have been reported to regulate MDSC differentiation, none of them are specifically expressed in MDSCs. How these lineage-non-specific transcription factors specify MDSC differentiation in a lineage-specific manner is unclear. The recent discovery of the c-Rel−C/EBPβ enhanceosome in MDSCs may help explain these context-dependent roles. In this review, we examine several transcriptional regulators of MDSC differentiation, and discuss the concept of non-modular regulation of MDSC signature gene expression by transcription factors such as c-Rel and C/EBPß.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman Fultang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Xinyuan Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Youhai H Chen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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46
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Progress of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 134:111111. [PMID: 33352449 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of lung cancer account for first place all over the world. Lung cancer lacks early diagnostic biomarkers; lung cancer patients are usually diagnosed in both middle and advanced stages and have poor treatment outcomes. It is more important to find the first diagnostic tools for lung cancer with high specificity and sensitivity. Besides, exosomes are usually nanometer-sized bi-layered lipid vesicles formed and produced by various types of cells. As one of the main modes of intercellular communication, they can deliver multiple functional biomolecules, such as DNA, microRNAs, messenger RNA (mRNA), long non-coding RNA, and proteins, and the events as mentioned above affects different physiological processes of recipient cells. It has been reported that exosomes are involved in different types of cancer, including lung cancer. Various studies proved that exosomes are involved in multiple cancer processes such as cell proliferation, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and the tumor microenvironment in lung cancer. Tumor-derived exosomes (TEX) contain a variety of stimulatory and inhibitory factors involved in regulating immune response, which can affect the tumor microenvironment (TME) and thus participate in the formation and progression of lung cancer. This review's primary purpose to review the latest research progress of exosomes in diagnosing and treating lung cancer.
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47
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Venkatraman S, Meller J, Hongeng S, Tohtong R, Chutipongtanate S. Transcriptional Regulation of Cancer Immune Checkpoints: Emerging Strategies for Immunotherapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E735. [PMID: 33291616 PMCID: PMC7761936 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of immune evasion has gained a well-deserved eminence in cancer research by successfully developing a new class of therapeutics, immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, anti-PD-1 antibodies. By aiming at the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), these new therapeutics have advanced cancer treatment with notable increases in overall survival and tumor remission. However, recent reports reveal that 40-60% of patients fail to benefit from ICB therapy due to acquired resistance or tumor relapse. This resistance may stem from increased expression of co-inhibitory immune checkpoints or alterations in the tumor microenvironment that promotes immune suppression. Because these mechanisms are poorly elucidated, the transcription factors that regulate immune checkpoints, known as "master regulators", have garnered interest. These include AP-1, IRF-1, MYC, and STAT3, which are known to regulate PD/PD-L1 and CTLA-4. Identifying these and other potential master regulators as putative therapeutic targets or biomarkers can be facilitated by mining cancer literature, public datasets, and cancer genomics resources. In this review, we describe recent advances in master regulator identification and characterization of the mechanisms underlying immune checkpoints regulation, and discuss how these master regulators of immune checkpoint molecular expression can be targeted as a form of auxiliary therapeutic strategy to complement traditional immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Venkatraman
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Science Joint Program Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Jarek Meller
- Departments of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Rutaiwan Tohtong
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Science Joint Program Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Somchai Chutipongtanate
- Pediatric Translational Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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48
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Fallah J, Diaz-Montero CM, Rayman P, Wei W, Finke JH, Kim JS, Pavicic PG, Lamenza M, Dann P, Company D, Stephenson A, Campbell S, Haber G, Lee B, Mian O, Gilligan T, Garcia JA, Rini B, Ornstein MC, Grivas P. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Nonmetastatic Urothelial Carcinoma of Bladder Is Associated With Pathologic Complete Response and Overall Survival. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2020; 18:500-508. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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49
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Han J, Xu X, Liu Z, Li Z, Wu Y, Zuo D. Recent advances of molecular mechanisms of regulating PD-L1 expression in melanoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 88:106971. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Proia TA, Singh M, Woessner R, Carnevalli L, Bommakanti G, Magiera L, Srinivasan S, Grosskurth S, Collins M, Womack C, Griffin M, Ye M, Cantin S, Russell D, Xie M, Hughes A, Deng N, Mele DA, Fawell S, Barry S, Reimer C, Barrett JC, McCoon P. STAT3 Antisense Oligonucleotide Remodels the Suppressive Tumor Microenvironment to Enhance Immune Activation in Combination with Anti-PD-L1. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:6335-6349. [PMID: 32943458 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-1066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Danvatirsen is a therapeutic antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) that selectively targets STAT3 and has shown clinical activity in two phase I clinical studies. We interrogated the clinical mechanism of action using danvatirsen-treated patient samples and conducted back-translational studies to further elucidate its immunomodulatory mechanism of action. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Paired biopsies and blood samples from danvatirsen-treated patients were evaluated using immunohistochemistry and gene-expression analysis. To gain mechanistic insight, we used mass cytometry, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence analysis of CT26 tumors treated with a mouse surrogate STAT3 ASO, and human immune cells were treated in vitro with danvatirsen. RESULTS Within the tumors of treated patients, danvatirsen uptake was observed mainly in cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Gene expression analysis comparing baseline and on-treatment tumor samples showed increased expression of proinflammatory genes. In mouse models, STAT3 ASO demonstrated partial tumor growth inhibition and enhanced the antitumor activity when combined with anti-PD-L1. Immune profiling revealed reduced STAT3 protein in immune and stromal cells, and decreased suppressive cytokines correlating with increased proinflammatory macrophages and cytokine production. These changes led to enhanced T-cell abundance and function in combination with anti-PD-L1. CONCLUSIONS STAT3 ASO treatment reverses a suppressive TME and promotes proinflammatory gene expression changes in patients' tumors and mouse models. Preclinical data provide evidence that ASO-mediated inhibition of STAT3 in the immune compartment is sufficient to remodel the TME and enhance the activity of checkpoint blockade without direct STAT3 inhibition in tumor cells. Collectively, these data provide a rationale for testing this combination in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa A Proia
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Maneesh Singh
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | | | - Larissa Carnevalli
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gayathri Bommakanti
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Lukasz Magiera
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Srimathi Srinivasan
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | | | - Mike Collins
- Tufts University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Medford, Massachusetts
| | | | - Matthew Griffin
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Minwei Ye
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Susan Cantin
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Deanna Russell
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Mingchao Xie
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Adina Hughes
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Deanna A Mele
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Stephen Fawell
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Simon Barry
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Corinne Reimer
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - J Carl Barrett
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Patricia McCoon
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, Massachusetts.
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